President's Message:
Kelsey Parolini
2025-2026 SEAOC President
Throughout our careers, we each move through the profession not always realizing who is observing, who is being inspired, or who finds courage in the way we show up each day. Structural engineering is technical at its core, but the heart of our profession is people. Those who guide us, challenge us, and remind us why this work matters. I have been fortunate to cross paths with many engineers who have helped shape my journey.
During my university years, I often questioned whether structural engineering was the right path for me. Surrounded by classmates with construction experience or natural ties to the industry, I sometimes felt as though I was learning a foreign language while everyone else was already fluent. My academic advisor and structural engineering professor, Vicky May, played a pivotal role in keeping me on course. With patience, clarity, and encouragement, she gave me a model of leadership and mentorship that resonated deeply, especially in a male dominated department where finding a relatable role model was rare.
When I began practicing, working in a small firm within a small community, there were no other women engineers in my office. That absence made each encounter with successful women in our field especially meaningful. I still remember taking an in-person wood design review course for the SE with Kelly Cobeen - yes, the same Kelly Cobeen who co-authored the textbook that sat prominently on my bookshelf. Watching her navigate the day with confidence and grace, even when facing the infamous “gotcha” questions, gave me something to strive for. By that time, I was lecturing part-time at Cal Poly, and her example helped shape the instructor I hoped to become.
About eight years ago, I was invited to join the SEAOSC Communications Committee, then chaired by an up and coming engineer I had been told I “needed to get to know.” Saying yes introduced me to Maria Mohammed, and from that moment forward, our paths have continued to cross. Maria’s passion for communication and public speaking is undeniable. Watching her shine while hosting awards programs, presenting technical sessions, and recently representing our profession to the media as SEAOSC President has been inspiring. Her energy is something I channel whenever I am asked to step up and speak.
These mentors, colleagues, and friends remind me that none of us grows alone. Each of them, through their presence, their example, and their generosity, has shaped the engineer and leader I am today.
These stories and countless others underscore the value of SEAOC’s community: our association thrives because of the people who choose to engage, uplift, mentor, and inspire. The opportunities we have to learn from each other, whether through committee work, conventions, or informal moments of connection form the backbone of our organization.
As we move through 2026, I encourage you to reflect on the individuals who have guided your own journey. Celebrate them. Reach out to them. And just as importantly, be that presence for someone else. You may never know who is watching, who is learning, or who is quietly finding their way because of you. But I can promise you, it matters.
Thank you for being part of this community and for the ways you contribute, seen and unseen, to the future of our profession.
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