Starting new roles
Since November, I’ve stepped into two new roles: I am now the Editor-in-Chief of Structural Engineering International and serve as Vice President of the International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE). These appointments come with great responsibility and even greater opportunity to contribute to our field in new ways, and to reflect on how my own academic and professional path continues to evolve.
Taking the helm at Structural Engineering International means more engagement with the literature than ever before. It’s not just about managing the flood of papers coming it, but also about triaging along the lines of the scope of the journal, as well as keep an eye on the special issues under development, and striking the balance between Scientific Papers and Technical Reports. I have a fair amount of experience as the Editor-in-Chief of ACI Avances en Ciencias e Ingenierias, but both journals are very different and have different needs and goals. Being an editor demands a more critical eye, a sense of balance, and the ability to juggle many threads of technical discourse at once. It’s challenging, but also rewarding to see how diverse our field has become, and to play a part in shaping its future.
My new role as Vice President of IABSE represents a different kind of shift: one from technical work to leadership. For years, I’ve been actively involved in technical committees in various organizations in our field, where the focus was on specific topics, detailed discussions, and the development of technical documents and sessions at conferences. Now, on the Executive Committee, I need to think more strategically about the direction of the organization, about how to serve our global membership, how to advocate for our profession, and about how to support the next generation of engineers. It’s a broader lens, and one that requires both continuity and innovation.
Naturally, taking on these roles has prompted some reflection. Time is not infinite, and neither is my energy (even though the double espressos help keeping my energy levels high). While I’m enthusiastic about contributing to these leadership roles, I also realize I can’t just keep adding tasks on top of an already full schedule. So, I’ve been reassessing some of my other commitments so that I can give my best where it matters most and has the largest impact. Saying “no” top opportunities is never easy, especially when projects are interesting and meaningful. But I’m learning that sustainable engagement often means choosing depth over breadth.
Stepping into new roles comes with a learning curve, but it also brings a renewed sense of purpose and a chance to grow. These new responsibilities are not just titles; they are opportunities to serve, to shape, and to stay connected to the heart of our profession.
