Member Newsletter 

February 17, 2026

Newsletter

In This Issue

Announcements:

SE3 & NCSEA Survey

Events:

2/18 Delegated Design

2/28 Awards Gala

4/8 Project Showcase

Spotlight:

Embodied Carbon

Volunteer:

4/25 Rebuilding Together

Announcements

Make DC/VA/MD Count! 

SE3 & NCSEA Survey

There is still time to participate in the SE3 and NCSEA surveys--and SEA-MW wants your help!

These anonymous surveys take just 5-10 minutes and help shape industry data on workplace culture, compensation, and benefits. The Compensation and Benefits Study is widely used by firms to benchmark salaries and benefits, and participation from our region is down this year. Surveys close February 27.

Please take 5 minutes to participate and share the surveys within your firm.

Upcoming Events

February 18 | 5:30 p.m. | YMG

Delegated Design Series I (Hybrid)

Join SEA-MW Young Members Group (YMG) and Patuxent Engineering Group for an educational session focused on delegated structural design and its practical application across complex construction scenarios. This session will highlight Patuxent’s specialized work, including temporary structures, repair and renovation projects, support of excavation design, and the analysis and sequencing of demolition operations.

February 28 | 6 p.m. | Gala

SEA-MW's Annual Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards

Join SEA-MW on February 28th for its 20th annual Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards Gala to recognize outstanding achievements of DC region structural engineering firms. This year's gala will be held at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Washington, DC. Proceeds from the gala support SEA-MW's scholarships as well as other programming throughout the year. 

April 8 | 6 p.m. | Gala Showcase & Member Meeting

SEA-MW Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards:

Finalist Project Showcase

SAVE THE DATE!  Join us for a lightning round of presentations by SEA-MW Award finalists, followed by an in-depth audience-driven discussion with the engineers behind these standout projects.  Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly and ask questions on the engineering challenges, design approaches, and solutions that led to each project's recognition.  Details coming soon!

Spotlight on Sustainability - New Feature!

Taking a Look at Embodied Carbon

It’s no secret that buildings account for 40% of global greenhouse emissions; 28% from building operations and 12% from embodied carbon in materials. Yet, while many decarbonization efforts have been implemented in reducing operational carbon through energy-efficient design, embodied carbon is often overlooked. Embodied carbon refers to the CO₂ emissions associated with the extraction, manufacture, transportation, and installation of building materials. Once construction is complete, these emissions are effectively locked in, meaning we, as structural engineers, have lost our ability to reduce emissions further.

The materials we specify influence not only building performance but also environmental and human health at both global and local scales. Engaging in meaningful discussions about structural systems and material choices early in the design process, alongside the entire project team, can help identify opportunities to reduce embodied carbon. By addressing it from the outset, embodied carbon can become a key performance metric rather than an afterthought.

For more information on how you can help drive the conversation around embodied reduction on your projects, reach out to any member of the Sustainable Design Committee. Want to learn more? Get started with SE 2050 Committee’s Resources Working Group “Top 10 Things Every Structural Engineer Should Know.”

Volunteer Highlights

April 25 | 8:00 a.m. | Volunteer Event - REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

National Rebuilding Day

Registration is open, and we're looking for task leaders!  Rebuilding Together is a nationwide home repair and rehabilitation initiative dedicated to keeping low-income homeowners living in safety, warmth, and independence through volunteer services. Join SEA-MW for this fun and impactful event. Volunteers will spend the day with fellow SEA-MW members making repairs and improvements to a home in the DC area. No experience necessary! Registration is open!