An Inspiring Evening with the IStructE President
Last night I had the privilege of meeting the President of the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE) at an event hosted by the IStructE Thames Valley region.
It was a fantastic opportunity to hear directly from Mohamad Khodr Al-Dah, the 104th President of the IStructE, who shared his inspiring vision for the future of the profession.
Mohamad’s global experience was clear throughout his presentation. From his early days at Arup UK to his leadership role in Dubai’s Real Estate Regulatory Agency. He spoke passionately about the importance of adaptive reuse and retrofitting, drawing on landmark projects like Unilever House and the award-winning Expo 2020 Dubai Sunshades. His emphasis on collaboration between engineers and architects resonated strongly with the audience.
Following the President’s address and Q&A, we enjoyed a thought-provoking CPD on Sustainable Structural Vibration Isolation led by Philip Mohan, AMIOA. The session explored innovative uses of natural materials like cork and rubber, offering practical and environmentally responsible alternatives to traditional elastomers.
With engaging discussion, valuable insights, and a welcoming atmosphere (not to mention a great buffet!), the evening was a brilliant reminder of the strength and forward-thinking spirit of the structural engineering community.
