Copyright ©2026 by Mostafa Sameer
“Don’t be happy at the death or downfall of your enemy. Remember that death comes for everyone, including those you love and eventually yourself. The day is passing, and sooner or later, everyone must leave this world.” - Mian Muhammad Bakhsh
Morale: The deeper lesson is not to become arrogant or vindictive when someone you dislike suffers. Life is temporary, and the same fate ultimately awaits everyone.
In May 2025, I attended the EMI Conference (https://www.emi-conference.org/about) in Anaheim, California, where I connected with peers and professionals from around the world.
In January 2024, I attended the annual Transportation Research Board (TRB) meeting in Washington, DC, connecting with peers and professionals worldwide.
With Dr. Xiaodong Qian (CHAO-DONG-CHEN), Assistant Professor. It is a great experience to have a trial run for a survey, visibility, and experience in our partner community NGO.
It was a wonderful experience attending the four-day workshop on "Introduction to Semiconductor Chip Design and Verification" at the College of Engineering, Wayne State University, with (from left) Dr. Ismail, Head of the Department, ECE, & Dr. Alhawari, Associate Professor, ECE Department.
with (from right) Dr. Khwaja Mateen Mazher (https://pure.kfupm.edu.sa/en/persons/khwaja-mateen-mazher), Dr. Awsan Mohammed (https://pure.kfupm.edu.sa/en/persons/awsan-mohammed), and Dr. Wael El Ghandour, Ph.D., P.Eng., PMP (https://futureoilgas.com/wael-el-ghandour/) on a seminar based on "Interface Management and Simulation for the Oil and Construction Industry."
With Dr. Arif Masud, John and Eileen Blumenschein Professor in CEE, Robert H. Dodds Faculty Scholar.
Diploma Completion of Masters of Science in Civil Engineering from Wayne State University
participation in a 3-day workshop organized by Saudi ARAMCO
I received a certificate of completion for participating in the Renewable Energy Workshop.
Winning the championship trophy in the soccer match
This program aims to send a thank-you message to laborers for their hard work by conducting an interactive entertainment program that enhances our connection and brings us together as one community.
an active participant in organizing "Open Day" for international students at KFUPM.
Featured on Wayne State University website, In Gordie Howe International Bridge Project
LATEST UPDATES!!
March, 16th, 2026 (Milestone)
Passed my Ph.D. Qualifying Examination. My topic of Research is "Interpretable Network Metrics for Equity-Aware Prioritization of Bridge Rehabilitation and Recovery."
November, 5th, 2025
Our journal paper 'Computational Review of Disaster Resilience Research in Bangladesh,' in collaboration with Dr. Himadri Sen Gupta and Dr. Omar Nofal, has been accepted in the Elsevier Progress in Disaster Science reviewer pool. Also, thanks to Tanjeel and Tabassum for making this happen.
October, 18th, 2025
Alhamdulillah! I’m truly humbled to share that my project FloodGuard Miami has been awarded First Place – Track #2 “Tech Unicorn” Winner at the EmpowHer Online Hackathon 2025 (Miami session). 🏆
September 1st, 2025
Alhamdulillah! Joined as an RSO representative in FIU FES.
June 12th, 2025
Alhamdulillah! I am thrilled to announce that Florida International University has selected me to receive the Barnes and Noble Book Scholarship for Spring 2025. This scholarship supports students with expenses related to books and educational materials, and I am truly thankful for this opportunity.
May 29th, 2025 (Milestone)
Attended EMI 2025 in Anaheim, California, and presented my research on “The Impact of the Modeling Resolution on Flood Risk Analysis Outcomes.” I am deeply grateful for the guidance provided by my advisor, Dr. Omar Nofal, and the support I received from Florida International University.
February 12th, 2025
Officially became an Associate Member of Sigma Xi—the Scientific Research Honor Society, FIU Chapter
February 5th, 2025
Our paper abstract on "The Impact of the Modeling Resolution on Flood Risk Analysis Outcomes" got accepted at EMI 2025 (
December 14th, 2024 (Milestone)
Alhamdulillah! Completed convocation at Wayne State University. Currently, I am an alumnus there. (Link)
November 13th, 2024
I published my first article with the Florida Building Commission. Huge thanks to my advisor, Dr. Omar Nofal, for his guidance and support. (Click the link to read the article.)
September 30th, 2024
Received my Florida driver’s license—symbolizing new beginnings in the Sunshine State.
August 21st, 2024 (Milestone)
I became a graduate student in Dr. Omar Nofal's lab at Florida International University. I am eager to contribute to hurricane resilience research, specifically concentrating on sliding glass doors for Miami-Dade, in collaboration with Dr. Nofal, Dr. Ryan Catarelli, and Dr. Arindam Gan Chowdhury.
August 16th, 2024
I relocated to Miami, Florida, on August 16th, 2024.
August 14th, 2024
Completed my Master of Science in Civil Engineering at Wayne State University—a major milestone!
June 2024–August 13th, 2024
I completed an internship at Fluor Corporation, where I gained valuable experience working on large-scale infrastructure projects.
Early 2024 (January)
I attended the annual Transportation Research Board (TRB) meeting in Washington, DC, which allowed me to connect with peers and professionals worldwide.
2024 (Sooner or later)
I became a member of the Transportation Research Group (TRG) led by Dr. Steve Levernz, advancing my transportation research involvement.
Soon after November 2023
I became involved with CARLA, an open-source driving simulation software that focuses on traffic and human behavior navigation, thereby deepening my interest in simulation and modeling in civil and transportation engineering.
November 2023
Set up the driving simulator at Wayne State University's Emerging Mobility Lab, led by Dr. Xiaodong Qian, immersing myself in hands-on advanced mobility technologies.
I remember watching the news unfold, stunned by the magnitude of the collapse. My heart sank with every report of the injured and dead. More than just an emotional response, the event planted a seed within me that would grow into a deep desire to understand the true weight of responsibility that engineers bear when shaping the built environment. The collapse of Rana Plaza, caused by a structural engineer’s poor design, ignited my curiosity and, in many ways, defined the path I would follow. I found myself thinking, what kind of design decisions led to this? How could we prevent something so catastrophic? Although those questions seemed simple, they became the driving force that motivated my pursuit of a career in structural engineering.
From a young age, I had always found satisfaction in solving problems. Whether it was simple puzzles or more complex challenges in my academic life, the ability to break down an issue and find a solution fascinated me. I thrived under pressure, discovering clarity amidst chaos. This trait became my strongest asset throughout my career. As I continued my education, especially in civil engineering, it became clear that the field was not just about designing buildings or bridges, but also about finding solutions that could withstand time, weather, and unforeseen challenges.
I quickly realized that civil engineering, particularly structural engineering, was an avenue where my problem-solving skills could truly make a difference. What fascinated me the most was the responsibility I would bear—not just to meet deadlines or regulations but to ensure that the structures I designed could stand strong and safe for generations to come. The knowledge that my work could directly affect the safety and well-being of others, potentially saving lives, became a motivating force. Unlike many professions, where one’s work may have limited impact, engineering has a profound and lasting influence on society. Every project I worked on, every structure I helped build, contributed to a larger purpose: to create safer, more resilient environments for people.
Before FIU, I completed my master’s in civil engineering at Wayne State University, where I specialized in transportation engineering, as well as an MBA in operations and supply chain management. The transition between disciplines was not always seamless, but each step helped me refine my understanding of infrastructure systems, both from an engineering perspective and a management standpoint. The intersection of civil engineering and business management has given me a unique vantage point on large-scale projects—balancing technical challenges with the practicalities of budget, logistics, and time constraints.
My academic career has been a testament to my commitment to lifelong learning. I don’t just take courses or attend lectures—I actively seek out opportunities to experiment, to push the boundaries of what I know, and to engage with new technologies that might revolutionize the way we think about infrastructure. The world of engineering is constantly evolving, and I believe that to stay at the forefront, one must continuously adapt, learn, and grow.
While my academic experiences were essential in shaping my understanding of structural engineering, it was my professional journey that truly honed my skills. Working on large-scale infrastructure projects boosted my technical expertise and taught me the value of collaboration, leadership, and adaptability.
One of the most significant projects I worked on was the Gordie Howe International Bridge. As a quality technician, I was entrusted with ensuring that the project met the highest standards. The $5.6 billion bridge project required strict adherence to AASHTO and ASTM regulations, and I played a key role in developing quality assurance methods. I conducted structural assessments, working closely with engineers and other professionals to ensure that the bridge would be safe, durable, and reliable. This experience was invaluable—working on a project of this magnitude meant collaborating with brilliant minds, learning from their expertise, and contributing to an infrastructure project that would stand for decades.
In addition to my work on the bridge, I also explored new ways of using technology to improve infrastructure resilience. At FIU, I utilized machine learning models to assess the vulnerability of coastal infrastructure to hurricanes. This research, which combined structural engineering with cutting-edge data science, aimed to develop predictive models for understanding how different buildings and structures would perform under extreme weather conditions. Future building codes could use the results of this work to build infrastructure that can withstand the inevitable challenges posed by climate change.
Furthermore, I worked on GIS-based flood risk assessments, applying geographical information systems to map areas that were most vulnerable to flooding. This work was especially meaningful to me because it combined my academic knowledge with my passion for solving real-world problems. By studying the vulnerability of coastal regions in the U.S. and flood-prone areas in Bangladesh, I contributed to efforts that could save lives and reduce damage during extreme weather events.
Programming: Python (Anaconda, Jupyter), R, C, and MATLAB; Data Analysis & Machine Learning: Scikit-learn, Pandas, NumPy, PyTorch, Scipy, and Matplotlib.
Civil Engineering Software: SAP 2000, ETABS, AutoCAD, ArcGIS.
Statistical Analysis: R-Studio, Minitab.
General: MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
License: AMIEB (Associate Member, Institute of Engineers, Bangladesh)
Email (Personal): mostafasameer.aust@gmail.com
Full-Time Member at the Institute of Engineers, Bangladesh (from November 2022): M42838
Field Visit by SIKA at KDS.
Group Project for the MAPATHON
Throughout my career, I’ve focused on one key question: How can we build infrastructure that is not only strong but also resilient to the extreme weather events we’re increasingly facing? The answer to this question is something I’ve pursued through both my academic research and my professional projects.
My research on hurricane-resistant infrastructure has gained significant attention in the U.S. As coastal cities continue to face the threat of hurricanes, the need for robust, hurricane-resistant buildings becomes ever more urgent. Working with the Florida Construction Commission, I helped research and develop new building codes designed to minimize damage from hurricanes, particularly focusing on rain infiltration and wind-driven rain. These codes are important because they guarantee the resilience of buildings, especially in areas where hurricanes are a frequent threat. It’s humbling to think that the work I contributed to might one day help safeguard the lives and homes of people in those regions.
On a more global scale, I’ve extended my work to flood risk assessments in Bangladesh. The country, which is prone to floods during the monsoon season, faces a unique set of challenges when it comes to building resilient infrastructure. Floods destroy homes and livelihoods and lead to a cascade of long-term economic and social problems. By combining my knowledge of structural engineering with GIS technology, I’ve worked on projects aimed at mapping flood risks and identifying areas most vulnerable to disaster. The hope is that this work will guide future urban planning and infrastructure development, ensuring that Bangladesh’s cities are better prepared for the challenges of climate change.
One of the things that truly excites me about engineering is the role that technology can play in creating solutions for both local and global challenges. Whether it’s using machine learning to predict infrastructure vulnerability or employing GIS to map flood risks, technology has the power to transform the way we approach problems. I am passionate about finding practical, technology-driven solutions that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
At the core of my work lies a desire to make sustainable, long-term improvements. As much as I enjoy tackling the immediate challenges of designing resilient infrastructure, I am equally focused on ensuring that the solutions we create will endure over time. Infrastructure, after all, is built to last. The structures we design today will serve communities for decades, even centuries. This understanding drives me to ensure that everything I contribute to has the potential to benefit future generations. I want to join a movement that solves today's issues and builds systems that can adapt to future challenges.
Reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for the many opportunities that have shaped me—both academically and professionally. My transition from transportation engineering to structural engineering wasn’t always smooth, but it broadened my skillset and gave me a more flexible, adaptive approach to problem-solving. These experiences have made me more versatile and more capable of working in complex environments and across various disciplines. As I continue my career, I know that adaptability will be key to my success. The world of engineering is constantly evolving, and the ability to navigate new challenges will be essential in achieving my goals.
As I continue to pursue my Ph.D. in structural engineering, my goal remains clear: I want to use my expertise to help build resilient, sustainable infrastructure that not only stands strong in the face of extreme weather but also contributes to the safety and well-being of communities around the world. Whether it's in the U.S., Bangladesh, or elsewhere, I am committed to using my knowledge and skills to make a meaningful difference.
Looking forward, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. I see a future where I can continue to contribute to research, collaborate with brilliant minds in the field, and work on projects that will have a lasting impact. My passion for engineering, technology, and sustainability remains as strong as ever. Through my work, I hope to continue influencing infrastructure resilience and contribute to the development of more sustainable, disaster-resistant communities. My journey is far from over, and I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that await.
A few months ago, I was scrambling to find FE Civil study materials — jumping between random forums, broken Google Drive links, and PDFs that barely loaded on mobile.
So while I'm deep in my Ph.D. research at FIU, I built something I wish had existed when I was preparing:
🔗 https://mostafasameer-transportation.github.io/fe-civil-resources/
A free, clean resource hub for anyone preparing for the FE Civil exam. No sign-ups. No paywalls. Just:
📘 The official NCEES FE Reference Handbook (v10.3)
📙 FE Civil Review by Islam — 800 solved problems
🗂️ Supplementary practice materials bundled and ready to download
The site also has study strategy tips based on what actually moves the needle — how to navigate the handbook fast, where to focus your hours, and how to approach the 110-question format.
If you're currently preparing for the FE Civil, or know someone who is — share this with them. It's free, always will be.
Building things that help people is just as meaningful to me as the research. Sometimes more.
#FEExam #CivilEngineering #EngineeringLicensure #FIU #NCEES #GivingBack #OpenAccess
Receiving farewell crests at Youngone Corporation
at a farewell ceremony at KDS Textile Mills Ltd.
With Dr. Hasan M. Al-Ahmadi, Associate Professor and with undergraduate Civil engineering students on a trip
BEPZA team members visited factories.
With new international students arriving at KFUPM for the fall session of 2022 at Boulevard
Winning the championship in the BSO Soccer Tournament 2025.
