This presentation follows three stages commonly encountered after major disasters:
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rapid damage and needs assessment,
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forensic investigation of structural failures,
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the implementation of practical "build back better" solutions.
Examples from Jamaica, Dominica, Haiti, and other Caribbean nations will demonstrate how relatively simple engineering interventions can significantly improve the performance of critical infrastructure such as hospitals and health centres.
The presentation also considers broader questions facing the profession:
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What skills define a humanitarian engineer?
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Are current engineering education and professional development pathways adequately preparing engineers for these challenges?
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And what role should structural engineers play in addressing the increasing impacts of climate change and disaster risk?