News

Congratulations to Professor Hany El Naggar on being elected a Fellow of the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE).

Dr. El Naggar is a Professor of Geostructural Engineering in our Department of Civil and Resource Engineering. Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to the fields of soil mechanics and foundation engineering while inspiring and mentoring generations of engineering students who have gone on to make their own impact in the profession.

CSCE Fellowships are awarded to members who have demonstrated excellence in civil engineering and made significant contributions to advancing the profession through their leadership, service, research, and practice.

To celebrate this achievement, we asked Dr. El Naggar to reflect on his career, his passion for civil engineering, and what advice he’s give to the next generation of engineers.

What does being named a Fellow of the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering mean to you?

Being elected a Fellow of the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering is a tremendous honour. Personally, it is very meaningful because it reflects many years of dedication, service, collaboration, and commitment to the civil engineering profession.

Professionally, it is a recognition that I deeply value, especially because CSCE has played an important role in connecting engineers, researchers, educators, and students across Canada. To be recognized by such a respected national organization is both humbling and encouraging.
 

What continues to inspire and motivate you after so many years in the profession?

What continues to inspire me is the impact that civil engineering has on people's lives and communities. Our work shapes the infrastructure people rely on every day, from bridges and buildings to transportation systems and resilient communities.

I am also motivated by students and young engineers. Seeing their curiosity, growth, and ambition reminds me of the importance of mentorship, teaching, and creating opportunities for the next generation of engineers.

What advice would you give to engineering students who hope to one day make a meaningful impact on the profession?

My advice to students is to stay curious, work hard, and never underestimate the value of service to the profession and to the community.

Technical knowledge is essential, but meaningful impact also comes from integrity, collaboration, communication, and a willingness to keep learning. I would encourage students to get involved in professional organizations, seek mentors, contribute to research and practice, and remain open to opportunities that may take them beyond their comfort zone.
 

Looking back on your career, what accomplishments or contributions are you most proud of?

I am most proud of the contributions that have combined research, teaching, professional service, and mentorship. I have been fortunate to work on research and engineering projects related to soil-structure interaction, buried structures, infrastructure resilience, and innovative ground improvement solutions.

I am also proud of my involvement with CSCE committees over many years, particularly in supporting technical communities and encouraging collaboration among professionals and academics.

Above all, I am proud of the students and young engineers I have had the opportunity to teach, supervise, and mentor. Their success is one of the most rewarding parts of my career.