Assistant Professor Machel L. Morrison, a rising star in structural steel design, was recently honored with the Terry Peshia Early Career Faculty Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to research, teaching, and service to the steel industry. The award highlights Morrison’s promise as a leader in academia, particularly in the field of structural engineering.

Since joining the University of California San Diego in 2019, Machel has quickly established himself as a key figure in both the classroom and research labs. His work on the upgrade of UC San Diego’s earthquake simulator, a critical tool for earthquake safety, has been instrumental in advancing seismic research. The recent upgrade to a six-degree-of-freedom system is a groundbreaking achievement in the field, allowing for more accurate testing of structural performance during seismic events.

In addition to his research, Morrison has made a profound impact as a teacher. He currently teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses in structural steel design and statics, a foundational course for engineering students. Morrison’s dedication to fostering the next generation of engineers is a core part of his work, and he takes great pride in guiding students from their first technical course to mastering advanced concepts in steel design.

In a recent interview with Modern Steel Construction Magazine editor Jeff Weisenberger, Morrison reflected on his journey from student to educator, discussing how his work is advancing the steel industry. He shared his passion for research and teaching, emphasizing how his efforts are shaping the future of structural engineering. The Terry Peshia Early Career Faculty Award recognizes these academic accomplishments and Morrison’s ongoing commitment to the field, acknowledging his growing influence in both academia and the steel industry.