In 1994, the Structural Engineers Association of California (SEAOC) Board of Directors established the College of Fellows to honor members who have demonstrated exceptional service to the association and made significant contributions to the field of structural engineering. Fellows are nominated by their Member Organizations based on their expertise, professional achievements, thought leadership, and service to both the profession and the public.
We are thrilled to announce that MHP’s very own, Kenneth O’Dell, S.E. was formally inducted into the SEAOC College of Fellows during the 2025 convention in San Diego. With over 35 years in the industry, Ken’s active involvement in professional organizations has left a lasting impression on his colleagues.
Early in his career, Ken became actively involved with SEAOSC (Structural Engineers Association of Southern California), serving on the Computer Applications Committee before joining the SEAOSC Board of Directors from 2013–2015 and 2017–2021, and ultimately serving as SEAOSC President from 2019–2020. As a SEAOSC officer from 2018–2021, he also participated on the SEAOC State Board of Directors and served as SEAOC President for the 2021–2022 term. During his time on the SEAOC Communications Committee, Ken helped advance the Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards program and supported media relations following the 2017 Mexico City and 2019 Ridgecrest Earthquakes.
In 2022, Ken was elected to the NCSEA Board of Directors, where he currently serves as Secretary. He has contributed to NCSEA’s External Communications Committee and the WeSEE campaign team, helping shape the profession’s external branding. Ken is especially proud of SEAOC’s Pathways to the Profession program, which he helped establish in 2021. This initiative was designed to empower students and early-career professionals, especially those from underrepresented groups, by providing mentorship, growth opportunities, and pathways to success in structural engineering.
Through his collaborative and forward-thinking efforts, Ken is helping shape SEAOC’s future and pave the way for the next generation of engineers.
As Vice President & Principal here at MHP, we are very grateful for Ken’s leadership, dedication, and the lasting impact he has made on both our team and the broader structural engineering community.
Congratulations, Ken!
