David Garza Email and Phone Number

Graduate Research in Dr. Sanjay Govindjee's group.-Characterizing and modeling of Liquid Crystal Elastomers (LCEs)

Summer Internship with structures team in Houston office. Summary below:- Created structural models of buildings using SAP2000 to analyze loading and design repairs and shoring. Models ranged from singular joists and shoring members to complete multistory frame systems.- Conducted field assessments on existing structures to gather data for models and/or determine cause of failure/damage.- Learned to operate non-destructive equipment including GPR, UPV and Resistographs for site visits.- Ran capacity/design calculations using MathCAD and other structural engineering programs on various steel and concrete members including precast concrete, joints and welds.

Undergraduate Research position in the Computational Mechanics of Soft Materials Lab led by Dr. Berkin Dortdivanlioglu. - Self-guided research into the mechanics of soft materials with themselves and the microenvironment. - Surface tension force determination for hydrogels. - Strength of droplet interface bilayers. - The impacts of gel swelling on mechanical properties. - Mechanical properties of red blood cell clots.

Worked with the Sugar Land Structures team and performed the following duties:- Created 2D models and plansets of bridges using Microstation.- Used PGSuper to design and analyze bridge decks.- Calculated girder spacing, haunch and loading of bridges.- Gathered data on existing bridges and utilities to aid in project feasibility and design.

Summer Internship position at the Texas Department of Transportation in the Dallas district. Assisting Construction Inspectors with #1257 work reports, SW3P, DWRs and material testing.