Omar Abdelkarim, Ph.D., P.Eng. Email & Phone Number

Montreal, Quebec, Canada

At Global PoleTrusion Group Corp., I spearheaded the design, development, and commercialization of innovative utility infrastructure using Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites, a cutting-edge material for enhancing durability and sustainability in engineering solutions. My responsibilities included: Leading the analysis and design of new types of utility electrical and telecommunications structures, including poles and towers, utilizing advanced FRP composites for manufacturing applications. Managing the end-to-end process of developing, manufacturing, testing, and finite element modeling of FRP-based infrastructure to ensure reliability and performance. Preparing and submitting research proposals focused on integrating composite materials into renewable energy structures, driving innovation and securing potential financial support through active negotiations.This role allowed me to merge technical expertise in composite materials with strategic project leadership, contributing to the commercialization of sustainable solutions for the utility and telecommunications sectors.

Montreal, Quebec, Canada

During my postdoctoral fellowship, I contributed to advancing research in concrete and FRP composite structures, focusing on innovative solutions for infrastructure applications. Key responsibilities included: Directing and participating in research projects on concrete structures reinforced with FRP bars, with a focus on concrete girders, bridge deck slabs, and concrete pavements, enhancing durability and resilience. Leading experimental and analytical research to evaluate the behavior of pultruded FRP composite utility poles under standard load conditions, contributing to the development of high-performance materials for utility infrastructure. Reviewing and providing detailed feedback on 120+ scientific articles for prestigious international journals, demonstrating expertise in structural engineering and composites research.This role allowed me to deepen my expertise in FRP composites, expand my research contributions to the civil engineering field, and collaborate with leading academics and industry professionals on innovative structural solutions.

Rolla, Missouri, United States

As a Postdoctoral Researcher, I conducted advanced studies across various areas of civil engineering, contributing to innovative solutions in infrastructure design and assessment. My key responsibilities included: Advancing research on innovative, precast, and accelerated bridge columns, focusing on the development of design guidelines, analytical studies, finite element analysis, and the investigation of column-footing connections to enhance structural efficiency and resilience. Developing studies on eco-friendly pavement systems, exploring sustainable materials and technologies to improve environmental performance in infrastructure. Providing peer reviews for scientific papers and research proposals, ensuring academic rigor and advancing knowledge in structural engineering. Undertaking diverse consultancy tasks, including: Conducting design reviews of steel structures and preparing detailed reports on their condition post-construction. Implementing field tests to simulate the impact of flying debris under tornado conditions, contributing to improved safety and resilience in structural design.This role enabled me to integrate cutting-edge research with practical engineering solutions, expanding my expertise in sustainable infrastructure and structural performance under extreme conditions.

Rolla, Missouri, United States

As a researcher and instructor, I focused on the design, testing, and analysis of innovative bridge column systems, contributing to both academic research and student development. Key responsibilities included: Designing and executing large- and small-scale tests, and performing finite element analyses of Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) columns under static cyclic lateral loading, advancing the field of rapid bridge construction. Designing, building, and analyzing concrete-filled FRP tubular columns under axial loading, improving structural resilience and material efficiency. Conducting extensive finite element analyses on conventional and ABC bridge columns to assess their behavior under vehicle collision scenarios, providing critical insights for infrastructure safety. Proposing new equations to estimate the design value of vehicle collisions with bridge columns based solely on the vehicle’s mass and velocity, streamlining the design process for future infrastructure projects.In addition to my research, I was actively involved in teaching, where I contributed to the “Structural Design in Metals” and “Advanced Steel Structures Design” courses by: Preparing lectures and assignments, and grading student work. Providing support to students by reviewing assignments and offering guidance for corrections to reinforce their understanding of the material.This role allowed me to combine my expertise in structural design with my passion for teaching, helping students develop critical skills while advancing cutting-edge research in bridge and structural engineering.

Cairo, Egypt

Responsible for the design, review, and evaluation of mega civil engineering projects exceeding $10 billion in value, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with international engineering standards. I collaborated with contractors to provide expert guidance on structural design, reviewed project plans, and made key decisions to ensure regulatory compliance.Notable Projects• Saudi Arabia:o Jamarat Bridge: Evaluated and approved designs for a major pedestrian bridge.o High-Speed Railway Bridge (Tender): Ensured compliance for a high-impact infrastructure project.o Other projects: Al Mashaar Almoqadsah Metro Bridge, Khamis Mushait Dual Road Bridges, Princess Noura Bint Abdelrahman University, King Abdullah Financial District, Makka First Ring Road.• Qatar:o Dukhan Road Interchanges: Reviewed designs to improve traffic flow.o Other projects: Camel Crossings, Madinat Alshamal Water Tank, Umm Salal Water Tank.• Algeria:o Directed design and review of viaducts, bridges, and underpasses.• Kuwait:o Supervised the widening of Bridge 24A, ensuring efficient construction and safety.Structures and SystemsMy experience encompassed a wide variety of structures, including:• Post-tensioned and pre-tensioned slab-on-girder bridges• Post-tensioned box girder bridges• Overpasses and underpasses (up to 500 m covered sections)• Viaducts and utility tunnels (approx. 4 km)• Major water tanks, highway bridges, and railway bridgesImpactThis role allowed me to contribute to the development of innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions across multiple countries. My work ensured that project designs adhered to the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and operational efficiency, significantly enhancing regional infrastructure.

Cairo, Egypt

As an instructor in the Civil Engineering Department, I taught Design of Concrete Structures courses, engaging students in dynamic and interactive group discussions. I fostered a creative learning environment where students could experiment with course material and reinforce their understanding through collaborative exercises. My role involved not only delivering lectures but also facilitating hands-on learning experiences that helped students apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.I evaluated student performance through graded assignments and proctored examinations, ensuring a fair and comprehensive assessment of their understanding. My teaching approach emphasized critical thinking, problem-solving, and active participation, which encouraged students to engage deeply with the material.

Doctor Of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Structural Engineering

Master Of Science (M.Sc.), Structural Engineering

Emphasizing in strengthening of dry concrete joints using carbon fiber laminates.

Bachelor Of Science (B.Sc.), Civil Engineering, Distinction With Honor