2024 MEMBER SPOTLIGHTS

BIOGRAPHY

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Parisa Sanaei currently uses her background in architecture and civil engineering as an Associate Consultant in the Transportation Facilities Group within the Capital Area Architectural Team at WSP. Growing up, Parisa was fascinated by the blend of art, construction, and engineering, which sparked her passion for building and creating. This passion inspired her to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, a Master's degree in Architecture, and a PhD in Civil Engineering with a focus on Construction Engineering and Management. Her diverse educational background and professional experience with the private and public sectors have equipped her with a unique perspective, allowing her to actively be engaged with different aspects of the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.

 

YOUR STORY – HOW DID YOU GET INSPIRED TO WORK IN AVIATION?

During my PhD studies, I became deeply involved with the Transportation Research Board (TRB) through my work on transportation-related research projects. This involvement led me to receiving the Airport Cooperative Research Program Graduate Research Award, where I researched integrating laser scanning and photogrammetry into runway inspection procedures in the United States airports. This project allowed me to collaborate with esteemed scholars and technical experts, culminating in a presentation to TRB's Aircraft/Airport Compatibility Standing Committee. I was later appointed as a young member of this committee (AV070) and now assist with communication coordination, including the committee’s newsletters and the website.

 

WHAT ARE SOME KEY PROJECTS OR INITIATIVES THAT YOU'VE BEEN INVOLVED IN DURING YOUR CAREER?

Being a researcher for the TRB's Airport Cooperative Research Program, supported by the Federal Aviation Administration, was a valuable opportunity for me to learn how industry and academia can collaborate. I explored the applications of UAV photogrammetry and LiDAR in aviation, and the integration of automatic pavement defect detection methods into US airport runway inspections. My study examined the potential of these emerging 3D reconstruction technologies to improve inspection procedures and aimed to assist authorities in developing a cost-effective preventative and corrective runway maintenance program by incorporating the latest technological approaches into existing inspection procedures.

 

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FOR OTHER YOUNG PROFESSIONALS IN AVIATION?

My top piece of advice for young professionals in aviation is to always be proactive in reaching out and connecting with people in your field or related fields. Establishing a network of mentors, peers, and industry experts is extremely valuable. Stay curious and open-minded, and actively seek out niche areas where you may be able to make a unique impact. The aviation industry is always changing, and new technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things present exciting opportunities to innovate and improve cost-efficiency, reliability, and resilience in airport and aircraft operations. Embrace these technologies and be part of the next wave of advancements in aviation, which has already begun recently.

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FUTURE OF THE INDUSTRY - WHERE DO YOU SEE IT? WHAT UPCOMING OR EMERGING ASPECTS OF THE AVIATION INDUSTRY ARE YOU MOST EXCITED FOR?

Looking ahead, the aviation industry is poised for transformative changes driven by several exciting trends. One of the most promising developments to look forward to is advanced predictive maintenance. It is thrilling to see that the aviation industry is embracing sophisticated systems that leverage AI, machine learning, and IoT technologies. The integration of cutting-edge technologies promises a safer, more reliable, and passenger-friendly air travel experience for everyone involved. This will enhance the airport and aircraft performance, increase the accuracy of repair and maintenance schedules, reduce downtime, and improve safety. I'm particularly excited about how these innovations will shape the future of aviation, making it a more sustainable and technologically advanced industry.

 

 

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About YMC-A

The group’s mission is “to encourage and support the involvement, education and growth of students and young professionals within the TRB, its related activities including the Annual Meeting and the aviation industry as a whole.” Its goals are to: 1) Provide positive experiences to undergraduate and graduate students interested in aviation; 2) Promote aviation related careers to students and young professionals; 3) Support a positive experience at the annual meeting by providing new attendees interested in aviation guidance and mentoring; 4) Identify avenues for young members to become involved in aviation related committees and activities within TRB; 5) Assist committee chairs by identifying young members interested in filling vacant slots; 6) Provide an educational component to young members; and 7) Have fun as a group and provide a means to promote networking!

 

If you have an interest in joining, please email ymcatrb@gmail.com.