News

Our Alumna Sena Kızıldemir Named Among PWC New York’s “Top 20 Engineers Under 40.”

Sena Kızıldemir, a 2016 Industrial Engineering graduate, has been selected as one of the “Top 20 Engineers Under 40” by Professional Women in Construction (PWC) New York, a leading U.S.-based organization.

With expertise in nonlinear finite element analysis, Sena Kızıldemir concentrates on modeling how structures behave under extreme scenarios, including collapse, fire, explosions, and impact. The advanced simulation models she has created support engineering initiatives that aim to improve the safety of critical infrastructure, safeguard assets, and enhance structural performance in demanding conditions. At Thornton Tomasetti, she has contributed to major, high-profile projects such as the Port Authority Terminal in Manhattan. Her analyses for this project provided an in-depth evaluation of risks related to thermal leakage, fire spread, and explosions that may arise from electric vehicle integration, while also supporting the adoption of performance-based safety strategies and helping reduce carbon emissions.

Reflecting on the award, Kızıldemir said:

“I am thrilled and honored to receive the ‘Top 20 Under 40’ award from PwC New York. Being included among such strong and inspiring professionals who are shaping our field at this early stage of my career is both a privilege and a major source of motivation. Doing the work I love with passion, seeing it recognized, and representing this achievement as a woman engineer is an indescribable feeling. I sincerely hope that all students on their engineering path leave their mark with inspiration, courage, and passion.”

PWC is an organization that brings together professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders in the construction and related industries.