Background
I was born in Sogamoso, Colombia, and I am a civil engineer who graduated from the Industrial University of Santander (UIS). During my bachelor’s degree, I gained international experience as an exchange student at Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brazil. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I worked for approximately two years as a Junior Structural Engineer and a Civil Engineering Intern. I completed my Master’s in Natural Hazards and Risks in Structural Engineering at Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, Germany. My academic interests include structural dynamics, FEM, wind engineering, structural health monitoring, and bridge analysis. Both my bachelor’s and master’s theses focused on bridges: my bachelor’s thesis dealt with the seismic analysis of balanced cantilever bridges under vertical and horizontal motions, while my master’s thesis involved developing machine learning models (ELM) to predict the aerodynamic response of long-span bridges. Additionally, I gained experience as a teaching assistant in structural dynamics and conducted experimental modal analysis on various structures.
Motivation
I am involved in the ‘DC15 – VALUE: Value quantification of digital information systems for climate change mitigation’ program. My motivation for pursuing this Ph.D. stems from my strong interest in bridges and the implementation of new technologies, such as monitoring systems, in their maintenance and continuous diagnostic processes. By quantifying the benefits obtained through these systems, I aim to facilitate their implementation and support decision-making to extend their lifespan, addressing the major challenges posed by climate change. I am eager to use my commitment, along with my academic and work experience, to develop new methodologies that promote resilient and sustainable infrastructure management. The opportunity to work on a project that aims to extend the lifespan of bridges is incredibly motivating. I am highly motivated to engage in research and committed to making the outcomes of my studies applicable in real life through this Ph.D. program.