Hi, my name is
Soliyana Gurara.
Graduate Civil Engineer
Graduate Civil Engineer at the City of Philadelphia Streets Department, passionate about improving urban infrastructure and public safety through innovative engineering solutions.
About Me
Professional Summary
Results-driven civil engineer with 5+ years of progressive experience in urban infrastructure development, specializing in transportation engineering, construction management, and sustainable design. Proven track record of delivering complex infrastructure projects on time and within budget while maintaining rigorous quality standards.
As a Graduate Civil Engineer at the City of Philadelphia's Street Department, I contribute to the planning, design, and implementation of critical transportation infrastructure projects that enhance urban mobility and sustainability. Previously, as a Senior Engineer at the Defense Construction Enterprise in Ethiopia, I led construction inspection teams, managed quality control processes, and ensured compliance with international engineering standards across multiple high-profile projects.
Beyond Engineering
Living the American Dream
My journey from Ethiopia to Philadelphia represents my pursuit of the American dream. Each day brings new opportunities to grow professionally and personally in this land of possibilities. I'm grateful for the chance to contribute my skills to improving American infrastructure while embracing the diverse culture and opportunities this country offers.
Lifelong Learner
I'm passionate about continuous learning and expanding my knowledge daily. Whether it's mastering new engineering software, exploring innovative construction techniques, or understanding the latest sustainable design principles, I embrace every opportunity to grow. This curiosity drives me to stay at the cutting edge of civil engineering practices.
Featured Projects
Debre Markos Traffic Signal Design
Designed a traffic signal system from scratch for a busy four-way intersection in Debre Markos, Ethiopia that previously had no traffic control measures. The comprehensive design included traffic flow analysis, signal timing optimization, and safety enhancements that significantly improved the roundabout's functionality, reduced congestion, and decreased accident rates. The project demonstrated practical application of traffic engineering principles in a resource-constrained environment.
University Foundation Footing Project
Designed and implemented foundation footings from scratch as part of my academic capstone project at Debre Markos University. Conducted comprehensive soil testing, performed geotechnical analysis, and developed detailed structural designs based on soil bearing capacity. The project demonstrated practical application of civil engineering principles and received faculty recognition for technical excellence and methodical approach to foundation design.
Skills & Expertise
Technical Skills
- Structural Analysis & Design
- Transportation Engineering
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Water Resources Management
- Urban Infrastructure Planning
- Traffic Signal Design
- Hydraulic Modeling
Software Proficiency
- AutoCAD Civil 3D
- Revit
- SAP 2000
- VISSIM & Synchro
- HEC-RAS
- GIS Software
- Microsoft Project