Derek Westphal
About Derek Westphal
Derek Westphal is a Senior Structural Engineer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, where he has worked since 2005. He specializes in seismic qualification for nuclear facilities and has extensive experience in structural engineering and safety compliance.
Work at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Derek Westphal has served as a Senior Structural Engineer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory since 2005. His role involves extensive work in seismic qualification of equipment specifically for nuclear facilities. He provides construction support for facility modifications, ensuring that all projects comply with safety and structural standards. Westphal also designs and reviews comprehensive fall protection plans, which are critical for maintaining worker safety in various construction environments.
Education and Expertise
Derek Westphal's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Building Science/Civil Engineering from the University of Southern California, where he studied from 1991 to 1994. He also holds a Master’s degree in Structural Engineering & Mechanics of Materials from the University of California, Berkeley, completed in 1995. Prior to his university studies, he graduated from Jesuit High School with a Bachelor of Science from 1984 to 1988. His expertise includes the design of nonstructural supports, bracing, and anchorage, which enhances the stability of structures under new loads.
Previous Experience at Forell/Elsesser Engineers
Before joining Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Derek Westphal worked as a Senior Associate at Forell/Elsesser Engineers from 1996 to 2005. During his nine years at the firm, he contributed to various structural engineering projects, gaining valuable experience that he later applied in his current role. His work at Forell/Elsesser Engineers helped him develop a strong foundation in structural engineering principles.
Specialization in Structural Engineering
Derek Westphal specializes in the seismic qualification of equipment and the design of nonstructural supports, bracing, and anchorage. His work focuses on enhancing the stability of structures, particularly in nuclear facilities. He also develops detailed welding procedure specifications, which are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of projects. His extensive experience in these areas contributes to the safety and reliability of engineering solutions.