Suha Atiyeh: Driving Innovation in Civil Engineering

Learn how Suha Atiyeh drives innovation in civil engineering, from DC’s sustainable designs to UAE’s smart cities, with cutting-edge solutions.

1. Suha Atiyeh: Driving Innovation in Civil Engineering


Innovation is the cornerstone of Suha Atiyeh’s remarkable career in civil engineering, where
she consistently pushes boundaries to create infrastructure that meets modern challenges.
Licensed as a Professional Engineer in Washington DC and Virginia, and as a Chartered
Engineer in the UK, Atiyeh combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving to
deliver projects that redefine urban development.
Her academic foundation was built at Clemson University, where she earned a Bachelor of
Science in Civil Engineering, focusing on environmental systems and hydrology. This
education, coupled with early roles at globally ranked consulting firms, provided her with
the tools to innovate across diverse projects. These experiences sharpened her ability to
integrate cutting-edge technology with sustainable design, setting her apart in the field.
In Washington DC, Atiyeh’s innovative approach is evident in her work on Wheeler Road,
where she implemented advanced stormwater management to enhance urban resilience.
Her enhancements to MLK Jr. Avenue introduced green infrastructure, improving
connectivity while addressing environmental concerns. At St. Elizabeths Campus and
Kenilworth Courts, she incorporated bioswales and permeable pavements, showcasing how
innovative designs can combat flooding and enhance community spaces.
Her international contributions further highlight her forward-thinking mindset. In the UAE,
Atiyeh played a pivotal role in Masdar City, integrating IoT technology and renewable
energy systems to create a model for smart, sustainable urban living. Her work on flood
mitigation and water quality assessments in the region addressed critical environmental
challenges, demonstrating her ability to innovate in diverse climates.
Atiyeh’s certifications—LEED AP, Envision Sustainability Professional, and Estidama Pearl
Qualified Professional—reflect her commitment to innovative, eco-conscious engineering.

2. These credentials enable her to push the envelope, designing infrastructure that meets both
current needs and future demands.
As the ICE Representative for the US Mid-Atlantic South Region, Atiyeh inspires innovation
in others, mentoring young engineers and advocating for the adoption of new technologies.
Her leadership ensures that the field continues to evolve, embracing solutions that are both
practical and visionary.
Suha Atiyeh’s career illustrates that innovation in civil engineering is about more than new
technology—it’s about creating sustainable, impactful solutions that shape the future of
cities.