Engineering News Record’s Mountain States edition recently named two civil engineering Buffs to its Top 20 Under 40 list. The list recognizes those working full-time in some aspect of the commercial construction industry who have shown themselves to be leaders, pioneers or mentors in the industry. 
Alumnus Matt Hoster (CivEngr’00) was recognized for his work at W.E. O’Neil, where he has worked since a summer internship during his time at CU-Boulder. He is currently vice president and has worked on some of the firm’s top projects. 
Assistant Professor Abbie Liel was recognized for her research into disaster-resistant structures. ENR highlighted her 19 research grants, totaling more than $2 million in funding, and her work in advising more than 50 students on research projects. To see ENR’s full list, please visit their website. More Accolades for Dr. Liel! Liel was also recently awarded the 2014 Shah Family Innovation Prize, which is awarded annually by the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI) to “younger professionals and academics for creativity, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit in the field of earthquake risk mitigation and management.” She will receive the award in April at the 2015 EERI Annual Meeting in Boston.