Q+A with Orhun Kalyoncu

How do you describe your job to people outside of the industry?

I work as a structural engineer, specializing in how buildings respond to seismic forces. My work at Ghafari includes structural design, wind and seismic analysis, and foundation system design.

My research interests extend to geotechnical seismic isolation—essentially, improving the way structures interact with the ground to minimize earthquake damage. Additionally, I develop fragility and vulnerability models using real earthquake data to assess seismic risk.

Why did you decide to become an engineer?

I actually wanted to be a psychiatrist. Understanding people, deciphering their emotions, and recognizing the nuances of human behavior fascinated me. But life had other plans, and I became a civil engineer instead.

Interestingly, along the way, I developed a perspective that made me love this profession even more. Buildings, much like humans, react to external forces—we call these internal stresses. But beyond that, they also have hidden behavioral patterns, something akin to the unconscious mind. When we create a structure, we inevitably leave a piece of ourselves in it, shaping it with our own sensibilities.

That’s what makes this profession so beautiful. One day, if given the chance, I’d love to teach a course called Psychoanalysis of Structures.

How would you describe life at Ghafari?

Working at Ghafari has been an enriching experience, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world projects. I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of structural designs, including steel structures, reinforced concrete foundations, and facade systems. I also handle performance-based design evaluations and prepare technical reports aligned with international standards like ASCE7-16, TBDY2018, and SBC codes.

What is the most exciting thing that has happened during your time here?

One of the most exciting moments for me was working on the performance-based design of airfield structures, where I had to integrate seismic considerations into a complex structural system. It was a challenging but rewarding experience that pushed me to think beyond conventional design methods.

What is a key idea or lesson you have learned while working at Ghafari?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that I can never truly say, “Yes, now I know it all.”

Every project, every challenge, and every person I work with is an endless sea of knowledge. Each time, I find myself starting over—like a traveler setting out on a new journey, carrying nothing but curiosity and the willingness to learn again.

How do you like to spend your free time?

Outside of engineering, I spend a lot of time at the gym, focusing on both physical and mental resilience. I also have a strong passion for literature and writing. Currently, I’m preparing a manuscript for an upcoming literary competition, which is both exciting and nerve-wracking!

Additionally, I enjoy analyzing music and psychoanalysis – because love, loss, and structural dynamics have more in common than you’d think!