Malia Sharp

EIT, MS, BS

Senior Associate

Biography

Malia Sharp is a Senior Associate focused on forensic engineering, with a strong background in structural systems and building performance. Ms. Sharp holds a master’s degree in Structural Engineering, Mechanics, and Materials from the University of California, Berkeley, and a bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder. Her technical foundation spans structural, lighting, electrical, and mechanical systems design, as well as sustainable building practices and construction management. Before transitioning to forensic work with YA Engineering Services, she served as a Façade Engineer on complex, high-profile projects, where she specialized in 3D structural modeling, interface detailing, field investigations, and reviewing construction documents.

Credentials

  • EIT | Engineer in Training
  • MS | Structural Engineering
  • BS | Architectural Engineering
  • LEED Green Associate

Representative Consulting Assignments

  • Commercial | Hayward, CA | Plumbing Damage Assessment | Assessment of peak particle velocity (PPV) effects on plumbing systems due to adjacent construction activity
  • High-rise Residential | Naples, FL | Hurricane Damage Assessment | Evaluation of damage to various high-rise condominium buildings from Hurricane Milton including interior moisture intrusion and wind damage to roofing and facades
  • Residential | Stockton, CA | Slab Damage Assessment | Foundation elevation surveying using a high precision altimeter to assess differential foundation movement
  • Residential | Los Angeles, CA | Fire Damage Assessment | Evaluation of multiple residential structures impacted by the Palisades Fire

Professional Experience

  • 2024 - Current | Senior Associate | YA Engineering Services
  • 2021 - 2022 | Facade Engineer | Thornton Tomasetti

Area of Practice

  • Building Envelope
  • Building Code Upgrade Review
  • Structural Analysis
  • Sustainability 
  • Damage Assessment
  • Water Leakage Testing and Analysis

Education

  • University of California Berkeley - Master of Science - Structural Engineering, Mechanics and Materials - Berkeley - California
  • University of Colorado Boulder - Bachelor of Science - Architectural Engineering - Boulder - Colorado

Licenses

  • 175566 - California - Engineer in Training