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. 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
  • FAA Certified Drone Pilot

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