![Badreyah Al-Marshed stands next to a wave tank to conduct testing for her research project.](_news-images/OCEN-news-BadreyahAl-Marshed-040219.jpg)
Seawalls, dikes and sand dunes are single defense alternatives protecting the world’s beaches and coastlines. With nearly 40 percent of the population living along the coastline, it is now more important than ever to better protect our coastal communities.
Badreyah Al-
Al-
The structure’s hybrid nature allows for the simultaneous protection and restoration of coastal ecosystems. This design also offers the desired level of infrastructure protection against flooding and storm surge and can be utilized in locations with limited space.
I have learned that if you believe in yourself and pursue your passion, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
Hybrid structures similar to the ones Al-
“Thus, the development of design criteria of such hybrid structures will be essential for the protection of our coastal community,” Al-
Al-
“Being a female coastal engineer in a male-dominated field is the greatest challenge I have faced so far,” Al-
She encourages women pursuing a similar career to identify a goal and work hard to achieve it.
“Remember that with determination and hard work, you will achieve your goal no matter how unattainable others think it is,” Al-