The Young Geotechnical Engineers Group of Argentina, coordinated by Cecilia Belén Laskowski Orlandi (International Representative for Young Geotechnical Engineers in Argentina), has launched an exciting and impactful initiative: a series of Technical Conferences for Young Geotechnical Engineers across Latin America.
The goal of this initiative is to create a relaxed and friendly environment for young engineers to interact, exchange experiences, discuss technical ideas, and foster international collaborationespecially with geotechnical groups from neighboring countries. The conferences also aim to promote long-term connections among young geotechnical professionals and highlight the diversity of engineering practices across the region.
2025 Conference Highlights
1st Edition April 9, 2025
Theme: Challenges in Tailings Stability
Partner Society: Sociedad Chilena de Geotecnia (Chile)
Speakers:
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Mauro Sottile (Argentina)
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Cristian Monje (Chile)
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Ignacio Cueto (Argentina)
Topics Presented:
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A comparison of advanced constitutive models for evaluating the liquefaction of upstream tailings dams
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Effect of saline soil collapse on the physical stability of tailings deposits
Followed by an interactive round of Q&A and discussion.
2nd Edition August 6, 2025
Theme: Geotechnical Design and Reliability in Excavations and Retaining Walls
Partner Society: Asociación Boliviana de Ingeniería Geotécnica (Bolivia)
Speakers:
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Pedro Fernández (Argentina)
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Rodrigo Pérez (Bolivia)
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Valentina Skorepa (Argentina)
Topics Presented:
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Reliability analysis in the design of urban excavations
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Geotechnical design of a retaining wall incorporating unsaturated soil mechanics
Followed by an engaging discussion session.
Impact and Future Plans
Both events were a great success, with over 200 registrants and more than 60 active participants, including young professionals and senior members from Argentina and other Latin American countries. The enthusiasm and participation demonstrated the need for these conferences to become recurring events in the regional geotechnical calendar.
Looking ahead, the group plans to host at least two more Technical Conferences before the end of 2025, continuing to empower young geotechnical engineers to present their work, expand their networks, and gain international visibility.
Watch the video summary below:
We would love to hear from your YMPG group too!
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Lets keep sharing and learning together across borders!