Global engineering leaders gathered at UNESCO headquarters to drive innovation and sustainable infrastructure solutions
LOS ANGELES (March 12, 2025) – K. N. Gunalan, Ph.D., P.E., (Guna), vice president and senior project director at HNTB Corporation, was a distinguished panelist at the prestigious World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development event, hosted by UNESCO at its headquarters in Paris, France.
The event, organized in partnership with the World Federation of Engineering Organizations, brought together global leaders, policymakers and industry experts to discuss the critical role of engineering in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The 2025 theme, “Unleashing the Power of Engineers to Advance the SDGs,” highlighted innovative solutions that address global challenges such as clean energy, climate resilience and digital transformation.
HNTB’s Guna Gunalan speaking on March 4, 2025
Gunalan participated in the “Empowering Africa: Digital Transformation and Capacity Building” session on March 4, contributing insights on how engineering advancements can drive sustainable development across the continent. The session explored strategies for leveraging technology, fostering capacity building and bridge the digital divide to create a more inclusive future. Video of the session is available here (Gunalan’s comments start around the 4:48 mark).
“Guna’s participation in this global event underscores HNTB’s commitment to sustainable and innovative infrastructure solutions,” said Yoga Chandran, Ph.D., P.E., G.E., Los Angeles office leader and senior vice president for HNTB. “Collaborating with international leaders at UNESCO allows us to stay at the forefront of engineering advancements and digital transformation, ensuring we continue to deliver resilient, future-ready infrastructure for our clients.”
Gunalan’s involvement strengthens HNTB’s ability to integrate emerging technologies and global best practices into infrastructure projects, helping clients navigate evolving challenges and achieve long-term sustainability goals.
“I am honored to have joined esteemed colleagues in this important conversation about the future of engineering and sustainability,” said Gunalan. “This event was a vital opportunity to exchange ideas and drive solutions that will shape a more resilient and equitable world.”
World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development was proclaimed by UNESCO in 2019 to highlight the essential role of engineering in addressing global challenges. The event served as a platform to foster cross-sector collaboration and inspire innovation in support of a sustainable future.