Antonio Aretxabala PHOTO: Manuel Castells

The Illustrious high school Official Geologists of Spain has appointed Antonio Aretxabala, director technician of the laboratory of the School of Architecture of the University of Navarra, delegate of the institution in the Autonomous Community of Navarra. In his new position, which he will combine with the service to companies and the teaching, he will focus mainly on the defense of the profession, the promotion of new members and the promotion of scientific and cultural activities.

Aretxabala points out that this is the first professional high school with a plan for employment for its members: "We have created a search engine guide for work on the Internet and another one for abroad. We are also developing a guide of companies in other countries and have signed agreements with international companies interested in hiring geologists".

Geologist Antonio Aretxabala is Professor of Geotechnics and Geomorphology at campus in Pamplona and co-founder of INDERC (International Net for the Design of Earthquake-Resilient Cities). He has developed a special interest in historical seismicity and seismic effects in cities through the integration of soil-city as a system, as well as in the design of damage mitigation tools, development of resilience and conservation of historical heritage.

Intense dissemination and awareness-raising work
It has also actively participated in the design for the resilience of Lorca with the University of Murcia, the Confederation of Businessmen, City Council, Parliament and other companies and official bodies.

On the other hand, he carries out an intense work of scientific knowledge dissemination and awareness of issues related to geology, seismicity, floods and other natural disasters. On these issues he has published numerous opinion articles in ABC and other newspapers, as well as in his blog.

He has also given numerous lectures for specialists and the general public, and sessions on seismic culture for children.