Brian Gorberg

Bio

Mr. Brian Gorberg has a background in geology, earning his B.S. degree from San Diego State University (SDSU). At SDSU, he was recognized as an Outstanding Graduate for his academic success and leadership on the Imperial Barrel Award team, where he led a group of geologists in exploring potential oil plays and carbon dioxide sequestration opportunities using diverse geologic and geophysical data sets. He earned his M.S. degree from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, where his research focused on numerical flood modeling, and he is now pursuing a Ph.D. at the same institution. His doctoral research focuses on compound flooding, flood-stage mapping, and shoreline erosion studies. Through his expertise in GIS, Python, statistical analysis, and numerical modeling, Mr. Gorberg works to develop flooding and shoreline solutions for coastal communities across Hawaiʻi.

Throughout his graduate studies, Mr. Gorberg has built connections with numerous agencies and has emphasized the importance of community-based research. He has collaborated with planning departments, the National Weather Service, council members, local community groups, and industry leaders. For one of his flood studies on the windward side of Oʻahu, he organized a series of community workshops and interviews to better understand local flooding concerns and develop modeling projects that were useful and accessible to a broad audience. He excels at working across disciplines and communicating complex modeling results to colleagues, stakeholders, and the general public.

Mr. Gorberg has been recognized for his distinctive flood modeling skillset and his ability to connect technical research with lived experience. Having experienced multiple floods and lived in coastal areas affected by shoreline-related issues, he brings valuable personal perspective to his work. These experiences allow him to relate meaningfully to communities impacted by flooding and coastal erosion. By collaborating with stakeholders and community members, his technical solutions incorporate diverse perspectives and support more practical, community-informed outcomes.