Okeechobee Road/SR 25 from the Broward/ Miami-Dade County Line to the HEFT Design Consultant
2024 ACEC FL Outstanding Roadway Project 2024 CAACE Project of the Year (Category III)
Glades Interchange Owner’s Representative
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FDOT District 6
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Projects & People of the Year
In this issue, we celebrate award-winning engineers and their work across Florida as they make the state a better place.
Aerial photo of the Wave Attenuation Devices along the south causeway of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The project received a Grand Award from the ACEC Florida Engineering Excellence Awards.
A Letter from the Editor
Happy holidays from Engineering Florida, where we are again taking our final issue of the year to recognize some of the most distinguished projects and engineers across our state.
In this issue, you’ll read about a host of engineering projects that have won awards from our partner organizations, as well as engineers who have been highlighted for their contributions to our industry.
We’re particularly excited to feature Teresa Kinney, NASA’s Deep Space Logistics engineering chief and our 2024 Engineer of Distinction. In our Education Update, we also honor young engineers who are already making an impact.
From the C-51 Reservoir bringing more water supply to South Florida to the Graham Swamp Trail adding recreational opportunities for Flagler County residents and visitors, we shine the spotlight on several projects that are improving the lives of Floridians.
Speaking of engineers of distinction, we also want to extend our congratulations to Bill Conerly, a fifthgeneration Floridian and experienced engineer, on his election to represent District 72 in the Florida House of Representatives.
With decades of leadership mentoring the next generation of engineers and a commitment to improving infrastructure, public safety, and insurance reform, Bill brings a unique perspective to Tallahassee. His dedication to fostering innovation and advocating for policies that benefit both engineers and the broader community promises to make a lasting impact on our state.
We also want to thank everyone who makes Engineering Florida possible, including:
— Florida Engineering Society (FES)
— American Council of Engineering Companies of Florida (ACEC Florida)
— American Society of Civil Engineers Florida Section (FLASCE)
— American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and AirConditioning Engineers (ASHRAE Region XII)
— American Society of Highway Engineers (ASHE)
— Florida Structural Engineers Association (FSEA)
— Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS Florida Chapters)
Our partners and editorial board help keep our publication fresh and focused on the latest engineering news and viewpoints from experts in our industry.
We’d love for you to be a part of Engineering Florida as we move into our third year. Take a look at our 2025 media kit and editorial calendar at the end of this issue to see how you and your organization can help us further our reach and mission. With your support, we’ve published eight issues of Engineering Florida, and we’re excited about what the future holds.
Thank you for reading, and we hope you have a happy holiday season. We’ll see you in 2025!
Stacey Butler Director of Marketing & Communications FES | ACEC Florida
GRAHAM SWAMP TRAIL
LAW & ETHICS: END OF YEAR REVIEW
MILTON + HELENE DESTRUCTION ACROSS FLORIDA
C-51 RESERVOIR
ADDS WATER SUPPLY RELIABILITY
DIVERGING DIAMOND INTERCHANGE IMPROVING I-95
NASA'S TERESA KINNEY FLORIDA ENGINEER OF DISTINCTION
Tim Wineberg, PE Michael Baker International | FES
Calendar of Events
An End-of-Year Review
TVeronica Bayó Clifford, Esq.
Veronica Bayó Clifford, Esq. is of counsel for Grossman, Furlow & Bayó, LLC in Tallahassee.
he end of the year is upon us and with it comes an opportunity for reflection, learning and review. With that in mind, this article covers changes in Florida’s engineering laws and rules over the past year.
And, because there is nothing quite as educational as learning from the mistakes of others, it will also provide an overview of recent trends in disciplinary action and a couple of notable cases. Because I do not want a lump of coal in my stocking this year, the names and some identifying details have been changed.
NEW LAWS
The Interstate Mobility Act passed this year requires that regulatory boards under the Department of Business and Professional Regulation allow licensure by endorsement for any individual who applies for licensure by endorsement if the applicant meets certain specified criteria. This law streamlines the application process for qualified individuals, including engineers.
Another important piece of legislation passed this year made several amendments to Part IV of Chapter 553, F.S. (Florida Building Code). These changes include a new definition of “private provider firm” – a business entity that offers services through engineers, architects or building code administrators. The amendments significantly shorten the time local governments have to approve, approve with conditions, or deny permit applications.
For complete permit applications submitted by private providers, local governments must now make a permit determination within 10 business days of receipt instead of the previous timeframe of 120 days. There are several additional changes that merit review by those engineers engaged in this area of practice.
NEW RULES
The Board of Professional Engineers made several rule changes this year and has done an excellent job making this information available on their website: fbpe.org.
One important rule change concerns continuing education and demonstrating compliance. Licensees are now required to affirmatively declare completion of the continuing education requirements upon licensure renewal. Licensees must sign up for a National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) Continuing Professional Competency (“CPC”) Tracking Account and certify that they have done so.
The rule states that the Board will use attendance information submitted by continuing education providers and documents uploaded to the NCEES CPC Tracking Account to determine compliance. However, keep in mind that the rule still requires licensees to keep records documenting continuing education for a period of four years from the date of completion.
NOTABLE CE CASES
The subject of continuing education segways nicely into our review of recent disciplinary cases. In preparing to write this article, I reviewed several cases and was struck by how many of them were based on simple failure to complete the required continuing education.
Indeed, out of the 50 or so cases reviewed, over 25% of them were continuing education cases. Only negligence cases were more prevalent at around 35%. Unlicensed practice and misconduct cases also made up a significant portion.
A recent Board of Professional Engineers case demonstrates how quickly a minor continuing education case can spiral into a major one. In this case, an engineer
had recently renewed his license and had attested to having completed the required continuing education necessary for renewal.
Unfortunately, the engineer found himself subject to a continuing education audit. Not only did the engineer fail to timely respond to the Board’s audit, but when he finally did so, he was unable to produce any evidence that he had completed any CE hours. The engineer’s license was reprimanded and suspended until he completes all outstanding required CE hours and a host of other requirements. Crucially, he is required to petition and appear before the Board for reinstatement and to demonstrate compliance.
MISCONDUCT CASES
Another notable case decided this year involves a charge of misconduct. Cases involving misconduct are interesting because the term encompasses a variety of behaviors. For purposes of the following case, misconduct meant a failure to disclose a conflict of interest.
An engineer working for a Florida county failed to disclose that she was seeking employment with a private company whose project plans she was reviewing. She ultimately approved the project without disclosing to her employer the circumstances surrounding her involvement with the private company. The engineer had signed a conflict-ofinterest disclosure form as part of her employment with the county.
The Board reprimanded her engineering license and imposed an administrative fine, costs, and the successful completion of an engineering professionalism and ethics course within one year and the Board’s Laws and Rules Study Guide within 30 days.
Although this article is in no way meant to be an exhaustive review of this year’s engineering regulatory matters, I hope it provides awareness of the everchanging nature of the subject.
For more than 85 years, Walter P Moore has engineered structures and infrastructure for communities worldwide.
ACEC
AMERICAN COUNCIL OF ENGINEERING COMPANIES of Florida
ACEC Florida Recognizes Award Winners
The ACEC Florida Engineering Excellence Awards recognize outstanding contributions to the consulting engineering profession through a comprehensive evaluation of projects by a distinguished panel of experts in related fields.
Here is a look at this year’s Honor Award-winning projects in Florida.
Pineda Causeway Water Transmission Mains
CHA CONSULTING, INC.
Client: City of Melbourne, Florida
The City of Cocoa entered into a Joint Project Agreement (JPA) with the City of Melbourne to have CHA complete permitting and design of an additional water main crossing to tie into the City of Cocoa’s water distribution system within the same Pineda Causeway corridor as the City of Melbourne’s pipeline. This project includes 39,800 feet of 16-inch water main with nine long, subaqueous directional drills that crosses beneath the Indian River and Banana River. It provides improved reliability of potable water flows, pressures and quality to residences, businesses and a Space Force Base along a 40-mile stretch of Brevard County’s barrier island.
Dames Point Bridge Electrical and Lighting
CHEN MOORE & ASSOCIATES
Client: Florida Department of Transportation District 2
The electrical and lighting improvements to the Dames Point Bridge crossing of the St. Johns River in Jacksonville included the installation of navigational lights, uplighting, plus the removal and replacement of electrical conduit. CMA was the lead consultant and Engineer of Record for the design of the project, which improves safety of navigation and extends the usable life of the bridge’s electrical systems.
Suncoast Parkway 2, Segment 1, from South of US 98 to South of W. Grover
Cleveland Blvd.
DRMP, INC.
Client: Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise
Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise (FTE) sought to add an extensive Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) to improve roadway monitoring and communication along 9 miles of new roadway and interchanges for State Road 589 (Suncoast Parkway 2). DRMP provided professional engineering services for approximately 9 miles of new alignment roadway and the interchanges with U.S. 98 and Cardinal Road. The new roadway’s ITS system has up-to-date CCTV Cameras and vehicle detection systems for reliable traffic monitoring. Driver awareness and reliability is increased thanks to dynamic message signs and advanced traffic management systems.
PD&E and Final Design for US 41 at Gulfstream Roundabout
KIMLEY-HORN AND ASSOCIATES, INC.
Client: Florida Department of Transportation District 1
The primary goal of the U.S. 41 improvements is to improve multi-modal mobility along the highway’s corridor, provide a safe, convenient and attractive crossing for pedestrians and bicyclists, and improve connectivity and circulation between Sarasota’s Downtown Central Business District and the Bayfront area. Improvements consist of replacing the signalized intersection with a multi-lane roundabout that enhances connectivity, circulation and safety. Other improvements include installation of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) signal system and raised pedestrian refuge islands, adding new sidewalks and pedestrian walkways.
Multi-Use Pathway Phase 1 and Wetlands Trail Boardwalk
MCKIM & CREED
Client: City of Gulf Breeze
The City of Gulf Breeze wanted to build nearly four miles of a 10-foot-wide multi-use pathway to accommodate various forms of wheeled and non-wheeled transportation along its primary connector loop roadway and its connecting residential streets. As the civil and site engineer, McKim & Creed designed an ADA-compliant pathway within the existing constrained right-of-way, sidewalk and line of sight safety improvements at all side street connections to the loop, and new bike lanes along both sides of the loop. McKim & Creed also developed plans for a pile-supported wooden boardwalk that crosses low-lying wetlands adjacent to the primary project area.
I-4 Ultimate Wrong Way Driving Deterrent
STANLEY CONSULTANTS
Client: Florida Department of Transportation
The Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) group of TEDS, a Stanley Consultants company, designed wrong-way detection systems for 43 interstate ramps along Interstate 4 in Orlando. The detection systems are designed to complement the recently opened I-4
“Ultimate” program, adding safety features to all ramps. The safety features were implemented after a wrongway driver entered the express lanes of I-4, resulting in a serious crash and injuries. TEDS expedited the design on the interchanges where direct connection to the express lanes was built.
Pineda Causeway Water Transmission Main Image Source: chasolutions.com
Multi-Use Pathway and Wetlands Trail Boardwalk Image Source: mckimcreed.com
Milton, Helene Unleash Destruction Across Florida
BY THOMAS EHLERS, STAFF WRITER
Hurricane Helene viewed from space over
The proverb might claim the best things come in pairs, but the reality of Hurricanes Helene and Milton making landfall nearly two weeks apart was far from positive.
Helene made landfall near the Big Bend – the area’s second direct hit of the 2024 hurricane season – on Sept. 26 as a Category 4 hurricane with sustained winds of 140 mph. Milton followed closely behind, rapidly intensifying over the Gulf of Mexico into a Category 5 before its eventual Category 3 landfall near Siesta Key on Oct. 9.
Both storms brought different, significant impacts as they took divergent paths through the state. Helene’s swift movement brought hurricane-force winds through the Panhandle — winds that made it as far North as Atlanta — while storm surge in Steinhatchee reached nearly 10 feet. A storm surge between five and 10 feet accompanied Milton, which dropped 12 inches of rain in Tampa and 19 inches in St. Petersburg, while the storm spawned 15 tornadoes across the southern portion of the state.
By Oct. 14, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) had approved more than $177.6 million for over 56,900 households in Florida as officials continued damage assessment from both storms. Thirty-five people were killed from Milton’s effects – more than a dozen came from Florida – and at least 20 of the more than 230 fatalities during Helene happened in the state. While Helene and Milton produced lifechanging results, they did underwhelm initial forecasts by officials.
“While the worst case scenario was thankfully avoided with this storm, this storm did still bring destruction and damage in various parts of the state,” said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at a press conference in St. Petersburg following Milton.
MILTON’S MARK
Perhaps Milton’s most visible effect came to Florida’s power infrastructure. The state had restored 4.12 million accounts by Oct. 16, less than a week after the storm, as prestaged crews across the state expedited the restoration process.
SeaPort Manatee, the primary deepwater seaport in Southwest Florida,
receives fuel, fruits and vegetables, appliances, construction materials and wood, and initial damage assessments from Milton suggested losses of $225 million. Ten of 13 on-site warehouses were lost, 3 of 10 port-owned docking facilities were lost, and widespread damage to port offices was reported.
On Oct. 14, DeSantis announced SeaPort Manatee would receive a $9.5 million award in addition to other state assistance – $5.5 million for emergency berth repairs and dredging in state waters and $3.5 million to fund immediate security needs and access control. The remaining award funds will be used to support planning activities for fortifying port infrastructure.
“With the major impact that seaports have on our state’s economy and the quality of life for our residents, it’s critical that we ensure our seaports are open and fully operational, particularly SeaPort Manatee given the significant damage they sustained following Hurricane Milton,” said Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E.
Florida’s governor echoed the need to take initiative.
“This action to get SeaPort Manatee back to full operations will benefit the people of Florida, ensure the hardening of our infrastructure for future disasters, and ensure normal life is resumed for Floridians as soon as possible,” said DeSantis. “Taking action to address these impacts now is imperative to keep Florida on the road to recovery.”
In surrounding waters, six Carnival Cruise Line ships saw itinerary shifts due to the storm and port damages, while more than a dozen other ships on numerous cruise lines announced diversions and impacts to normal operations during the storm.
Similarly, air traffic and airports across the state felt Milton’s mark, as thousands of flights were canceled or delayed due to storms that shut down St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), Tampa International Airport (TPA), Orlando International Airport (MCO), Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) for periods of time.
Additionally, Amtrak halted service between Jacksonville and Miami Oct. 7-11, and Brightline paused operations between West Palm Beach and Orlando Oct. 8-10. CSX tended to a few trail washouts in Central Florida after the storm, but outside of downed trees, few damaging effects were felt.
Engineers played a significant role in rescue efforts across the state, as Florida State Fire Marshal’s Office’s Urban Search and Rescue teams and Florida National Guard rescued nearly 1,800 individuals and 225 animals during and after the storm. These operations paralleled similar efforts by local law enforcement and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
FDOT deployed more than 2,000 team members in response to the storm, assisting in a number of avenues. Cut and toss operations by 486 crew members cleared more than 12,000 miles of roadway, while 150 bridge inspectors reviewed and cleared the more than 2,400 bridges across impacted roadways.
HEALING FROM HELENE
Helene damaged the Central Florida Pipeline, the only direct source of jet fuel to Orlando International Airport. The pipeline was shut down due to floodwaters, and TPA, PIE and Tallahassee International Airport (TLH) all saw closures during the storm.
The Panhandle’s power grid felt similar damage from Helene, as Taylor, Dixie, Suwannee and Madison counties all lost power, and several additional counties experienced outages. More than 52,000 residential properties across Florida claimed damage, with insured losses totaling more than $1 billion less than a week after the storm, according to statistics from CBS News.
FDOT crews removed more than 50,000 cubic yards of sand from roadways, including more than 14,000 cubic yards of sand from Tampa’s Gulf Boulevard. The department played a large role in Helene recovery efforts, clearing 1,400 bridges via inspection, assisting the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services with the repair of a damaged truck sensor at a Suwannee County agricultural inspection station and helping rail and utility companies with the removal of downed power and fiberoptic lines across railways.
Across the state, FDOT utilized 334 personnel and 372 pieces of heavy equipment towards road debris pickup and reviewed more than 9,000 traffic signals.
Areas like St. Petersburg felt effects from both storms. The city’s Northeast Sewer Treatment Plant was shut down in advance of Helene as a precaution for storm surge. More than a million gallons of wastewater were discharged into various bodies of water across the area. Milton caused 30 water line breaks, leading to a boil water advisory, while more than 100 traffic signals were downed during the storm.
Across the Big Bend area, fishing infrastructure sustained damages from the collective hurricane season. On Oct. 23, DeSantis announced $1 million from the Florida Disaster Fund to the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida to rebuild boat slips, docks and important infrastructure, including fish houses and aquaculture businesses.
The state’s saltwater recreational fishing impact tops $9.2 billion annually, while commercial fishing generates $197 million in commercial food fish sales, according to statistics from the FWC.
"The Big Bend's fishing industry took a direct hit from hurricanes Debby and Helene, and so did the hardworking Floridians who make their living on the water," said DeSantis. "Today’s investments will help to rebuild critical waterside infrastructure and help get Floridians in the fishing and aquaculture industries back to full operations.”
As the state pursues a return to normalcy after a busy 2024 hurricane season, state officials acknowledged the everpresent danger the growing number of Floridians face in the fall, but they also presented a number of decisions – like pre-staging linemen, physical resources and state agencies and assets – that led to positive impacts during these natural disasters.
“There’s nothing new under the sun,” said DeSantis in a Oct. 10 press conference in Fort Pierce. “This is something the state has dealt with for its entire history, and it is something we will continue to deal with.
“I think what has changed is we have 23 million people, a storm that hits is likely to hit more people and property than it would have 100 years ago so the potential for that damage has grown. What’s also changed is the prevention, to prestage the assets."
Hurricane Helene struck the Big Bend area of Florida on Sept. 26, causing flooding and destruction across a wide area of the state’s Gulf Coast.
ASCE
And the ASCE Award Goes to…
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CIVIL ENGINEERS
FLORIDA SECTION
Each year, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Florida Section acknowledges its members and their contributions to the field of civil engineering.
The ASCE Florida Section seeks nominations for awards through its local Branches. These nominations are then reviewed and selected by the Award Committee, which includes recent past presidents. Notably, some award winners have also received recognition from Region 5 of ASCE, covering Florida, Puerto Rico, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama and Georgia.
Here is a look at this year’s Florida winners:
2024 Project of the Year: Sanibel Causeway Emergency & Permanent Reconstruction
The communities that benefit from our completed projects enjoy the advantages of modern infrastructure, often without giving much thought to the effort it takes to bring it to life. To honor these contributions, we celebrate exceptional civil engineering projects within each Branch’s region through the "Project of the Year" award, recognizing the dedicated teams behind the accomplishments.
The 2024 Project of the Year is the Sanibel Causeway Emergency & Permanent Reconstruction, nominated by the Southwest Branch. While the west coast of Florida suffered devastating floods during Hurricane Ian in September of 2022, no community was as devastated as Sanibel Island. The Causeway to the
Robert Best, Jr., PE, M.ASCE
island suffered catastrophic washouts, rendering rescue and rebuilding efforts difficult. Through innovation and a streamlined approach, the causeway reopened with temporary lanes in just eight days, and permanent lanes by December 2023.
The reconstructed Sanibel Island Causeway was named 2024 Project of the Year
2024 Sustainable Project of the Year:
Cocoplum 1 Pump Station and Force Main
Upgrades
This award recognizes outstanding civil engineering achievements within each Branch’s region for a project with these goals: The extent to which innovative design or construction methods improve economic, social, and environmental sustainability; the promise shown by innovation to inspire future sustainability efforts, evidenced through Envision rating and/or Institute, Section, or Branch awards; the degree of public involvement during planning, design, construction and operations; and the level of collaboration demonstrated by significant participation from other disciplines.
The 2024 Sustainable Project of the Year is the Cocoplum 1 Pump Station and Force Main Upgrades submitted by the Miami-Dade Branch. This station, owned by the City of Coral Gables, has earned an Envision Bronze Award, recognizing stakeholder involvement and delivery of community benefits, climate resilience and protection of the surrounding lands. The upgrades to the wastewater system in this project are the latest example of the city’s commitment to infrastructure sustainability.
2024 Young Engineer of the Year:
Jamie Wilson, P.E.
Jamie Wilson, P.E., has shown exemplary service and unwavering commitment to both ASCE and her community. By supporting current and future engineers, she has played a pivotal role in advancing the engineering profession through strategic, long-term objectives. Furthermore, she has become a source of inspiration for her peers, motivating them to excel and contribute their utmost to the engineering community.
2024 Government Engineers of the Year:
Tzufit Boyle, P.E., and Patty Therrien, P.E.
Tzufit Boyle, P.E., has been an integral member of the ASCE Palm Beach Branch and the ASCE Florida Section since 2011. She has held various leadership roles, including serving as the Past President, President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Scholarship Chair for the Palm Beach Branch Board from 2012 to 2016. Additionally, she has been actively involved in the Florida Section Board, serving as the Communique Co-Chair, Past President, President, President-Elect, Conference Chair, and District 1 Vice President.
Tzufit has also contributed as a published author in the 2023 Winter and Spring Engineering Florida magazine. She currently serves as an ASCE Region 5 Governor for the ASCE Florida Section. Beyond her professional involvement, Tzufit volunteers for student events and competitions, such as the Steel Bridge competition, and is a Committee Member for Scouts BSA Troop 100. She also
participates in the Eagle Board of Review for Scouts BSA Everglades District.
Patty Therrien, P.E., an active member of the East Central Florida Chapter of the Environmental Water Resource Institute (EWRI) for over 27 years, has made significant contributions to the field. Throughout her career, she has mentored and trained younger engineers, emphasizing design methodology, research, field investigations and technical report writing. Her commitment to quality control and assurance has led many of these engineers to obtain professional certifications and become respected professionals.
Patty’s dedication extends to supporting students in STEM education by raising scholarship funds and engaging with middle and high school students. She has also participated in panel discussions on civil engineering and volunteered at local MATHCOUNTS® competitions.
2024 Engineer of the Year:
Dan Schroeder, P.E.
Dan Schroeder, P.E., has successfully led the implementation of several prominent stormwater retrofit, flood mitigation and ecosystem restoration-type projects in Southwest Florida. Together with innovative technologies, Dan’s water management strategy includes multi-benefit functionality to serve a diversity of stakeholders. Combining the trifecta of flood mitigation provision, nutrient removal benefits and passive recreational amenities has yielded a track record of grant-funded and award-winning water management projects.
Dan is not only an expert in his field, but he is also a deacon at his local church, demonstrating the commitment he has made to his community and displaying his good character above all. He has published numerous articles in his field and provides continued involvement in the engineering community.
2024 Byron Spangler Award:
Steve Goldstein, P.E.
This award recognizes an engineer that has achieved special lifetime accomplishments in engineering and public service. This award is given intermittently, at the discretion of the Board when a member of the Section has achieved such accomplishments. It was last awarded three years ago and, before that, a decade ago.
Steve Goldstein, P.E., has continued to provide his support since his term as the ASCE Florida Section President (2011-2012). He continues to be a tome of knowledge in all things ASCE and guides the Section through bylaws and operating manual revisions.
Skyway Wave Attenuation Devices
BY LINDSEY RANAYHOSSAINI, STAFF WRITER
The Florida Coast has been barrelled by hurricane after hurricane in recent years, and as those storms have become both more frequent and volatile, finding innovative solutions to improve coastal resiliency is imperative.
One such solution has been installed by the Florida Department of Transportation and Transystems in Bradenton along the south causeway of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Wave Attenuation Devices (WADs) are large triangular pyramids constructed from fiberreinforced concrete that have been placed 50 to 200 feet offshore at two different locations on the west side of the fishing pier access roads.
This $6.3 million project was completed in October 2023 with the goal of not only protecting the Interstate 275 connector – a critical roadway for freight, commuters and tourists – but also promoting seagrass growth for future bridge replacement projects.
Created by Living Shoreline Solutions, WADs are designed to reduce a wave’s energy by absorbing the energy rather than deflecting the wave. Ultimately, this reduction in wave energy helps prevent storm surge damage to coastal roadways, as repeated wave energy can erode the embankment that holds up a road.
PASSING THE TEST
Less than a year after installation, the WADs were put to the test when Hurricanes Helene and Milton made landfall in September and October.
“Hurricanes Helene and Milton tested the wave breaking ability and resiliency of the new (WADs), and they performed as expected,” said Brent Setchell, P.E., district drainage design engineer for FDOT District 1.
“While the fishing pier access road did sustain minor damage after the storms, most of the damage occurred in areas outside of the WADs or was attributable to significant storm surge.”
Furthermore, the devices have contributed to two acres of seagrass growth to date. Prior to their installation, there were almost no patches of seagrass present in the area. The WADs fulfilled their role by allowing seagrass roots to take hold on the seafloor without being swept away by waves.
Setchell said that seagrasses create ideal habitats for fish and other marine life, and the WADs contribute to the habitat.
“Their unique hollow shape with triangular cutouts allow small and medium size fish to hide from prey and freely swim in and out,” Setchell said. “Additionally, each time we have been snorkeling at the WADs we’ve seen schools of bait fish swimming between the WADs. The new seagrass beds and WADs offer excellent nursery habitat for an abundance of marine life.”
HOW WADS WORK
The triangular pyramid shape of the WADs provides structural stability and helps the devices to stay in place after repeated impacts. The inside and base of each WAD is hollow, and the devices feature angled cutouts that allow a wave to enter. The flat side of the devices face the wave direction, providing maximum surface area for initial impact.
When a wave passes through a WAD, it hits the three angled inside walls, reducing the wave’s energy. The two rear-facing sides allow the wave to exit with a significant reduction in velocity. Waves typically die out three feet behind the structures, and a wave’s process through the WADs removes sediment from waves and deposits it on the shoreward side.
The WADs used along the Sunshine Skyway Bridge were built in two different sizes to match the water depth in the areas where they were placed. The smaller WADs are 8.5 feet tall and weigh approximately 8,500 pounds, while the larger WADs are 10.5 feet tall and approximately 13,000 pounds. The devices are held in place by their own weight and are arranged in two rows to force impact with waves for maximum energy dissipation.
These massive structures stick out of the water two or three feet to allow for visibility to boats.
HOW THEY’RE MADE
The WADs were constructed and installed in three phases. Specially designed steel fabrication molds were used for casting, and the fiber-reinforced concrete took about 48 hours to cure.
They were then transported by barge to the desired location and placed by crane in the water at a rate of 10 WADs per hour. A total of 844 devices were deposited.
Though the WADs have proven successful, Setchell said that FDOT does not currently have plans to install them elsewhere.
“While we are very pleased with the early success of the WADs project, we are still assessing their effectiveness and evaluating future projects which may benefit from WADs,” Setchell said.
The Wave Attentuation Devices performed as expected during the recent hurricane season, protecting the causeway and creating a habitat for seagrass and marine life. Photo courtesy of FDOT.
ASHRAE
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEATING, REFRIGERATION, AND AIR-CONDITIONING ENGINEERS
The ASHRAE Winter Conference Comes to Orlando
Join us in Orlando Feb. 8-12 for the 2025 ASHRAE Winter Conference and AHR Expo. Register for the conference to connect with peers and thought leaders, get inspired and see the latest innovations at the AHR Expo.
See what’s new from the industry's major manufacturers, innovative start-ups and everyone in between as 1,600 exhibitors put their latest products and technology on display.
Your conference badge provides entry to the AHR Expo, which brings the entire HVACR community together to showcase the latest products and technologies, learn from industry experts, engage in cross-disciplinary conversations, and grow businesses and careers.
The conference offers nine technical tracks and over 100 sessions, with professional development hours (PDHs) for licensed Professional Engineers, AIA Learning Units, and GBCI Continuing Education for LEED Accredited Professionals.
TECHNICAL TRACKS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
• Energy Storage and Grid Resiliency
• Pathways to Building Decarbonization
• Artificial Intelligence
• Industrialized Construction: Opportunities and Challenges
• Ventilation and Indoor Environmental Quality
• Future-Proofing the Built Environment
Spotlight
Sponsored by:
• HVAC&R Fundamentals and Applications
• Systems and Equipment
• Refrigeration and Refrigerants
In addition, registration includes 12-month access to technical session recordings, session quizzes, PDH certificates and downloadable conference papers.
Furthermore, ASHRAE’s technical and standard project committees will meet and are open to the public. Meeting times and locations will be listed in the schedule online.
The ASHRAE Learning Institute offers 20 courses during the 2025 ASHRAE Winter Conference. Half-day and fullday courses with PDHs are available to add on to your registration for an additional fee.
For more information and to register, visit www.ashrae.org/conferences/2025-winter-conferenceorlando.
IN-PERSON
100+ Technical Sessions (Technical Program)
Meeting of the Members Plenary Session + Keynote
Networking Coffee Break
Sponsor Tech Talks
PDH Certificates of all attended Technical Sessions
Access to the Member Lounge
Complimentary morning coffee and snacks
All Benefits of the Virtual Package
Access to AHR Expo
VIRTUAL
Up to 10 Livestreamed Technical Sessions
100+ Technical Sessions Recordings*
80+ Downloadable Conference Papers
Recordings of Sponsor Tech Talks*
Access to Technical Session Quizzes and PDH Certificates*
Recording of Meeting of the Members Plenary Session*
Recording of 2025-2026 2025 President Dennis Knight’s Presidential Address*
*On-Demand after the Conference for 1 year
C-51 Reservoir Adds Water Supply Reliability to South Florida
BY JOE VANHOOSE, MANAGING EDITOR
What started as a collaboration in 2006 among the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) and a cohort of counties and communities to address the region’s water challenges has now resulted in the award-winning C-51 Reservoir.
Phase I of the $160 million project, which stores 14,000 acre-feet of excess stormwater runoff supply, was developed as a multi-agency, public-private partnership. The state-of-the-art infrastructure, with engineering expertise provided by Black & Veatch, promotes affordable, long-term water supply quality, resilience and sustainability for eight utilities that are contending collectively with impacts from population growth, climate change and requirements to protect the region’s water.
The cohort included Palm Beach, Broward, and MiamiDade counties; the cities of Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Sunrise, Plantation, Hollywood, Hallandale Beach, Dania Beach and Margate; Lake Worth Drainage District; Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection; and Palm Beach Aggregates (PBA).
PBA, an aggregate mining company, owns the property in western Palm Beach County that is now home to the reservoir. The reservoir utilizes previously mined cells in an active aggregates mine for below-grade storage within a unique, relatively water-tight limestone unit.
It is also located adjacent to the confluence of two major canals, which allows for ready water supply to the reservoir via an existing intake structure and subsequent distribution to downstream municipalities using an existing pump station and South Florida’s canal system built in the early 1900s for drainage, flood protection and water storage purposes.
“Because of the unique geology, the reservoir could be constructed with relatively little dewatering (pumps installed within the bottom of the mine pit),” said Jeffrey Beriswill, southeast dams practice leader for Black & Veatch. “Seepage from surrounding areas was also limited by the early construction of a low-permeability soilbentonite cutoff wall along the reservoir perimeter.”
The tie-in with the adjacent active reservoir required wellplanned and executed construction in close cooperation with the SFWMD. Black & Veatch provided engineering during construction – including review of submittals and RFIs and construction-related design – as well construction management, construction quality assurance, a redesign of water control structures, operation and maintenance plans, and final construction certification.
“It is a great example of private industry developing and implementing an innovative solution to provide an economical, reliable water source to a consortium of water utilities,” Beriswill said.
Palm Beach Aggregates, an aggregate mining company, owns the property in western Palm Beach County that is now home to the reservoir. The reservoir utilizes previously mined cells in an active aggregates mine for below-grade storage within a unique, relatively water-tight limestone unit.
Photos provided by Palm Beach Aggregates.
Engineer: Black & Veatch Corporation
Client: Palm Beach Aggregates, LLC
FES
FLORIDA ENGINEERING SOCIETY
Congratulations to our 2024 Award Winners
Each year, the Florida Engineering Society (FES) recognizes leaders in our engineering community with a series of individual awards. Selections are made by the FES Awards Committee, and recipients this year were recognized at our annual conference in July.
This year’s award winners include:
2024 Engineer of the Year:
Jose L. Acosta, PE
Acosta is the Executive Vice President for Chen Moore and Associates. He served as President of the Miami Chapter of the Florida Engineering Society in 2022 and 2023 and currently serves as Florida Chair for the ACEC/PAC.
Acosta is known for his hundreds of successful Florida public and private civil engineering utility, municipal and land development projects as a Senior Engineer and Engineer of Record.
Young Engineer of the Year:
Enit Medina, PE
Medina brings 11 years of engineering expertise to her role as Project Engineer at Halley Engineering and Contractors. She focuses on conventional, design-build and cost-saving initiatives, delivering outstanding results throughout her career.
During her tenure, she has also distinguished herself in maintenance of traffic and large design-build contracts, showcasing her exceptional technical and management skills. Her proficiency extends to successfully completing designs for a diverse array of transportation projects in South Florida.
Outstanding Service to the Engineering Profession Award:
Carnot
W. Evans, PE
A Senior Project Manager with Dewberry, Evans has 19 years of experience in delivering program management services for transportation agencies and managing a wide range of roadway and transit projects. During his career, he has worked on a variety of transportation projects for local, state and federal clients across six states.
Evans currently serves as the Deputy Program Manager for the General Engineering Consultant to the Central Florida Expressway Authority. He is responsible for managing several complex design and construction projects and helping DFX deliver on its $4.17 billion Five-Year Work Plan.
Outstanding Technical Achievement Award:
Christopher Frank, PE
One of two award winners, Frank understands the importance of combining sound engineering with local community needs while producing innovative, clear and thorough construction plans to ensure successful project delivery. During his 23 years in the transportation engineering industry, he has taken multiple transportation projects from the PD&E study phase, through design optimization, and supported them through final construction.
He serves as President of the FES Central Florida Chapter board and is a graduate of the Florida Engineering Leadership Institute Class of 2024.
Outstanding Technical Achievement Award:
Dana Gillette, PE
Gillette is a Principal Associate at Erdman Anthony, bringing over 30 years of experience as a civil engineer and land surveyor in Florida. She has designed numerous projects for both public and private clients.
In 1995, she founded Crossroads Engineering and Surveying, serving as president until its merger with Erdman Anthony in 2004. At Erdman Anthony, Gillette continues to lead the civil engineering efforts for the firm’s Florida operations.
ENGINEERS DESIGNATED AS
FELLOW MEMBERSHIPS
FES Fellow memberships are awarded to PE members in recognition of their high character and distinguished achievements. It is given to those members who best exemplify the ideal image of the Professional Engineer. It is desirable that the candidate has a well-rounded record of achievement in education, employment, and professional and public service activities. This year’s FES Fellow Memberships are awarded to:
Rick Acree, PE
Acree has 30 years of experience as a Geotechnical Engineer and has worked on hundreds of local municipal, Florida Department of Transportation, private sector and commercial projects throughout the state. He is currently a Senior Principal and Vice President at Terracon.
He has been active with the ACEC Florida Transportation Committee since 2002 and is the incoming President of the ACEC Florida Executive Board.
2024 Fellow Members of FES Engineering Faculty Member of the Year
Carlos M. Chang, PhD, PE, Florida International University Chang is recognized as a global expert on infrastructure specializing in pavements and bridges. His research focusses on innovative concepts, methodologies and practical tools for engineering and management applications.
Gustavo Quesada, PE
With a focus on transportation infrastructure, Quesada has more than 30 years of diversified technical experience in the capacity of a consulting engineer, construction manager and program manager for major construction projects. He is an equity partner with BCC Engineering, LLC., where he supports growth and development in his industry.
He has led more than 30 projects, and his academic work is documented in over 200 publications. Driven by a passion for education, Change has developed an extensive teaching portfolio with more than 20 courses. He is committed to integrating cutting-edge research with engineering best practices to sustain infrastructure systems.
A SPARKLING EXAMPLE:
Improving I-95 With District 4’s First Diverging Diamond Interchange
By Richard Reitz, WSP
The Completed Glades Road Diverging Diamond Interchange over I-95. Photo provided by Smith Aerial.
Not long ago, traveling along Interstate 95 (I-95) in Palm Beach County — one of the most heavily traveled sections of urban interstate in the nation — could be a rough experience for motorists.
Today, thanks to the implementation of express lanes to a perennially congested 5.8-mile corridor of I-95 along with innovative interchange design at State Route 808/Glades Road, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has found its diverging “diamond” in the rough.
Congestion relief and future growth potential were crucial considerations when the decision was made to design the first diverging diamond interchange (DDI) in FDOT District 4 as part of the $148 million I-95 Express Lanes Phase 3B-2 design-build (DB) regional road network improvement project.
“The DB team, led by Prince Contracting, LLC, had innovative ideas to improve the Glades Road interchange that was working at capacity and projected to be over capacity with failing levels of service in design year 2040,” said Yamila Hernandez, senior vice president project manager for WSP, the engineering, environment and professional services firm that designed the highway project. “The DDI was presented and approved as an alternative technical concept (ATC) to the FDOT concept design during the procurement of the project. This innovative transformation improved traffic operations, reduced congestion and enhanced safety.”
The DDI concept stood out by delivering $5 million cost and schedule savings through the elimination of right-of-way acquisition, utility relocations, a flyover bridge and a substantial reduction in retaining walls.
Compared to a conventional diamond interchange, the DDI reduces vehicle-to-vehicle conflict points by 50% and helps lessen severe crash incidents. DDIs eliminate left-hand turns into oncoming traffic by forcing traffic to flow from the right side of the road to the left side of the road, then back again.
“Think, veer left to turn left,” Hernandez said.
CONSISTENT, DEPENDABLE TRAFFIC MOVEMENT
A little more than a decade ago, with more than 200 miles of major highways and 50 major
intersections in Palm Beach County experiencing conditions close to or over capacity following rapid population growth, FDOT began to consider its options to keep traffic moving and motorists safe.
In 2013, traffic in this corridor was exceeding 200,000 vehicles per day, and projections anticipated an increase to 300,000 vehicles per day by 2040. FDOT completed a project development and environment study to improve capacity along Interstate I-95, which led to this extensive roadway and interchange project.
ACEC Florida: Outstanding Special Roadway Project Award
DBIA Florida Region: Design Build Award
Florida Transportation Builders’ Association (FTBA): Florida’s Best in Construction Interstate
FTBA: Florida’s Best in Construction Design-Build
The result was the I-95 Express Lanes Phase 3B-2 design-build project along I-95 from just south of Glades Road to south of Linton Boulevard in Palm Beach County. It included improvements at the I-95 interchange with State Route 808/Glades Road and along State Route 808/Glades Road from Renaissance Way to West University Drive.
Within this 5.8-mile section of I-95, existing HOV lanes were converted to managed lanes and widened to produce two tolled express lanes in each direction while maintaining the existing number of general use and auxiliary lanes.
Implementation of the DDI provided enhanced safety at the Glades Road interchange by:
• Reducing the number of conflict points
• Improving intersection sight distance
• Implementing wrong-way driving countermeasures at the off-ramps
• Providing shorter pedestrian crossings, a shared use path along the interchange and buffered bicycle lanes along Glades Road
• Installing enhanced overhead signage and lane guidance pavement markings in advanced or decision points
• Eliminating an additional signalized intersection at Airport Road
“These capacity improvements have provided motorists and bus transit users with a viable option for consistent, dependable and safe north/south traffic throughout the tri-county area in southeast Florida,” Hernandez said.
A primary benefit of the project was the improved safety that came with the new interchange configuration. It is projected that the DDI will result in a 33% crash reduction at the SR-808/ Glades Road and I-95 interchange, and a projected 9% crash reduction along SR-808/Glades Road.
The intersection design made it safer for other road users as well.
“To enhance pedestrian and bicyclist safety and accessibility within the DDI, we strategically placed a separate shared use path pedestrian bridge in the median along Glades Road between the crossover intersections,” Hernandez said. “This innovative placement of the pedestrian bridge eliminated the need to acquire additional right of way or reduce lane widths, ensuring efficient, safe traffic flow for all users.”
The pedestrian bridge along Glades Road over I-95 and the replacement of the Clint Moore Road bridge over I-95 also utilized Florida I-beams — pre-stressed beams developed by FDOT to improve the design of bridge beams — to maintain a consistent aesthetic throughout the corridor.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Convincing the public that an unconventional concept like DDI would address some of their biggest concerns took some effort.
Throughout design and construction, an educational campaign showcased how DDI’s are safer, provide greater traffic throughout and improve the level of service for the interchange and the arterial.
Outreach strategies included a construction-specific website as the virtual home front for the project, a 32-hour mobile billboard drive through campaign, a media blitz with educational videos, door-to-door contact, media days, social media blasts and attendance at other public events.
Throughout construction, a monthly “Coffee with the Contractor” meeting was held to discuss construction concerns and issues. Here the public could speak with Prince Contracting, as well as the project’s public information officer and a construction engineering and inspection representative.
“We explained how the DDI, in terms of traffic levels, significantly improved traffic along Glades Road and the interchange ramps that eliminated spill over onto I-95,” Hernandez said. “Overall, the DDI was economically, aesthetically and operationally superior, creating a landmark for the city, its residents and politicians.”
Started in 2019 and despite the challenges of maintaining a construction schedule through the Covid-19 pandemic, the project was completed 21 days ahead of contract time and within budget.
“Through unwavering collaboration among all team members, the DDI serves as a successful model for how active participation can drive the creation, development and implementation of innovative infrastructure,” Hernandez said.
Enhanced overhead signage and lane guidance pavement markings were installed in advance of decision points for driver safety. Photo provided by FDOT District 4.
The new shared use path and pedestrian bridge crossing was built through the middle of the interchange along Glades Road over I-95. Photo provided by WSP.
FLORIDA ENGINEER OF DISTINCTION:
NASA’s Teresa Kinney
Deep Space Logistics engineering chief eyes gateway to the moon and Mars
By Joe VanHoose, Managing Editor
NASA’s Artemis campaign has the agency once again looking toward the moon for scientific discovery, technology advancement and, ultimately, to learn how to live on another world in preparation for human missions to Mars.
The first Artemis mission – an uncrewed flight test of the Space Launch System and the Orion spacecraft around the moon – was successfully completed in late 2022. Artemis II, scheduled for late 2025, will be the first crewed flight test of the spacecraft.
For NASA engineer Teresa Kinney, the focus has already shifted to Artemis IV and V, which will send astronauts to live and work in humanity’s first lunar space station, Gateway. The Orion module will dock with Gateway, and from there the astronauts will transfer into the lunar landing module.
Kinney is the chief engineer for NASA’s Gateway Deep Space Logistics (DSL) Project office at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The first female chief engineer at Kennedy, Kinney is the technical authority for the group, responsible for evaluations and recommendations to the DSL management and the Gateway program, ensuring safe and reliable delivery of needed equipment, commodities and payloads to the moon-orbiting station.
“We are the way you get cargo, commodities to the Gateway, which will basically be a lunar space station,” she said. “You have to be able to get things up and back. There will be some visiting vehicles but they may be bringing people.
“So we’re bringing all the other stuff.”
AN EARLY PASSION
As a child, Kinney was drawn to equipment and technical matters and wanted to know how everything from her bike to her parents’ car worked. Her interests sharpened toward space as NASA’s Apollo missions aimed for the moon in the 1960s.
Her dad was in the military, and the family was living in Germany during Apollo 11.
“It seems like it was late at night, and we got to stay up and watch the first steps on the moon,” Kinney remembered. “It was so exciting to me.”
Her interest grew back in the U.S. as her family’s vacations would take them to Florida and to Kennedy Space Center.
The Gateway space station hosts the Orion spacecraft and SpaceX's deep space logistics spacecraft in a polar orbit around the Moon, supporting scientific discovery on the lunar surface during the Artemis IV mission. Image provided by NASA.
By the time NASA started the Space Shuttle program, she knew she wanted to work on that. She earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Alabama in Huntsville as a way to be close to NASA opportunities at nearby Marshall Space Flight Center.
“I got my degrees so I could work on that,” Kinney said. “Working on shuttle payloads was a great way to get going.”
A CAREER OF GROWTH
Kinney began her career as a NASA contractor in Huntsville, Ala., in 1984, supporting the agency’s Space Shuttle solid rocket booster, Spacelab and International Space Station (ISS) programs.
The work within the different programs provided Kinney with massive challenges, which she embraced. The different groups also gave her different perspectives to consider in her work.
“I got a lot more passionate about looking at things from different perspectives to make sure we didn’t accept something we didn’t understand well,” she said.
Kinney moved to Florida in 2005 and worked as a dynamicist for NASA’s Launch Services Program. She became an assistant chief engineer for the agency’s Ares I-X Ground Systems and supported NASA’s Space Transportation System chief engineer in resolving technical hardware and analysis issues.
A golden sunrise surrounds NASA’s Space Launch System and Orion spacecraft for Artemis I on the pad at Launch Complex 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Aug. 22, 2022. The first in a series of increasingly complex missions, Artemis I provided a foundation for human deep space exploration and demonstrated NASA's commitment and capability to extend human presence to the Moon and beyond. Photo by Ben Smegelsky for NASA.
Prior to her work with the DSL program, she was the Integrated Performance lead engineer on the Commercial Crew Program for more than a decade. She led evaluations of integrated vehicle flight analyses, testing and certification, as well as any resolution of technical issues related to rocket and spacecraft systems, including during abort and landing phases of flight.
Three years ago, the chief engineer on the DSL team turned to Kinney for detail support. To Kinney, the assignment sounded like another nice challenge and something new to study. When that engineer was promoted, Kinney served as acting replacement for two years and was formally selected as chief engineer in 2023.
PUSHING FOR DIVERSITY OF THOUGHT
How do you manage a team of engineering rock stars as they help design the details that may get NASA to the moon and Mars?
“You do the work a little step at a time,” Kinney said. “It’s about looking at lofty goals ahead and determining what we can take away from what we’ve learned working on different projects. It’s taking those baby steps and a lot of back and forth to make sure we’re not missing anything, which is my favorite part.
“We’re all looking out for each other to see how we can all be successful.”
DEEP
Kinney uses her vast experience working on different programs with different groups to help move the DSL team along. She maintains a culture where everyone feels able to bring what ideas they have to the table.
“What I try to do is leverage the best of what people are doing and make sure they are thinking about what they may not have thought about,” she said. “I hopefully can help people take a step back and consider how we can improve things, what we need to be doing, and how we can do better.”
The thing about considerations, Kinney says, is that everyone carries their own on their backs. Kinney’s considerations have formed from what she has learned over her career, which are different from others on her team who came up in different programs and projects. The resulting cross pollination is what drives innovation forward.
“One of my chief engineer mentors says that none of us are as dumb as all of us. I love that statement and I think about it all the time,” she said. “The last thing you want is a bunch of people to all agree, because you may not be thinking things through. By encouraging diversity, you will have people thinking things through a lot more comprehensively.”
ADVICE TO NEW, ASPIRING ENGINEERS
As Kinney sees her industry, now is the best time over her 40-year career to get involved in engineering.
“There are more programs, more startup companies, more efforts going on now than I have ever seen,” she said. “There are all these different avenues, and technology is moving so fast. This is a great time to be an engineer, and there are a lot of options out there.”
For young and aspiring engineers, Kinney recommends engineering conferences, which are often cheap or free to attend for students and are a great way to make connections and learn more about opportunities within the field. Taking internships or co-ops is invaluable, even if the opportunities are outside someone’s bubble.
Taking different opportunities may uncover a hidden passion, she said.
“Just knowing how things work and what you’re passionate about, sometimes that takes some on-the-job time,” Kinney said. “Don’t be afraid to try something new. I’ve always found I grow so much and learn so much when I try something new.”
The Moon is seen rising above NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket with the Orion spacecraft aboard at Launch Pad 39B at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. NASA’s Artemis I flight test was the first integrated test of the agency’s deep space exploration systems: the Orion spacecraft, SLS rocket, and supporting ground systems. Photo by Bill Ingalls for NASA.
SMPS
SOCIETY FOR MARKETING
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FLORIDA CHAPTERS
Where Strategy Meets Creativity: A Spotlight on SMPS and What’s Ahead
The Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) is a powerful and diverse network, connecting thousands of marketing and business development professionals in 58 chapters throughout the U.S. and Canada. With the vision of transforming business through marketing leadership, this network serves as a platform for fostering collaboration and achieving success for the communities we serve daily.
“I have found in the short time I have been with SMPS that people are very friendly and welcoming. It seems to be a wonderful community full of people willing to help each other grow. I am looking forward to monthly coffee connections, Adobe InDesign courses, and other e-learning and networking opportunities. As a new Business Development employee, SMPS has great tools to help me learn the industry and I look forward to getting to know other members.”
—
ALYSSA
LONG Business Development | Long and Associates
The Tampa Bay chapter of SMPS is a vibrant and influential network for AEC professionals spanning all stages of their careers. Members are encouraged to build lasting working relationships that can foster firm partnerships, organize industry events that bring clients and consultants together, and continually embrace new learning opportunities. Our members are the cornerstone of any chapter's success; several new SMPS members are sharing their experiences so far with the organization.
“I left teaching to enter the AEC industry in the marketing sector, and SMPS has been a friendly presence throughout my continued introduction to all things marketing, and I am eager to attend more events in the coming months as I grow my career. I have felt that they truly want the best for all marketers in Tampa just through their website/ social media/emails and look forward to building connections.”
— SARAH HEAD Proposal Coordinator | Halff
“Joining SMPS and becoming involved with the local chapter was a pivotal step in my professional growth. I was a onewoman marketing department at a small firm, where marketing and proposal development had previously been handled by principals. SMPS provided access to professional training and insights on industry best practices. It also allowed me to build relationships with more seasoned AEC marketers who provided advice on how to handle difficult situations, critical professional training, and insights into industry best practices.”
— KASS IA ALAMM
Director
“Since joining SMPS, I've seen significant growth in my professional development. The organization has been essential during my transition from individual contributor to the Director of Marketing, providing not just a network, but a true community of supportive professionals who quickly became trusted colleagues
and friends. Through SMPS, I've gained access to valuable industry best practices that prepared me to achieve my CPSM (Certified Professional Services Marketer) certification. I am SO grateful to be part of this dynamic organization that consistently elevates the marketing profession within the AEC industry.”
— LISSETTE CALLEJAS CPSM, Director of Marketing | Sweet Sparkman
“I joined SMPS shortly after starting my first job out of college, in a brand-new industry. After two years, I can confidently say that SMPS has been a great platform for my professional development. By getting involved with events and networking with other experienced members, I was able to envision all the potential career opportunities in AEC marketing.
The unwvering support and guidance from fellow members further encouraged me to pursue my master’s in business administration with a specialty in digital marketing and marketing strategy. SMPS is invaluable to any new marketer and will continue to be my go-to professional development resource for years to come.”
— AMANDA HAMENDE Marketing Coordinator | Patel, Greene and Associates
THE STRATEGIC VALUE OF SMPS MEMBERSHIP FOR AEC FIRMS
SMPS is essential for businesses in the AEC industry because it equips marketing leaders with the tools, skills and connections needed to drive growth and success. Through professional development programs, certifications, and access to industry best practices, SMPS helps marketers stay ahead of trends and refine strategies that directly benefit their firms.
The extensive networking opportunities strengthen relationships with peers, clients, and industry influencers, enhancing visibility and creating new business opportunities. Membership also demonstrates a firm’s commitment to employee development, aiding in talent recruitment and retention. By advocating for the critical role of marketing, SMPS helps firms integrate marketing into their strategic goals, ultimately contributing to winning new projects, building client relationships, and ensuring long-term success.
SMPS Tampa Bay is ready for an exceptional year ahead, building on the remarkable growth, engagement, and enthusiasm we have cultivated over the past few years. As we step into 2024-2025, we are excited to accelerate this
momentum with a dynamic and forward-thinking strategic plan centered around three core pillars:
• Mentorship & Professional Development: Delivering meaningful opportunities for entry-level marketers to grow and thrive within the A/E/C industry.
• Leadership Resource Hub: Becoming a go-to resource for marketing and business development leaders seeking guidance, tools, and inspiration.
• Elevating AEC Marketers: Advocating for the critical role of marketing professionals while fostering collaboration across the industry.
These pillars go beyond simple goals; they embody SMPS Tampa Bay’s dedication to meeting the unique needs of our members. By leveraging our resources and expertise, we create a robust network that empowers members, associated firms, and clients to drive innovation and achieve growth.
We invite you to join us on this exciting journey. Stay connected by following us on LinkedIn and attending one of our upcoming events. Your active participation strengthens our network, builds lasting community connections, and enriches the AEC industry as a whole. Together, we can accomplish great things!
CONSTRUCTING COMMUNITY
IN FLAGLER COUNTY:
Graham Swamp Trail and Pedestrian Bridge
A joint project between Flagler County and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the Graham Swamp Trail and Pedestrian Bridge project has added an extensive trail network for pedestrians and cyclists through natural marshlands and swamp areas.
While the pedestrian bridge over State Road 100 may be the signature structure for the project, the added trails and raised boardwalk through Graham Swamp exposes bits of Old Florida to tourists and residents alike.
“A big part of the project was not just the bridge, but we had three elevated walkways that make their way through Graham Swamp, which is part of Florida that
most people don't get a chance to see. It is a true Florida swamp,” said Amy Stroger, project manager for Flagler County.
“It gives people the opportunity, especially if you're not from Florida, you can see part of Florida that you would not otherwise get a chance to see.”
The project was made possible by Local Agency Program (LAP) funding. Projects eligible for LAP funding include safety projects, traffic calming projects and bicycle and pedestrian facilities. FDOT is responsible for distributing federal funding to approved LAP projects, as well as overseeing the project’s progress.
The A-frame design of the Graham Swamp Trail Bridge pays homage to the nearby Flagler Beach Pier. Photos provided by England-Thims & Miller and Kisinger Campo & Associates.
THE STRUCTURE
Kisinger Campo & Associates led design and permitting for the project, with Chief Structures Engineer Simon Hagedoorn ensuring that the specifications of the design were reflected in the construction.
The design included a bridge crossing over State Road 100, with two 138-foot beams meeting to rest on one pier in the median of the road. These large beams create the majority of the structure for the bridge, extending to embassy walls on each side.
Jason Ellins, CEI land development project manager from England-Thims & Miller (ETM), served as the project administrator, coordinating with the contractor to ensure that each step of the project was fulfilled correctly.
“We did run into a few unique items with this project. Putting in the raised boardwalk and getting the piles to stay exactly where
we wanted, we had multiple interactions with those,” Ellins said. “There were some nuances there that this team worked together on; it was probably one of the key reasons that it was so successful.”
When the covering for the bridge was first installed, it received social media attention for its design. The A-frame style was chosen to pay homage to the Flagler Beach Pier.
The frame’s stainless steel material was initially a point of contention because of its reflection of sunlight, but a coat of patina was applied that has since dulled the reflection. Despite this initial reaction, the overall feedback has been positive.
“When I go out there, I really have heard nothing but enthusiastic, positive feedback from the users of that facility,” Stroger said. “And the longer it has been out there, I think the more positive feedback I'm getting.”
Beams were constructed on the Graham Swamp Trail Bridge to keep animals from being guided toward the road.
ON AND AROUND THE TRAIL
The project also included the installation of raised boardwalks through marshland of the Graham Swamp.
The project is located within conservation lands, giving visitors the opportunity to view Florida’s wildlife in an undisturbed state. In fact, wildlife was a key consideration in the design process. Permitting for the trail portion of the project was strict in order to preserve the surrounding marshland as much as possible.
“What we agreed upon was that we would only impact a 25-foot wide area corridor for the construction, whereas the trail was 14 feet wide plus the width of the railing,” Hagedoorn said. “We were using up most of that area just to fit the permanent structure in. So you're kind of building in the footprint.”
Keeping the construction as close to the raised boardwalk as possible kept from disturbing the surrounding environment and local wildlife. This was also considered with the bridge’s dimensions, where the beams that support the bridge stand much further away from the road than one may expect.
“The permitting agencies were worried that the animals that would go to this wall would be directed to the road,” said Hagedoom. “So they wanted that length of bridge to be well beyond where the road was so that the animals, if they got to where the approach was, wouldn't be guided into the road. [The animals] have a corridor to pass through.”
FURTHER EXPANSION IN FLAGLER COUNTY
The Graham Swamp Trail and Bridge is one part of a larger plan for the expansion of bicycle and pedestrian paths through Flagler County. In connecting the Lehigh Trail North of S.R. 100 to sidewalks on the south side of the road, the county looks forward to further expansion.
“This is a forward-thinking project because we have an extensive trail system on the north side of (S.R.) 100, but we're still in the planning stages for an extensive trail system south of 100,” County Commissioner Andy Dance said.
Under the leadership of Dance, the newest phases of the expansion are being planned. The process of receiving approval and funding from the LAP program is ongoing, but there is already excitement for what’s to come.
“In five or six years, we'll have miles and miles of trail that the citizens in our community and our visitors will be able to enjoy,” said Flagler County Engineer Hamid Tabassian. “This is going to be great for Flagler County, while at the same time preserving the environment and basically opening that beautiful landscape for these passive recreational activities that, after a long day, make your day.”
Professional Development Award
Amplifying Accomplishments: Florida’s Brightest Engineering Students Receive Recognition Beyond the Classroom
By Lauren Heighton, Staff Writer
Within the State of Florida, the next generation of engineers is developing. From high school STEM programs to graduate students studying lightning, their innovation is inspiring.
Here are a few students who have been recognized this year for their talents and contributions to engineering in their respective fields of study.
YOUNG SCIENTIST AWARD
37th International Conference on Lightning Protection
Megan Mark, Florida Tech
Megan Mark, a PhD candidate at Florida Tech, traveled a far way from home for her award. In September, she attended the International Conference on Lightning Protection in Dresden, Germany.
Her presentation, “High-Speed Video Camera and Geostationary Lightning Mapper Measured Signatures of Cloud-to-Ground Strokes with and without Significant Continuing Current,” focused on the specific part of a return stroke
within a lightning flash that is especially dangerous. The presentation is a piece of the greater research Mark works on at Florida Tech.
“There's this continuous low-level slowly varying current, around tens to hundreds of amps that lasts for up to half a half second or even longer,” Mark said. “It can be one of the most dangerous parts of lightning. It can cause wildfires. It can cause damage to infrastructure such as power systems and houses and buildings.”
Above and Right: The University of Florida team won the ASCE Concrete Canoe Competition for a fourth time. Photo courtesy of Brennan Kade.
Megan Mark (left) and her fellow students from Florida Tech.
Mark looked at a space-based protection system, called Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM), to see if it was effective in tracking the continuing current.
“We were able to do this really in-depth study comparing our direct ground measurements using the current data from the strikes, the high-speed video and electric field data, and comparing it to the satellite,” said Mark.
Mark found that the GLM was not as effective as it was prior to updates the satellite underwent. However, the research is a contribution to the continuing improvement of detecting lightning.
At the conference, Mark received the Young Scientist Award, an honor awarded to only four participants at the conference. The award recognizes recipients under the age of 35 for their presentations at the conference and significant contributions to the field of lightning protection.
During the conference, Mark presented her research and attended workshops on a wide scope of issues related to lightning.
“The sessions I normally go to are mostly lightning detection and lightning physics, whereas this conference was really great because it was not only those things, but it was also the protection part of it,” Mark said. “It was really cool to see how my work can actually affect that kind of thing. Everything that my fellow graduate students and I work on, it's all going towards that, the modeling of lightning and protection from lightning to help keep us safe.”
At Florida Tech, Mark is working to finalize her dissertation, titled “Investigating Global Lightning Observed from Ground and Space, and its Relationship to Solar Activity.”
FIRST OVERALL ASCE Concrete Canoe Competition
University of Florida Concrete Canoe Team
Gainesville native Brennan Kade has been working towards victory since before his acceptance to the University of Florida. A third-year civil engineering student, Kade currently serves as a project manager for the UF Concrete Canoe Team.
“Our high school would take tours of UF all the time, and we would get exposed to all the engineering teams and engineering opportunities there,” Kade said. “We had a tour one day that took us to Weil Hall, the civil engineering building, and the team was actually working on the canoe for that year.”
It was love at first sight, and Kade knew he wanted to be a part of the Concrete Canoe Team when he got to college. Now, he’s held three positions on the team and has grown into a knowledgeable asset.
Kade was a competing member at the 2024 ASCE Civil Engineering Student Championships in Provo, Utah, where the team took first place with their canoe, “The Springseeker.” This win sealed their fourth national title at the competition, a testament to the thriving program they’ve built.
The process of building The Springseeker began in Fall 2023, with hundreds of hours put in by team members on the final product. These design aspects make up part of the competition’s scoring, as does performance on race day.
“It's a lot of labor, it's a lot of standing, it's a lot of sometimes arduous things, and to see the payoff of that versus other schools is very impressive, and it makes you kind of fall in love with the process that we have,” said Kade.
Kade acknowledges how much value is placed in the transfer of knowledge as students grow into their roles. He spent his first year as a technician and then moved up as a hull design captain the next year.
“As a hull design captain, one area that we explored was we wrote a whole new bunch of Python code to help with our process, and the team this year has actually expanded upon that and changed a lot of it, and they
just picked up right where we left off because we had begun training them to,” Kade said. “It's supposed to be a seamless transition.”
This year, he shares the responsibility of managing the entire Concrete Canoe process with his co-project manager, Alicia Demicco. They’ve got their eye on the prize for next summer’s competition already.
“One of the big calling cards of this team is how we reinforce all the practices that made us national champions last year,” Kade said. “How do we improve all the little inefficiencies in our process and buff out the kinks in how we make our product?”
LOCKHEED MARTIN AWARD
31st Annual Solar Car Challenge
Florida Atlantic Solar Owls
In July, Fort Worth, Texas hosted 32 teams of high schoolers for the 31st annual Solar Car Challenge. Teams from across the country competed over several days to showcase their hard work utilizing alternative energy to power roadworthy cars.
The Solar Owls, a team of Florida Atlantic University High School students, were among the teams who competed. In addition to the Lockheed Martin Award for overall engineering excellence, the Solar Owls were awarded the Renda Carter Award for their outstanding video and scrapbook.
“The kids had a blast,” said Allan Phipps, director of the CANE Institute for Advanced Technologies. “They learned a lot about themselves, about teamwork, about time management and sportsmanship.”
Phipps has overseen the process of creating the car since the beginning, over five years ago. The completion of the car made it the first four-seater cruiser division car in the state of Florida.
“Some of our students got involved in our solar car as middle schoolers, as seventh and eighth graders, kind of as the wrench turners, if you will,” Phipps said. “Some of those students actually stepped up and became our Lead CAD, lead mechanical and lead electrical, and they are now seniors about to graduate.”
To construct the car, students collaborated to make a mold design. Though their first attempt wasn’t successful, they pivoted and found a new way to construct it out of flat stock.
“The students learned a lot of life skills as far as going out and learning how to ask the questions and ask for money,” said Phipps. “They wrote several grants and won some small grants, but really it was corporate sponsors that really helped make the project happen.”
With donations of carbon fiber, glue, suspension materials and more, the Solar Owls logged over 15,000 hours in assembling the car. In all, 26 students traveled to the Texas competition.
The FAU High School Solar Owls with their vehicle, which took more than 15,000 hours to build. Photo courtesy of the Solar Owls.
While the Solar Owls were limited in how many students they could bring to Fort Worth, other competing schools were in need of help in order to participate. Four passengers are required at all times for the cruiser division of the competition, and they must rotate as the car can reach high temperatures while racing.
“One team only could afford to send six members, so eight of our team members got certified to ride in their car, ” Phipps said. “If the heat index goes over 95 when a student is in the car, they're limited to two hours in the car and then they have to go immediately into the air conditioning for an hour.”
The Solar Owls placed second in the cruiser division of the competition, and they gained the experience of aiding another team at the same time.
casting, and vibration consolidation, strength testing. Rinker's representatives also QA/QC process and provided design recomleading to insightful discussions and great netopportunities.
Out & About
Florida Engineering Society's Florida Engineers in Construction (FECON) Practice Section Tours the Rinker Materials' Pipe Plant MIAMI, FL
FECON members experienced firsthand how reinforcement and pipe cages are manufactured — covering the entire process from pipe mold preparation, concrete casting and vibration consolidation to curing, and strength testing. Rinker's representatives also demonstrated the QA/QC process and provided design recommendations, leading to insightful discussions and great networking opportunities.
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