Engineering Georgia November/December 2023

November | December 2023

[2023]

GOOD NEWS

REDEFINING

RETENTION

VOLUNTEER

SPIRIT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

20 COVER STORY:

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Good News 2023

THE PULSE News Coverage From In And Around The Engineering Community

THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS, THOUSANDS OF HOURS—AND FOR ONE GEORGIA ENGINEER, THOUSANDS OF FEET IN THE AIR

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POLITICAL PULSE

34 44 Redefining Retention

Volunteer Spirit

THE ROLE OF FIRM CULTURE IN EMPLOYEE COMMITMENT

ACEC GEORGIA'S JUNIOR BOARD AT WOODLANDS GARDEN

Stay Up-To-Date With Political News That Affects Engineers In Georgia

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ASSOCIATION NEWS Updates From The Associations That Make Up The Georgia Engineering Alliance

66

A LOOK BACK A Back-Page Throwback Picturing Georgia’s Most Historic Landmarks

Publisher: Michael “Sully” Sullivan

EDITORIAL BOARD

Editor-in-Chief: Brett Hillesheim Creative Director | Designer: Sabrina Tongren www.in8-design.com Contributing Editors: Jennifer Head Editorial Intern: Emma Crochet Contributing Writers: David Caraviello Brett Hillesheim Christy Tarallo Accounting Services Manager: Melisa Beauchamp Advertising Sales Manager: Jennifer Head ACEC Georgia 229 Peachtree Street NE Suite 1800 Atlanta, GA 30303 jennifer.head@acecga.org (404) 665-3539

SARAH BATCHELOR SMPS Atlanta STACEY CHAPMAN Croft Architecture and Engineering STEPHANIE DAMMEN-MORRELL Hussey Gay Bell LIGIA FLORIM PE, WTS Atlanta THOMAS GLUECKERT PE, PTOE, ITS Georgia JENNY C. JENKINS PE, VHB CATHERINE JOHNSON AECOM / NSBE CHRIS LYTLE SEAOG ROBINSON NICOL PE, PTOE, ITE Georgia RANDY RIEBEL PE, F.NSPE, Meng / GSPE JOHN PRIEN GEF JOHN PIERSON PE, ASCE Georgia MIKE RAMOS SAME THOMAS TRUE PE, LS, Maser Consulting SASHA UGI Croy Engineering KYLE WILCOX ASHE Georgia

Send change of address to: ACEC Georgia 229 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 1800 Atlanta, GA 30303 or email editor@engineeringGA.com

Facebook.com/EngineeringGA @Engineering_GA www.EngineeringGA.com Engineering Georgia 2023 is published bi-monthly by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Georgia (ACEC Georgia) and its partner associations ASCE, ASHE, GEF, GSPE, ITE, ITS, SAME, SEAOG, SMPS and WTS. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited.

In8 Design, ACEC Georgia, and its partner associations ASCE, ASHE, GEF, GSPE, ITE, ITS, SAME, SEAOG, SMPS and WTS, as well as their representatives, employees and agents, are held harmless from any claim, demand, liability or action on account of, or in any way arising out of, the client’s advertising, products and services, or its participation in Engineering Georgia.

Atlanta Post

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Hopefully, I am stating the obvious here, but one of the primary purposes of Engineering Georgia magazine is to celebrate the amazing things engineering industry professionals do every day to make our world a better place. Most of the time when we do that, we are talking about what they do in their “day jobs” – designing the places we live, work and raise our families and all of the infrastructure that supports that.

Georgia’s engineering community is well known for building better communities through the design and construction of buildings, highways, bridges, libraries, schools, airports, water treatment and power facilities, parks & trails and so many other things that improve the quality of everyday life. As incredible as those things are, that is the job of an engineering professional.

But each year in our November/December issue, we celebrate what we like to call “engineers doing good.” These are the stories of all of the ways that engineering professionals across our state engage to help people and build better communities - through charitable & philanthropic programs, volunteer work, mentoring programs, and countless other ways in which the time, talent, and treasure of the engineering community are contributed to help those in need.

At this time of year when we should all be thankful for the many blessings we’ve been given, I feel blessed to be able to work on behalf of such a wonderful industry filled with

individuals who do so much – professionally and personally - to make our world a better and brighter place.

I am also grateful for the support we receive for this magazine from our readers and advertisers. We love getting suggestions from you on how we can make it better and more valuable for you and your business and if you have any of those kinds of ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at sully@acecga.org or on my cell at (770) 356-3769 to let me know.

I wish for every one of you a wonderful Christmastime and a peaceful and prosperous New Year!

GET SOCIAL SULLY@ACECGA.ORG 770-356-3769 @MICHAELLSULLY MICHAELLSULLY MICHAELLSULLIVAN

Michael L. "Sully" Sullivan President / CEO, ACEC Georgia Publisher, Engineering Georgia

KENNESAW STATE’S ENGINEERING STUDENTS SHOWCASE INNOVATION AT 13TH ANNUAL PUMPKIN LAUNCH

Kennesaw State University's annual Pumpkin Launch, held at the Marietta campus, is a significant event for engineering students, showcasing their skill in building innovative pumpkin-pitching devices. In its 13th year, the event offers a practical and collaborative platform for engineering students to Photo courtesy of Kennesaw State University demonstrate their mechanical design skills. Participants compete with various creations, from conventional catapults to more creative designs like a spider-like robot. Sponsored by local organizations such as Marietta NDT, Henssler Financial, and GeoSurvey, the Pumpkin Launch exemplifies the hands-on, innovative approach to engineering education at Kennesaw State University.

Strategically positioned within the Atlanta Perimeter and adjacent to Gray Television’s Third Rail Studios, Assembly Studios stands out with its advanced infrastructure, tailored to meet the complex needs of filmmakers and content creators. The site, historically the General Motors Assembly Plant, has been transformed into a hub expected to generate over 4,000 jobs, thereby stimulating economic growth throughout the Metro Atlanta area and reinforcing Georgia's position in the film industry. This development comes at a time when Georgia is recognized for having the fastest-growing film industry in the nation. With a single year's production spending surpassing $4 billion, according to the Georgia Film Office, Assembly Atlanta is set to significantly contribute to these burgeoning numbers, solidifying the state's reputation as a powerhouse in the entertainment sector.

ASSEMBLY STUDIOS CELEBRATES

Photo courtesy of Grenzebach

GRENZEBACH MARKS 35 YEARS IN THE U.S. WITH INNOVATIVE AUTOMATIONFEST AND OKTOBERFEST CELEBRATION

Photo courtesy of HGOR

GRAND OPENING OF INNOVATIVE SOUND STAGES

Gray Television announced the grand opening of Assembly Studios at Assembly Atlanta in Doraville, GA, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the state's film and television industry. In 2021, Gray Television acquired 135 acres for a visionary mixed-use complex, dedicating 43 acres to the state-of-the-art film and production studio space of Assembly Studios. Now, just two years later, the facility boasts 19 cutting-edge sound stages, ready to cater to the elite of the entertainment industry. These stages offer comprehensive amenities, consolidating all production needs within a single expansive location.

The project, a collaboration of expertise from various engineering firms, includes civil engineering by Kimley-Horn, structural engineering by PES Structural Engineers, and environmental evaluations by UES, showcasing the convergence of multiple disciplines in creating this landmark development.

Grenzebach, a German-based company with its U.S. headquarters in Newnan, Georgia, celebrated its 35th anniversary in the U.S. by hosting its biennial Automationfest on October 5, 2023. This event, attended by around 260 customers, partners, and industry leaders, including Newnan's Mayor and the Coweta County Chamber of Commerce President, focused on showcasing the latest innovations in manufacturing automation. The festival featured interactive technology sessions, seminars on VR/AR and energy efficiency, and an exhibition hall with smart manufacturing solutions. A panel discussion, moderated by Grenzebach’s CEO John Fluker, highlighted the importance of artificial intelligence in future manufacturing.

The event concluded with an Oktoberfest celebration, honoring the company's Bavarian heritage. N

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November | December 7

GEORGIA BOOSTS LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE WITH $112.7 MILLION IN LOANS TO 14 COMMUNITIES AND THE NATURE CONSERVANCY

In a significant boost to infrastructure development across Georgia, the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) awarded a substantial $112.7 million in loans to 14 Georgia communities and The Nature Conservancy. This funding, announced on November 9, 2023, is set to drive a range of vital water, sewer, wastewater, and land conservation projects. The loans were distributed to various communities, with notable allocations including $2.18 million to Bowdon for drinking water improvements, a $790,000 clean water loan and a $1.065 million drinking water loan to Broxton, a significant $60 million conservation loan for Bryan County, and $6.44 million to Cumming for clean water initiatives. Other recipients include Gibson, LaFayette, McDonough, Oglethorpe, Royston, Social Circle, Sparta, Talbot County, Toccoa, and Waycross, each receiving funding for diverse projects aimed at enhancing their local infrastructure and environmental stewardship.

ATL AIRPORT CIDS LAUNCH INNOVATIVE AUTOMATED TRANSIT NETWORK PILOT TO ENHANCE AIRPORT DISTRICT MOBILITY

The ATL Airport Community Improvement Districts (CIDs), in collaboration with several partners, have launched a Request for

8 Engineering Georgia

Proposals for an Automated Transit Network (ATN) Demonstration Pilot at the airport district. This initiative seeks to enhance mobility and connectivity by exploring innovative transit solutions that offer greater efficiency and sustainability. The pilot program is an opportunity for industry leaders to demonstrate their advanced autonomous transit technologies, aiming to improve the transportation system around the world's busiest airport.

This project is expected to improve accessibility and economic development opportunities, while ensuring reliable transportation for all stakeholders, including employees in the area.

GEORGIA TECH ENGINEERING STUDENTS WIN BIG IN STORMWATER MANAGEMENT DESIGN AT GAWP 2023 COMPETITION

Students from the College of Engineering at Georgia Tech recently showcased their talent and innovative thinking in sustainable stormwater management at the Georgia Association of Water Professionals (GAWP) 2023 Student Design Competition. Their project, titled “Duluth Middle School Green Stormwater Infrastructure Retrofit,” not only won them first place at this regional competition, but also earned them recognition and a $5,500 award. This accolade allowed the winning team, composed of students Lucy Bricker, Makaela Edmonds, Isabella Hernandez, and Olivia Verret, along with their advisor, Professor of the Practice Sharon Just, to participate in the prestigious Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference (WEFTEC) international student design competition in Chicago. There, they represented Georgia Tech among 34 teams,

Left to right: Lucy Bricker, Isabella Hernandez, Professor of the Practice Sharon Just, Makaela Edmonds, and Olivia Verret. Photo courtesy of Georgia Tech competing for additional prize money and demonstrating the advanced skills and innovative approaches being cultivated at Georgia Tech in the field of civil engineering.

CHA CONSULTING ANNOUNCES BRAND REFRESH AND LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE TO SHOWCASE INTEGRATED ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS

CHA Consulting, Inc. (CHA), a multifaceted engineering and consulting firm, has unveiled a strategic brand refresh and a new website to better represent its evolution and integrated, solutionsfocused approach. The updated brand, including a new logo and website, emphasizes CHA's commitment to providing innovative solutions in various sectors, including manufacturing, renewable energy, transportation, water management, and more. This rebranding initiative, highlighting CHA’s values of helping people and improving the world, aims to showcase the firm's continued leadership and vision in the engineering industry, according to CEO Jim Stephenson. A

the pulse [ news briefs ]

November | December 9

2MNEXT

announces two new promotions: Saketh Enukonda was promoted to Project Manager. A Civil Engineering graduate from Texas A&M University, Enukonda joined 2MNEXT in 2017. He specializes in foundation inspections, particularly at HartsfieldJackson Airport. His expertise includes assessing various foundation systems, Saketh Enukonda conducting quality tests, and evaluating site and soil improvements. Enukonda holds several testing and inspection certifications from institutions such as ICC, ACI, PTI, and GDOT. His projects at Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, such as the ATL West Parking Deck and Concourse C Midpoint Expansion, highlight his problem-solving skills and commitment to excellence. Enukonda's passion for his work and commitment to excellence are evident in every project he undertakes. His ability to challenge conventional practices and investigate the root causes of challenges sets him apart as a problem solver and innovator.

Michael Carter

CROY

proudly announced the promotions of Michael Carter, PE and Patrick Lenton, PE. Carter, now Vice President of Aviation, leads all technical aspects, including design and project delivery, for the firm’s aviation projects. In addition, Lenton, PE is now serving as Director of Aviation Client Services, where he’s focusing his efforts on strengthening Croy’s existing client relationships with more than 20 general aviation clients, while also expanding the firm’s footprint across the Southeast.

Haley Carmack to Human Resources and Communications Business Partner.

Carmack is a seasoned HR and communications specialist with a diverse industry background. She possesses a bachelor's in finance and economics, as well as a master's in HR management. At 2MNEXT, she has revamped HR by prioritizing employee retention and satisfaction through innovative technology and a Haley Carmack strong emphasis on company culture.

Carmack now spearheads 2MNEXT's marketing and communications, including events and social media. Actively engaged in ACEC Georgia, she serves on the ACEC Georgia Junior Board of Directors, participating in Inclusion and Diversity and STEM Workforce Development task forces. In her role as Business Partner, Haley will work as a key member of the leadership team to leverage people-focused strategies to drive organizational performance.

HEATH & LINEBACK

Naveed Jaffar

10 Engineering Georgia

(a BCC company) welcomes Naveed Jaffar, PE, PTOE, as its Traffic Engineering Division Manager in its Marietta, Georgia office.

Jaffar brings a wealth of experience in traffic engineering, transportation planning, traffic operations, and ITS. He holds Professional Engineering licenses in over half of the states across the U.S. and has significant design-build experience.

KCIis excited to welcome Kate Shearin,

Kate Shearin

PE, PTOE to its Duluth office as a Senior Project Manager. Shearin brings over 10 years of traffic operations experience to help grow the Traffic Engineering and Intelligent Transportation Society (ITS) practice. She is active in the Georgia Section Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) and is a newly elected board member of ITS Georgia.

Matthew Crenshaw

Additionally, KCI welcomes Matthew Crenshaw, PE also to its Duluth office as Senior Project Manager. Crenshaw brings 15 years of design experience, primarily focused on Interstates and Express Lanes, and is actively leading the development and growth of the younger PMs within the KCI Georgia offices. He is actively involved in the GA Section of American Society of Highway Engineers.

CROFT & ASSOCIATES

Brittany Hobbs

Patrick Lenton

announces the promotion of Brittany Hobbs to the position of Marketing Manager. Hobbs has been with the company for four years and prior to this promotion held the position of senior marketing coordinator. She is responsible for the coordination and final production of client RFQ/P responses, proposals, project photography, and CROFT’s social media strategy. She also manages the oversight of all brand guidelines and graphic design.

engineering the pulse [ on gathe [ feature move ]]

Rob Jacquette

Erik Grandowski

KECK & WOOD is proud to announce that Rob Jacquette,

PE, PTOE, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer, and Erik Grandowski has been promoted to Chief Marketing Officer.

Both Jacquette and Grandowski have been serving the A/E/C industry for years. Their individual abilities to lead and strategize for the future, combined with their acumen for developing strong business practices, intuition for learning, and natural ability to communicate across all levels of the company are beneficial to the continued growth of the firm.

Jenni Olivo

Ben Morden

Keck & Wood is also proud to welcome three new individuals to the firm: Jenni Olivo, PE has joined the firm as a Senior Project Manager, specializing in providing stormwater leadership and solutions for clients. With 25+ years of engineering and project management experience, and a GSWCC Level II Engineer certification, Olivo will be pivotal in leading the firm’s stormwater work across the Southeast.

Ben Morden, PE is a Project Manager and a GWCC Level II certified engineer who excels in designing many aspects of community roadways, such as stormwater, utilities, erosion control, signage, and markings. His 10+ years of experience have been honed through the full project spectrum, from initial design and project estimating to construction administration and jurisdictional reporting.

Danielle Emmett has joined the firm as Controller. With 20+ years of professional growth from corporate accountant to controller, Emmett’s experience will expand Keck & Wood’s financial view while strengthening its internal policies. N

Danielle Emmett

November | December 11

NEEL-SCHAFFER

announced that Steve O’Neal has joined the firm in the newly created position of Director of Information Technology. O’Neal brings 27 years of experience working with complex technology in large-scale organizations. He most recently served as IT Manager for Infrastructure Technology for a Dallas-based specialty Steve O'Neal construction and infrastructure firm and has held IT management positions at multiple companies. O’Neal will lead the implementation of new processes to serve the organization’s overall needs better, allowing the firm to focus on providing excellent service to its clients.

THOMAS & HUTTON

welcomes the following new hires in its Savannah office. Andrea Curtis as a Marketing Coordinator II with our Marketing department. A native of Long Island, NY, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Multimedia Journalism from Georgia Southern University, and her Master of Science Andrea Curtis in Marketing, with a Concentration in Digital and Social Media from The University of Alabama. Curtis brings her previous marketing experience including copywriting, content creation and strategy, and market research to Thomas & Hutton.

Matthew Ruffin as a Designer I for the Civil department. Ruffin is a Georgia Southern graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. He is originally from Augusta, Georgia, and has gained all of his professional experience there, ranging from general and residential construction to roofing and concrete work.

Matthew Ruffin Melissa Westbrook as the Payroll Administrator in the Finance department.

Westbrook grew up in Aiken, South Carolina and attended Aiken Technical College. She has been in the HR industry for several years, and most recently was doing payroll for a staffing agency.

Melissa Westbrook

Thomas & Hutton is pleased to announce the promotion of Andy White, PE to ATL Civil/Site Development Department Manager. White serves as a Project Manager in the Atlanta office for Thomas & Hutton and has over 14 years of experience in the planning, design and management of land development, infrastructure, and civil engineering projects for both private and public sectors throughout the southeast. His core focus areas include residential,

mixed-use, office-institutional, commercial, infrastructure, and municipal projects. He utilizes his industry knowledge to provide planning and engineering guidance, project management and value to clients and projects.

Thomas & Hutton is also excited to announce its newest Professional Engineer (PE) in Georgia. Catherine Soto passed the Principles and Practices of Engineering Civil exam with the Water Resources and Environmental Department examination and satisfied the experience requirements needed to become a PE. Soto is a Project Manager and joined Thomas & Hutton in 2022.

Catherine Soto She holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Oregon State University. As a Project Manager, Soto is responsible for planning, designing, permitting, and constructing water and wastewater infrastructure projects for a variety of municipalities and private clients.

Thomas & Hutton also announced the addition of two new company shareholders: Cecilia Arango, CPSM and Brian Riley: Cecilia Arango, CPSM is a Certified Professional Services Marketer and oversees the marketing, communications, and community relations for Thomas & Hutton’s 10 regions in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. She earned her B.A. in English Communications and received this year’s 2023 Georgia Southern University Cecilia Arango Alumni Association’s George & Lucy Armstrong Award. Cecilia began her career at Thomas & Hutton as an intern in 2001 and upon graduation, transitioned full-time to the marketing department. Today, she leads company-wide marketing strategy and operations as the Marketing Manager.

Brian Riley is a Civil Group Leader and Senior Project Manager in the firm’s Charleston region. He attended the University of South Carolina and began his career with Thomas & Hutton in 1998 as a land surveyor before transitioning into a construction administration role followed by civil designer and became a project manager in 2005. Over the course Brian Riley of his 25-year career, Riley has played an integral role in the success of numerous projects in South and North Carolina, notably Daniel Island, Carnes Crossroads, Brunswick County Parks, and Holden Beach Middle School. He currently oversees a group of project managers and designers that work on a vast array of projects including residential, commercial, and industrial developments. A

Andy White

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the pulse [ on the move ]

November | December 13

TOP 5 FIVE Five Leadership Resources for Shifting from the Great Resignation to the Great Retention

Top Five is a regular feature in THE PULSE! Top Five explores recommendations for podcasts, books, activities, and more. In this issue, Engineering Georgia explores shifting from the Great Resignation to the Great Retention. With the effects of the Great Resignation and a looming talent shortage, engineering companies are now prioritizing the growth and retention of high-potential employees. These high-potential individuals are crucial because they bring exceptional productivity, up to four times more than average employees, and are potential future leaders for the organization. Here are five resources to help you reframe your approach to retention!

BOOK: "LOVE ‘EM

PODCAST: THE GREAT

RETENTION

Hosted by Prem Bhatia and John Duisberg,

co-founders of Cooleaf in Atlanta, Georgia, this podcast explores the shift in work dynamics and how employers can meet their employees' needs to foster a culture of retention. The podcast features insights from top business executives on building remarkable work cultures.

BOOK: "I LOVE IT HERE

WORKBOOK: HOW GREAT LEADERS CREATE ORGANIZATIONS THEIR PEOPLE NEVER WANT TO LEAVE"

by Clint Pulver

Aimed at leaders and managers, this book is a comprehensive guide to creating an engaging work environment. It provides practical ideas for creating a culture that keeps staff inspired and motivated.

BOOK: "INTENTIONAL

RETENTION: THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO HUMAN RESOURCES FOR LEADERS"

by Sean Barnard

This book introduces innovative tactics and strategies for retaining top talent in your organization. It teaches leaders how to build employee loyalty and create an environment that encourages staff to perform at their best.

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the pulse [ top 5 ]

OR LOSE ‘EM, SIXTH EDITION: GETTING GOOD PEOPLE TO STAY"

by Beverly Kaye and Sharon Jordan-Evans

Targeting managers, leaders, and HR professionals, this resource provides practical steps to develop an engagement plan that keeps workers motivated. It also offers strategies for dealing with difficult employees and creating a culture of accountability.

BOOK: "NEVER LOSE

AN EMPLOYEE AGAIN: THE SIMPLE PATH TO REMARKABLE RETENTION"

by Joey Coleman

This book offers a straightforward approach to employee retention, emphasizing the importance of developing relationships with staff to keep them loyal and engaged. It provides strategies for creating meaningful conversations that build trust within your organization.

the pulse

GEORGIA NUMBERS by the

8TH THE FIRST TELEPHONE LINE

GEORGIA

ranks as the 8th most populous of the 50 United States.

500+1000 SANDY SPRINGS is

1877

home to more Fortune 500 and Fortune 1000 companies per capita than any other city in the nation.

in Atlanta was established. It was a private line connecting the Western and Atlantic Freight Depot with Durand's Restaurant in the Union Passenger Station.

10,000,000 1886 THE GEORGIA AQUARIUM in

downtown Atlanta is one of the world's largest, with over 10 million gallons of water and housing more than a hundred thousand animals, including whale sharks and beluga whales.

THE GLOBALLY BELOVED DRINK COCA-COLA was

invented in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1886 by Dr. John Pemberton.

November | December 15

POLITICAL PULSE Rethinking Procurement: The Case for Qualifications-Based Selection

CHRISTY TARALLO

O

Over the last three years, inflation and supply chain issues have disproportionately affected public works projects, resulting in construction delays, cost overruns, and blown deadlines. Material and labor costs have increased so drastically that in a September meeting of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, members of Congress expressed concerns over the erosion of the purchasing power of Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funds.

This particular concern arises from the feds’ delay in appropriating these funds. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg told the committee that there may be as long as a three-year delay between the initial funding appropriation and its assignment to a specific project.

On the topic of inflation’s long-term effect, coupled with the delay in funding allocation, Rep. Garret Graves, R-L.A., asserted that “any perceived increase in investment under IIJA is actually a decrease.”

Unfortunately, these realities have caused some local governments to embrace “low-bid” procurement processes for selecting design professionals in an effort to alleviate some of the fiscal restraints these external factors have imposed on public agencies. Low-bid

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procurement refers to the process of selecting professional services based on the lowest cost proposal received during a competitive bidding process.

This way of thinking is understandable for local officials confronting the harsh reality of projects with actual cost estimates that now far exceed initial estimations. Unfortunately, low-bid procurement for the selection of design professionals is synonymous with cost-overruns, missed deadlines, and unhappy clients. For low bid procurement, the ultimate selection of design professionals comes down to a bidding process almost entirely determined by cost, rather than the technical expertise and experience of the firm.

“Qualifications-Based Selection” or QBS, is widely considered to be the superior standard for project owners whose goal is an on-time, on-budget project that meets or exceeds their expectations (and those of the taxpayers they serve). QBS refers to the process of acquiring architectural and engineering (A/E) services for public projects based on experience and technical expertise, where cost is negotiated through a formal process before a contract is awarded.

After decades of researching different procurement methods, professors Paul Chinowsky of the University of Colorado Boulder and Gordon Kingsley of the Georgia Institute of Technology, assert that QBS offers the most satisfactory results for owners, particularly for complex projects. Their findings in Savings, Innovation & Efficiency: An Analysis of QBS in the Procurement of Engineering Services (2022) stated the following: “From direct cost and schedule benefits to indirect benefits of reduced management issues and increased innovation, QBS demonstrates a clear benefit when applied across a series of project types and geographic regions.”

that fits within the owner’s budget, the owner can terminate those negotiations and begin negotiations with the second ranked firm.

Throughout the process, project owners receive the benefit of the A/E professional’s insight and expertise, which ultimately leads to a better defined scope of work that reduces complexities and upfront work for procurement officials. By considering the quality and expertise of firms rather than only the cheapest bid—which quantifiably devalues the process—QBS consistently results in higher quality design and construction. Having a team of highly qualified professionals with high quality design documents is particularly important when other external factors such as material delays and increasing construction costs cannot be controlled.

“QUALIFICATIONSBASED SELECTION” OR QBS, IS WIDELY CONSIDERED TO BE THE SUPERIOR STANDARD FOR PROJECT OWNERS WHOSE GOAL IS AN ON-TIME, ON-BUDGET PROJECT THAT MEETS OR EXCEEDS THEIR EXPECTATIONS.

Though QBS is lauded as a best practice by numerous professional associations across the nation, such as the American Public Works Association and American Bar Association, there are still misconceptions. One of those is the important role that cost still plays in a QBS selection process. Clients still have budgets that they must work within and budget considerations that must be respected. QBS is a highly competitive process that narrows the selection process of design professionals by technical expertise and experience before considering the ultimate cost of the services. Owners short list and rank firms, then enter formal negotiations with the highest ranked firm. If the two parties fail to reach a consensus on a fee and scope

It may seem as though low bid procurement would yield innovative financial problem-solving through the prism of hard cost considerations, but numerous peer-reviewed reports—based on case studies of real projects utilizing both low bid and QBS—found that low bid processes actually hamper innovation. In fact, analysis has shown that QBS is directly correlated with higher quality construction documents, schedule performance, and increased innovation.

Former Florida Secretary of the Department of Transportation Kaye Henderson did not mince words when recalling his experience with low bid procurement: “I inherited a system of selecting design professionals on the basis of competitive bidding.

The results were uniformly negative. Price-based selections for design service don’t work… Did the bidding system… lead to increasing change orders?

Yes, it did. The logic is plain. You have established a policy that regards “price” as the equivalent of “value,” and they are separate by almost 180 degrees. True value should be the goal in the acquisition of professional service, and value will not be obtained through a bid.”

In Florida, in part thanks to the astute observations of Secretary Henderson, all state and local entities are required to utilize Qualifications Based Selection for selecting A/E professionals. This is also true in Georgia for state agencies (as it is at the federal level and all but four U.S. states). It is vitally important for local governments in Georgia to consider adopting QBS as their standard for procuring design professionals to simplify the procurement process, improve project outcomes, and help alleviate the strains of the current economic climate. A

engineering [ political gapulse [ feature ] ]

November | December 17

the pulse

OUT & ABOUT Tasha Clark and Pok Hui Terrentine at Thirsty Third Thursday (T3) in Augusta

Derric Terrentine, Oscar Flite (City of Augusta), and Commissioner Don Clark (Augusta Aviation Commission) talk at T3 Augusta

Trey Wingate (WK Dickson & Co) speaks with Maurice McDowell (City of Augusta)

Guests of T3 Augusta mingle during sunset at the Crowne Plaza North Augusta Rooftop Bar

Chuck Baily (KCI Technologies) and Riley O’Brien (Advanced Drainage Systems) enjoy drinks at T3 Augusta

Zack Haney (Mead & Hunt), Ronic West (Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce), and Andrew Wright (Aulick Engineering) at T3 Augusta

Commissioner Francine Scott (Augusta City Commission) and Derric Terrentine greet one another at T3 Augusta

Armond Jenkins (CERM), David Fox (QK4), and Ashley Baumann (KCI Technologies) listen to fellow classmates present at the Engineering Leadership Academy kickoff retreat

Riley O’Brien (Advanced Drainage Systems), Shawn Fleet (Heath & Lineback), Zack Lammers (Gresham Smith), and Don Singer (BGE) listen to presenters at the Engineering Leadership Academy kickoff retreat

GOOD NEWS 2023 Thousands of dollars, thousands of hours—and for one Georgia engineer, thousands of feet in the air DAVID CARAVIELLO

H

He had grown up skateboarding and snowboarding, but once he became a father, all of Kyle Hord’s thrill-seeking adventures were put on hold. That was until the Senior Designer at Croft & Associates began working on a project with the nonprofit Extra Special People, and learned that once a year people jumped out of airplanes to raise money for the organization.

So on Oct. 22, Hord arrived at a small airport in Monroe, preparing to skydive for the first time. “I was pretty calm and collected,” he recalled.

“The only time that I got a little bit nervous is when you get in this tiny little plane. It has a plastic folding door, essentially, which is open most of the time that you're flying up. Just kind of watching everything get smaller was a little nerve-racking. But I mean, they don't give you much time to think about it once you're at the door.”

20 Engineering Georgia

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Backed by his colleagues at Croft, Hord’s effort raised $5,000 through Extra Special People’s Big Jump Festival, enough to send five differently-abled children to a week at the organization’s summer camp. It was just one of the countless good works undertaken over the past year by Georgia engineering firms—most of which did not involve leaping out of an airplane.

“It was fantastic. I would definitely do it again,” said Hord, who tandem-jumped attached to an instructor.

“It was better than I even thought it would be. I’m thinking, ‘My stomach's going to be in my mouth,’ like, when you're on a roller coaster. But it was really calming. Freefalling is pretty calm, because you're not fighting gravity or anything. You're just floating. So it was it was actually a pretty peaceful 30 seconds.”

Engineering firms across the Peach State were moved to give back in a variety of ways. Kimley Horn Traffic Engineer John Walker spent many weekends helping to move and assemble furniture provided to underserved Atlanta families by Hope by Design, a nonprofit founded by his wife Tonya. Stability Engineering provided structural design for the Chipley Historic Museum, and provided a pro-bono feasibility study for expansion and renovation of the Wylde Center, which provides programs emphasizing environmental education and sustainability. N

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November | December 21

Burns & McDonnell employees organized items at Foster Care Support Foundation in Roswell to help make it easier for foster parents searching for children’s clothes, while company interns filled 125 backpacks with school supplies to be distributed to in-need kids by United Way. EdwardsPitman Environmental employees distributed items at the Atlanta Community Food Bank, repaired gravesites at Oakland Cemetery, removed invasive plants from stream buffers in Cobb County, participated in the “Rivers Alive!” annual trash cleanup along the Chattahoochee River, and sponsored a blood drive.

“Whether it's helping preserve historic resources, working at a local food bank or donating blood, we are creating a culture of giving back so that our employees are positive examples of serving our communities,” said Josh Earhart, Senior Environmental Project Manager at Edwards-Pitman Environmental.

WHETHER IT'S HELPING PRESERVE HISTORIC RESOURCES, WORKING AT A LOCAL FOOD BANK OR DONATING BLOOD, WE ARE CREATING A CULTURE OF GIVING BACK SO THAT OUR EMPLOYEES ARE POSITIVE EXAMPLES OF SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES. That sentiment was evident throughout the state.

Employees at Aulick Engineering continued their support of the Dresden Elementary School Education Foundation, which focuses on improving literacy, by helping to maintain the grounds and building façade. Employees at Croft & Associates also undertook a number of charitable or volunteer efforts benefitting LiveSafe Resources’ Project Shine Bright, the Acworth Police Department, Allatoona Creek Park, Safe Kids Cobb and CURE Childhood Cancer.

And 17 team members from Keck & Wood helped build a large new community playground in Suwanee, with some volunteering to help despite having little-to-no experience in construction. N

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VOLUNTEERING IS SOMETHING THAT WE’RE PASSIONATE ABOUT IN OUR FIRM, AND WE’RE TRULY GRATEFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO CONTRIBUTE, ESPECIALLY WHEN FRIENDS, FAMILY MEMBERS, AND CO-WORKERS WILL BE ENJOYING WHAT WE HAVE HELPED TO BUILD FOR YEARS TO COME. 24 Engineering Georgia

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“It speaks volumes that so many members of the Suwanee area are donating their time and energy to build this playground,” says Keck & Wood CEO Keith Costley, who also participated.

“Volunteering is something that we’re passionate about in our firm, and we’re truly grateful for the opportunity to contribute, especially when friends, family members, and co-workers will be enjoying what we have helped to build for years to come.”

And then there was the great leap undertaken by Hord, who originally set out to raise $1,000 for Extra Special People—and wound up generating five times that much. Croft Senior Vice President Stacey Chapman “was my hype woman,” Hord said, helping with a final push for donations and showing up in person to cheer him on before his jump in Monroe.

“It's amazing, because I know that I'm not only helping five kids, but their families as well,” Hord said. “Some of these families have kids that require a lot of support, and they haven't taken a vacation in years. So to be able to send five kids to camp for a week, and have their families be able to go and do their thing for a week and enjoy themselves—that’s just a great feeling.” N

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November | December 25

TRASH TRAPS AND MISSING MAPS

As Erin Robinson describes it, the contraption looks like a shopping cart turned on its side, suspended on either side by pool noodles. But the device serves a very practical and important purpose—to catch trash floating down the Chattahoochee River.

Indeed, these “trash traps” help remove floating litter from Georgia’s longest river. Robinson, a Water Engineer at Arcadis, is part of a team that received support from the firm’s Local Sparks program to devise a mapping strategy that will assist the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper in finding the ideal locations to deploy the trash traps. The final result maps the 430-mile length of the Chattahoochee, with a color-coded key displaying in dark purple the areas of the river most in need of trash traps. Robinson believes the program can be replicated by other watershed groups around the country.

“I just really appreciate the beauty of Georgia rivers and waterways,” said Robinson, who undertook the program along with Arcadis team members Abby Crombie, Ramsey Cook, Coady Latimer, Amy Doneff and Keith Dunlap. “I think it's really important that we continue to maintain them so that everyone can be inspired by them. Because one of the best ways to inspire new generations of environmental stewards is to show them what beauty can come from these waterways.”

Robinson and her teammates at Arcadis also volunteered for other environmentally-minded projects such as the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper’s Sweep the Hooch event, Gwinnett County’s Sweetwater Creek Trash Bash, the Fayette County Water System Water Guardians clean-up, and Trees Atlanta’s planting day. Similarly, employees from Jacobs removed invasive plant species from Peachtree Hills Park and the Atlanta BeltLine, while teammates also took park in a Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful event at Bethesda Park and the Tucker Civic Association’s effort clean up the South Fork of Peachtree Creek. N

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ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO INSPIRE NEW GENERATIONS OF ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDS IS TO SHOW THEM WHAT BEAUTY CAN COME FROM THESE WATERWAYS.

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MICAH’S CREEK IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF THE RIGHT CLIENT PARTNERING WITH THE RIGHT DESIGN TEAM IN THE RIGHT COMMUNITY TO CREATE LONG-TERM, POSITIVE CHANGE FOR THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST.

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Practical Design Partners employees took an afternoon off from work to volunteer their time picking up trash along the bank of the Chattahoochee River while hiking at Island Ford.

Each quarter, CHA Consulting employees pick up litter along a one-mile section of Meadow Church Road in Gwinnett County, an effort which typically removes 80 pounds of litter from the highway. Burns & McDonnell employees took part in a river cleanup through the statewide Rivers Alive program.

Team members at Ferrovial cleaned up the banks of the Chattahoochee River at Vickery Creek Park, and also canoed down the waterway to collect trash. PES Structural Engineers organized a tree-planting event, while six KCI Technologies employees gathered trash as part of an Adopt-a-Highway event, and American Engineers employees did the same for Keep Cobb Beautiful. And 16 employees from AtkinsRéalis, along with their families, participated in a trail maintenance day at Sope Creek within the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area.

For Robinson, the efforts went beyond Georgia, and even beyond the United States. She was among 25 Arcadis employees from 13 different offices who took part in an event through the Missing Maps project to improve maps in vulnerable countries like Morocco, South Sudan, Iraq and Sri Lanka—which in turn can help humanitarian organizations, rescue crews, or other emergency personnel reach those areas in the event of a disaster or crisis. Robinson and her teammates made 1,952 map edits, in many cases coordinating with locals on the ground to properly identify buildings and other landmarks.

“Arcadis has put their money where their mouth is, I would say colloquially, in terms of developing people for solutions,” Robinson said. “Environmental engineering is a very peoplefacing industry, so we have to have a lot of public input, and public perception is a very big thing. So having all of our employees very involved within the community is really important. But having the support of a company behind you really makes a difference.”

MICAH’S CREEK TO MUST MINISTRIES

The homes will have a preserved tree canopy, nearby retention ponds, and protected pathways for area wildlife. But more importantly, the homes in the Micah’s Creek development of Athens will offer the economic foothold of home ownership to families earning below 80 percent of median income. The project is a product of the Athens Area Habitat for Humanity, and W&A Engineering donated $10,000 in professional services to help make it a reality.

“Micah’s Creek is a perfect example of the right client partnering with the right design team in the right community to create long-term, positive change for those who need it most,” said Scott Haines, W&A Athens director of operations, and Micah’s Creek project manager. “The first of its kind, this project will bring homeownership to families and individuals for whom building generational wealth this way would otherwise not be possible. At W&A Engineering, our mission is to build better communities for our employees, clients, and neighbors, and this project allows us to deliver on every element of that mission.” N

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The services provided by W&A, whose headquarters are in Athens, were mostly dedicated to conceptual development and property due diligence. Because the homes will be Habitatbuilt, buyers will have access to zero-interest mortgages, keeping monthly mortgage payments to an estimated at $399.

It’s a sorely needed imitative in Athens-Clarke County, where the 34 percent home ownership rate is well below the national rate of 66 percent.

“What’s so special about that initial $10,000 of in-kind services is that Habitat was able to leverage those conceptual designs to win millions of dollars in grant funding for Micah’s Creek,” said Amy Kissane, W&A Engineering’s Coordinator for Corporate Citizenship. “Together, we took $10,000 and turned it into several millions—money which will eventually fund the project.”

It’s just one example of how engineering firms across Georgia have taken steps to serve others over the past year. For 12 years, the “elves” of CHA Consulting have brightened the holidays for children in the Gwinnett County Department of Children and Family Services System—employees learn about the families they’re supporting at a Thanksgiving luncheon, host wrapping parties, and then deliver gifts, stockings, and gift cards to cover holiday meals. Through an annual golf tournament, Heath & Lineback raised $20,000 for Georgiabased MUST Ministries, which provides food, shelter, clothing and jobs to those in need.

Roberts Civil Engineering assisted several small communities in rural southeast Georgia in applying for Georgia Environmental Finance Authority grant funding so they could complete their lead and copper service line inventories.

Within two weeks, Roberts had built a scope of work and cost estimates for each municipality—which with the help of GEFA project managers, were able to successfully submit applications for funding.

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Employees at Croy collected over 4,000 toothbrushes and tubes of toothpaste for The Extension in Marietta, which has helped hundreds of adults experiencing homelessness in Cobb County reclaim their lives from drug and alcohol addiction. The company’s volunteer efforts have also helped support LiveSafe Resources and Lockheed Elementary School, stocking the pantry of the latter with boxes of breakfast cereal. Kimley-Horn helped students at Cristo Rey, an Atlanta high school that serves students of limited resources, learn job skills and make contacts through a work-study program.

Milhouse Engineering and Construction partnered with Georgia Power, Atlanta Gas Light and Milhouse Charities to launch the “iCan Girls in Engineering Georgia” initiative, a conference that included hands-on STEM activities to support young girls exploring careers in those areas. Similarly, Burns & McDonnell partnered with United Way and Georgia Tech to expose underprivileged kids to STEM activities. And Blue Cypress Consulting has been involved with Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, in addition to the Great Gwinnett Wetlands clean-up and food or toy drives around the holidays.

FIGHTING HUNGER, AND PLAYING SANTA

The Atlanta Community Food Bank fights hunger through engagement and education, in addition to ensuring those in need have access to enough nourishment to live healthy and productive lives. Stantec employees have volunteered at the ACFB three times, the most recent coming this past June— when they helped provide 7,445 pounds of food, equating to 6,204 meals distributed throughout the region.

“It was a very rewarding and productive day for the Stantec Atlanta office,” said Mike Holt, the company’s Transportation Practice Leader.

The philanthropy of Georgia engineering firms knows no bounds. At Ferrovial, employees packed over 200 backpacks for in-need students. PES Structural has been involved with efforts to end homelessness among Atlanta's LGBTQ+ youth, introduce students to engineering, and address food insecurity. Young professionals at WSP USA took part in Sweep the Hooch and the Great Gwinnett Wetlands Event, as well as packaging food at Grace Community Fellowship Church, invasive species removal at Blue Heron Nature Preserve, and volunteering with landscape maintenance at Pea Ridge Park. N

EMPLOYEES LEARN ABOUT THE FAMILIES THEY’RE SUPPORTING AT A THANKSGIVING LUNCHEON, HOST WRAPPING PARTIES, AND THEN DELIVER GIFTS, STOCKINGS, AND GIFT CARDS TO COVER HOLIDAY MEALS. engineering ga [ feature ]

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At Uzun+Case, Partner Martin Cuadra leads an effort that raises around $9,000 annually for Clark Howard Christmas Kids, which culminates in a trip to Walmart to spend the funds. At Contour Engineering/Universal Engineering Sciences, the networking group founded by Tara Lane, the company’s director of business development, raised money through a 2023 gala for My Sister’s House, which assists battered women and children in need of emergency services. In 2024 the gala will support BeLoved, which helps young girls and women get out of forced prostitution and trafficking.

United Consulting has been involved with the Yellow River Trash Bash, Habitat for Humanity, Adopt-a-Road Cleanup, and other projects.

Kimley-Horn has long been a supporter of Soccer in the Streets, which teaches both soccer and life skills to youth in low-income schools and communities. Jacobs staffers helped construct a home through Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build project, installing insulation, securing the roof truss, and securing an HVAC platform in the attic.

Braun Intertec, the parent company of Edwards Pitman Environmental, offers employees paid time off to volunteer with qualified 501(c)3 organizations, and also matches employee contributions to charitable organizations. In 2023, Aulick Engineering will again sponsor the annual “Santa Fly-In” at Augusta Regional Airport, an event that benefits the Augusta Partnership for Children and includes a party with crafts, games, and snacks. A Christmas dinner kit will be given to each family, and Santa Claus will fly in on his airplane to visit the children and give them presents.

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THEY MADE AN IMPACT ON OUR COMMUNITIES AND THE PEOPLE THAT NEED SUPPORT THE MOST. And at Pond, intern groups were tasked with collaborating on a service project that would give back to the community—an effort that led to a business causal clothing drive to support Wellspring Treasures Duluth, a non-profit that helps aid sex trafficking victims in the Atlanta area. Other groups partnered with nonprofits like Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries and the Community Food Center in Stone Mountain, for which Pond interns donated over 100 canned goods in just two weeks.

Indeed, the necessity of serving others is already being instilled into the next generation of Georgia engineers.

“They made an impact on our communities and the people that need support the most, and this is one of our cultural tenants as a company,” said Kyle Freedman, Director of Talent at Pond. “We are so proud of them and what they were able to accomplish, and look forward to the majority of them returning as interns and full-timers post-graduation.” A

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November | December 33

The Role of Firm Culture in Employee Commitment

BRETT HILLESHEIM

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FROM THE GREAT RESIGNATION TOWARD THE GREAT RETENTION

Listening to Keri Kocur, Chief People Person at VHB, it’s clear that she is passionate about VHB’s culture. “Our intentional focus on fostering an inclusive environment where employees have the opportunity to achieve their full potential makes VHB a place where people want to stay and grow their careers.” Kocur continues, “VHB’s people-focused culture enables us to provide a differentiating employee experience.” N

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In the dynamic world of engineering, the success and growth of firms increasingly hinges on their ability to retain top talent. A critical element in this equation is firm culture, a multifaceted and influential force that shapes the everyday experiences and long-term commitments of employees within an organization. Eddie Wade, Chief Operating Officer at Croy Engineering, defines culture like this, “We support our clients, we design for our communities, and we care for our employees – and culture is the link that binds these efforts together.

Culture is a critical component of our firm’s success.”

Firm culture encompasses the collective way of thinking, behaving, or working that exists within an organization. This culture plays a pivotal role in fostering an environment of participation, collaboration, and high morale, all essential for retaining skilled employees.

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“In a time when many organizations are navigating the great resignation, our workforce has remained steady and grown.

Employees are more engaged in the work they perform and the communities we serve,“ says Charlene Smart, Director of Human Resources at CERM. “Our team members bring CERM’s culture to every interaction within and outside the organization.”

A robust organizational culture is a critical driver for business growth, impacting day-to-day operations and long-term strategies.

According to the Harvard Business Review, firm culture significantly affects employee motivation and performance by maximizing positive motivators and minimizing negative factors. Additionally, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are also integral, with research indicating that culturally diverse companies are 36 percent more profitable and DEI resonates with employees, enhancing job satisfaction and retention. “People want to stay in a thriving environment where they feel safe, connected, supported, and where information is open and transparent,” Kocur adds. N

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CULTIVATING ENGAGEMENT: BUILDING A POSITIVE CULTURE FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS The crux of firm culture lies in its capacity to evolve and adapt, creating a symbiotic relationship between employee well-being and company success. A positive work culture leads not only to increased employee engagement and productivity but also to tangible profitability, linking happy employees to satisfied clients and financial gains. It's a cycle where investing in a healthy workplace culture can minimize employee churn—critical in an industry where acquiring new employees is significantly more expensive than retaining existing ones.

VHB sees the link between its firm’s culture and retention. Kocur states, “Our culture has an enormous impact on retention. Our intentional focus on fostering an inclusive environment where employees can achieve their full potential makes us a place where people want to stay and grow their careers. We have lower than industry average voluntary turnover, which is a direct result of our people-focused culture.”

To build such a culture, firms must align on clear values and foster personal connections, ensuring everyone is on the same page, thus enhancing decision-making and internal operations. Transparent goals and genuine relationships among team members encourage the sharing of ideas, fostering innovation, and exceeding minimal expectations.

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Regularly reassessing core values as the firm grows, considering employee well-being beyond the workplace, and consistent one-on-one check-ins by team leads can contribute to a supportive environment. Such a culture not only attracts top talent but ensures their commitment, promoting a positive cycle of client satisfaction and business prosperity.

But culture is not a static thing. “Croy’s culture is constantly evolving,” says Wade.

“While this can be seen as a challenge, it can also be an encouragement that there’s room to adjust and improve.

As our company grows, employees advance, and communities change, we keep a pulse on how these affect our environment and work to adjust accordingly. We believe simply setting a goal or painting a vision statement on a wall isn’t enough to bring a team together. It takes transparency, listening, tackling challenges, and including everyone to cement culture within your business.”

As engineering firms like VHB and Croy underscore the importance of a dynamic and evolving firm culture for employee retention, they pave the way for the next critical element of workplace harmony: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. These initiatives complement the ethos of a positive work culture by fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated, and all employees feel valued. DEI is not just a new buzzword but a strategic advantage, enhancing team cohesion, innovation, and, as a result, employee retention. N

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EMBRACING DIVERSITY: ENHANCING FIRM CULTURE FOR GREATER RETENTION

“If I had to choose one word to describe CERM’s efforts to make sure diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords,” Smart says, “it would be intentional. We are deliberate in our pursuit to be accessible to all applicants for employment and champion the growth and development of all employees within our team.”

In the modern labor landscape, DEI initiatives have become a vital component of workplace culture, impacting not just the ethos of an organization but its competitive edge in retaining talent. As engineering firms navigate the tumultuous waters of the Great Resignation, the call for a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment has become louder and more urgent.

“True culture cares about, and includes, everyone. As an owner and leader in our firm, I take responsibility for providing employees with every opportunity to reach their potential,” Wade says,

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Far from buzzwords, research has shown that companies that embody DEI not only outperform in profitability by a significant margin but also enjoy higher levels of employee satisfaction and engagement.

Kocur adds, “Diverse perspectives and life experience result in better solutions for our clients, communities, and internal teams. And, in an inclusive environment of belonging, employees can bring their authentic selves to work every day and really do the highest level of problem-solving.”

“Having people from varied backgrounds brings together teams that have varied experiences that can be used to build strategies and processes to improve business performance,” Smart says of CERM. “The possibilities are limitless when you draw on the experience and expertise of such a group.”

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Employees today are not just looking for a paycheck; they seek a workplace that aligns with their values and offers a sense of belonging and recognition. A demonstrated commitment to DEI can be key to employee satisfaction and, by extension, retention. In fact, studies show that employees who perceive their company's DEI efforts as lacking are less satisfied with their jobs, feel undervalued in terms of pay, and see fewer opportunities for advancement—factors that contribute significantly to their decision to stay with or leave a company.

Furthermore, as the demographic of the workforce evolves, so do the expectations of employees, who are now holding their workplaces to higher standards of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Organizations that actively embrace DEI initiatives and cultivate a culture of inclusivity find these efforts essential in

attracting and retaining a diverse pool of talent. Employees are not only more satisfied in such environments but are also more likely to stay, reducing turnover and building a more stable and experienced workforce.

But the commitment to DEI must start at the top. “VHB’s commitment to advancing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging within the firm starts with our Board,” Kocur says. “Employees integrate VHB’s core values into their day-to-day work. Everyone at VHB has the same opportunities and are encouraged to advance technical and personal development. We prioritize providing a safe and supportive environment so that everyone has an opportunity to thrive.” N

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ENGINEERING THE FUTURE: NURTURING CULTURE FOR RETENTION AND GROWTH It’s evident that the engineering sector's vitality lies in its capacity to cultivate a culture of inclusion, diversity, and genuine employee engagement. Firms like CERM, VHB, and Croy are demonstrating that the key to retention is not just in the numbers but in the nurturing of a workplace environment that values each individual's potential and contributions. Their narratives echo a larger industry trend: the intentional creation of a culture where employees don't just survive but thrive.

“If you know Croy, you know we love a good party,” Wade says. “Sure, we can throw a pizza party, host a chili cookoff, and post about our culture on social media. That all sounds good, right? Right! But, real culture embraces the hard times and the good times. Your truest culture is the average of how employees feel about your company on their worst day of the week, with how they feel on the best day of the week. If they believe in our vision, we listen to their needs, we handle problems with dignity, and we support each other – we become a team. I would rather have a strong team than a pizza party any day of the week.”

Culture is shaped by leadership that understands the critical role of fostering an inclusive and equitable environment where diversity is not only recognized but is also a driving force for innovation and excellence. As employees increasingly seek workplaces that align with their personal values and aspirations, firms that embody these principles find themselves at the forefront of the engineering industry's future.

The journey toward greater retention is paved with the foundational stones of a strong firm culture, DEI initiatives, and a leadership committed to both. As organizations strive to meet these new standards, they will find that the greatest investment they can make is in their people—cultivating a culture that is as diverse, inclusive, and dynamic as the communities they serve. Or, as Kocur says, “When VHBers describe what sets VHB apart or what they value most about VHB, everyone says it’s the people—they are smart, talented, genuine, personable, approachable, and fun.” A

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VOLUNTEER SPIRIT ACEC Georgia's Junior Board at Woodlands Garden

BRETT HILLESHEIM

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In the heart of Decatur, Georgia, lies a natural oasis known as Woodlands Garden, an eight-acre public garden dedicated to preserving a serene woodland sanctuary.

Established on the Morse family's property and donated in 2002, Woodlands Garden serves as an urban retreat and educational hub, featuring over 30 species of trees and a variety of plants native to the Georgia Piedmont region. The Garden's mission of fostering community engagement and environmental education is supported through various workshops, events, and music sessions, offering a tranquil setting for reflection and learning. N

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Woodlands Garden thrives on the support and dedication of volunteers. As a public garden with a diverse range of native plants and trees, ongoing maintenance and enhancement are crucial to preserve its ecological health and beauty. Volunteers play a vital role in various tasks such as trail maintenance, plant relocation, and general upkeep, ensuring the Garden remains a welcoming and safe space for the community.

NURTURING LEADERSHIP: ACEC GEORGIA'S COMMITMENT TO VOLUNTEERING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Seeing a need for young professionals to be engaged in the broader engineering community, ACEC Georgia established its Junior Board in 2022. The Junior Board consists of 15 individuals representing a dynamic group of young professionals eager to make an impact in the engineering industry. One of their priorities is to actively participate in volunteer activities, enhancing their professional growth and giving back to the community. Their volunteer efforts are not only a cornerstone of their professional development but also a means of fostering a robust network within the industry. N

The Junior Board consists of 15 individuals representing a dynamic group of young professionals eager to make an impact in the engineering industry.

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Volunteering plays a crucial role in the professional and personal development of young professionals, offering a multifaceted platform for growth and networking. It provides an opportunity to apply and enhance their skills in real-world situations, fostering problemsolving abilities and innovative thinking. Beyond skill enhancement, volunteering helps young professionals expand their networks, connecting with peers, mentors, and leaders from various sectors, which can lead to future career opportunities and collaborations.

"In establishing the Junior Board, we recognized a vital need to provide a platform for our young professionals to grow and lead within the engineering industry," stated Michael "Sully" Sullivan, President & CEO of ACEC Georgia. "Their involvement in volunteering and community service reflects our commitment to nurturing well-rounded professionals who are not just skilled in their professions but are also actively engaged in shaping a better world."

MacKenzie Copeland, a Junior Board member and Civil Engineer with Michael Baker International, described why the Junior Board is committed to volunteering. “Our goal is to encourage young professionals to participate in activities that serve our profession. By helping our community, we are able to develop stronger team bonds and do our part by ensuring we are building a stronger future for not only our professional but also our personal lives. Volunteering is also great for us to help communities in need directly and make sure that our board is active in the neighborhoods we are representing.”

ENHANCING COMMUNITY SPACES AND SERVING OTHERS

The ACEC Georgia Junior Board chose Woodlands Garden as their inaugural volunteer project, recognizing its unique role as a local environmental gem within the Decatur community.

Copeland highlighted the significance of choosing Woodlands Garden for their volunteer work: “We chose Woodland Gardens because it was a smaller, local opportunity, and our work there would directly affect one of our surrounding communities.” N

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On November 12, 2023, the Junior Board members gathered at Woodlands Garden to work on practical enhancements to the park. They focused on relining trails to improve navigation and safety for visitors. The team also relocated barrier plants to better manage the garden’s layout and maintain its ecological health.

In addition, they potted plants that were removed during these changes, preparing them for reintroduction to suitable areas in the garden. Mulching was a significant part of their work, both in the nursery to aid young plant growth and in the children's activity area to create a safer and more enjoyable space for young visitors. These efforts aimed to preserve the garden's functionality and aesthetic, ensuring it remains a valuable community asset.

The ACEC Georgia Junior Board's work at Woodlands Garden reflects their deep commitment to community service and professional development, reinforcing the idea that the work of engineers extends beyond the office and into the heart of the communities they serve.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT: ACEC GEORGIA'S YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK

The hands-on service at Woodlands Garden by the ACEC Georgia Junior Board not only demonstrates their dedication to community engagement but also serves as a practical manifestation of their broader goals. This commitment to actively participating in and uplifting their local communities seamlessly transitions into their latest initiative - the establishment of the Young Professionals Network (YPN). The YPN, geared towards empowering young engineering industry professionals, is a natural extension of the Junior Board's efforts, providing a structured platform where young professionals can continue to grow, serve, and network. This network is designed for those under 35, offering opportunities that resonate with the Junior Board's vision of integrating professional development with meaningful community involvement. N

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The YPN offers a dynamic platform to foster growth, learning, and networking. It is an excellent resource for those looking to advance their careers and make impactful contributions to the engineering sector. Members of the YPN gain access to a variety of events, including community service projects, professional development workshops, and networking opportunities. These activities not only enhance their professional skills but also allow them to connect with like-minded peers and industry leaders. Young professionals interested in learning more about the YPN and staying informed about upcoming community service projects and other events can visit acecga.org/ypn to sign up and become part of this vibrant community. A

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JOHN PIERSON, P.E., F. ASCE Pierson Enterprises ASCE Georgia President www.ascega.org

ALL-STAR CIVIL ENGINEERS – ASCE LOCAL LEADERS Our local branch and technical institute leaders work diligently to help ASCE members advance the profession's technical, business, and professional expertise. While our branches are comprised of ASCE members, you don't have to be a member of ASCE to join one of our technical institutes, making it perfect for researchers and non-engineers working in that discipline. I asked our local leaders, working for terrific companies that support ASCE, to share a perspective on civil engineering.

My grandfather was a civil engineer (Cornell University, 1913) who served in World War I with the 66th Engineer Regiment and then a career with the Pennsylvania Railroad.

I think my mom saw a lot of her father in me and encouraged me to pursue civil engineering. Some of my favorite civil engineering projects have a historical component. The Egyptian Pyramids, one of the greatest engineering achievements ever, are on my bucket list to see. Danny Brahana is a Geotechnical Service Line Leader with Nova Engineering. He serves as the Geotechnical Institute Chapter Director.

I was a full-time studio artist for 10 years before I decided to head to GT for an engineering degree. After teaching art in college for a year, I decided I wanted a different day job, and it was going to be a very cool day job, engineering! I grew up playing in the creeks of Atlanta, and now I work to protect and improve our waterways. Ten-year-old me is very impressed with how career turned out.

Caroline Smith is Director of Stormwater Engineering & Programming for the Georgia Association of Water Professionals (GAWP). She serves as the Environmental & Water Resources Institute Chapter Director.

My favorite civil engineering project may not have been built yet.

I find myself frequently looking for what’s next. I am, however, continually amazed by the ingenuity of large projects all around the world, especially older ones. Les White is a Paving & Infrastructure Engineer with CemexUSA and the 2021 GSPE / ACEC Engineer of the Year for Industry. Les serves as the Georgia Section Technical Institutes Director.

Growing up in Dublin, Ireland, before the “Celtic Tiger” I always knew I wanted to do something construction related. I love the fact that we, as surveyors, are the “first boots on the ground” on any particular project.

Aidan Deegan is a Senior Project Manager/ Survey Discipline Lead with T2 Utility Engineers. As a Professional Land Surveyor with almost 30 years of experience, he is leading our Section effort to start a Utility Engineering & Surveying Institute Chapter.

I have had the fortune to visit many of the world’s great bridges, including the Golden Gate, the Brooklyn, the Rialto, the Tower, and Ponte Vecchio.

But there are so many more I’d love to see, including the Millau Viaduct, the AkashiKaikyo, and the Sydney Harbour. Brian Hill is a Senior Associate with Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. Brian has served as the Structural Engineering Institute Chapter Director for six years.

One of my favorite civil engineering projects is the Panama Canal expansion.

In conjunction with ASCE’s national conference in 2014, my ASCE Georgia Section friends and I were lucky enough to be able to tour the construction. Lisa S. Woods is a Senior Project Manager with Arcadis. She is the Director for the South Georgia Branch out of Valdosta. Lisa is also a Past President of the Georgia Section.

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I was inspired to become a civil engineer because of my father who was a civil engineer that worked for the Department of Transportation for 35 years.

As a child, I recall riding in a car with him as we drove over a bridge in which he stated, "this is a bridge I designed." I knew at that moment, I wanted to do design something grand that others would use.

Stephan is a University of Georgia professor and Assistant Dean of Student Success and Outreach. He serves as the Director for the Northeast Georgia Branch out of Athens.

I kind of worked backwards to decide on civil engineering.

Based on my love of Atlanta Braves baseball and the environment, as well as success in math in high school, I researched how to enjoy them all in college. I easily chose civil and environmental engineering at Georgia Tech. I say try to be efficient and resourceful in all that you do. Bobby Sauer serves as the Director for the South Metro Branch out of Union City and works for the Georgia EPD Safe Dams Program.

I grew up in a family of engineers and was always captivated by the construction equipment and processes that I would see when tagging along with my dad. As I grew older, I became more interested in how the designs on construction plans were created and this led to my interest in civil engineering. Cody Rogers is the Statesboro Branch Manager for EMC Engineering Services in Statesboro.

He is the Past President for the Savannah Branch.

My dad owns a home renovation business, so I spent a lot of time around construction projects growing up. I wanted to be a construction worker at first, but found civil engineering and immediately loved it! The Hyundai Motor Group's Metaplant America in Bryan County has been my favorite civil engineering project to date because I learn so much every day working and coordinating with all of the project team members. Lauren Davenport is a project manager with Thomas & Hutton.

She serves as the Savannah Branch Director.

SARAH BLACKBURN, PE Gresham, Smith and Partners ASHE Georgia President www.georgia.ashe.pro

RECAP OF OCTOBER LUNCHEON: The October luncheon was held at Maggiano’s in Buckhead on October 27. Our speaker was Albert Shelby, Director of Program Delivery at GDOT who spoke about Managing Project Cost Estimates. It was a great presentation accompanied by a chance to network and awesome food. Thank you to all who came out!

RECAP OF KP RUN/WALK/ROLL: In September, ASHE Georgia members participated in the KP Run/Walk/Roll 5k. It was great exercise and a blast for all who participated. Thank you to all our corporate sponsors!

UPCOMING EVENTS: • 2024 ASHE/ITE Winter Workshop: March 3rd – 4th, at Brasstown Valley Resort • 2024 Annual Poker Tournament

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November | December 57

SEPTEMBER MONTHLY MEETING

ROBINSON NICOL, PE, PTOE Atlas GAITE President president@gaite.org www.gaite.org It has been a busy couple of months for GAITE as we held several social, technical and training events. In addition to our monthly meetings, the organization continues to host a wide range of offerings that appeal to young members and seasoned professionals.

Because of this broad level of appeal, each of the events was well attended. Let’s keep rolling!

Our monthly meetings included a Young Member spotlight in September, where we heard presentations from our wonderful young members. Each presentation was uniquely interesting, reassuring that our future is bright. In October, we heard from a few speakers, each with a presentation on Transportation Engineering from a Different Country. This technical perspective on transportation practices from around the world shared good ideas and lessons learned with our membership. In November, we held our annual Traffic Bowl, which put students from Georgia Southern competing against Georgia Tech for a spot to represent our section at the Southern District annual meeting next April. It was a hard-fought battle, but in the end Georgia Tech prevailed.

Go Jackets!

In between monthly meetings, we held our annual golf tournament at Smoke Rise Country Club on October 9th and hosted our 2nd Annual Marr Traffic Grand Prix operation and safety training event at K1 Speed on October 13. Our Technical Committee hosted Big Data Information Sessions, a Simulation Day on October 24, and the 2023 Technical Exchange at Clemson on November 14th. Registration is also open for our Technical Challenge, which includes cash prizes and a guaranteed spot for presenting at Winter Workshop next March. Our Young

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ANNUAL GAITE GOLF TOURNAMENT

Member Committee has been very active as well, including a volunteer event with Atlanta Community Food Bank, forming study groups for the FE, PE, PTOE, and RSP exams, and a bowling social. Many thanks to our committee chairs who help make all these events possible.

2ND ANNUAL MARR TRAFFIC GRAND PRIX

Looking forward, GAITE will host our Annual Meeting in December at Maggiano’s Cumberland.

The Georgia Section annual awards and scholarships will be presented at the Annual Meeting. Our ballot has been announced for 2024 GAITE Board Members, so please submit your vote. In 2024, the Southern District ITE meeting will be held in Wilmington, NC on April 7-10. GAITE is also hard at work planning the 2024 Winter Workshop in coordination with ASHE Georgia.

SIMULATION DAY If you would like to be a part of Georgia ITE, please see our website at: gaite.org/join.php on information on how to join. When you join ITE international you are automatically added as a member of your local section. Members receive discounts on our monthly meetings and events and have the opportunity to serve on our various committees.

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OCTOBER MONTHLY MEETING

CAPT JOHN PRIEN, CEC, USN (RET) The Clorox Company GEF President john.prien@clorox.com www.gefinc.org

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November | December 59

MITCH PAULK, PE, PLS GSPE President mitch.paulk@land.engineering www.gspe.org

GSPE CELEBRATES NEW PES IN GEORGIA The Georgia Society of Professional Engineers (GSPE) hosted a memorable New PE Celebration on Thursday, October 5, at the impressive facilities of TK Elevator.

This significant event was well-attended, with over 50 newly licensed Professional Engineers (PEs) and their esteemed guests marking this milestone. The celebration was graced by the presence of NSPE President Bill Atkinson, P.E., F.NSPE, who personally extended congratulations to the honorees, adding a touch of prestige to the occasion.

Notably, the event featured insightful speeches from Mitch Paulk, PE, President of GSPE, and Jenny Kovacevic, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager for North America.

Their addresses highlighted the vital role of professional engineers in society and the importance of continuous innovation in the field.

One of the highlights of the evening was the exclusive opportunity for attendees to tour the TK Elevator facilities. This included an intriguing visit to the innovation center and a chance to experience the test elevator, offering a glimpse into the cutting-edge technology and engineering expertise of the company.

A heartfelt expression of gratitude is extended to our generous event sponsors: Barge Design Solutions, Land Engineering, Prime Engineering Inc, RoviSys, and GMC. Their support was instrumental in making this event a resounding success and a memorable experience for the new PEs and all who attended.

Engineer of the Year Applications Are available on GSPE.org

CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! Facebook.com/gspeorg

Linkedin.com/company/Georgia-society-of-professional-engineers

TO LEARN MORE VISIT GSPE.ORG | TO JOIN VISIT NSPE.ORG/MEMBERSHIP/JOIN-NOW

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www.youtube.com/GSPEng

ITS GEORGIA ANNOUNCES 2023 BEST OF ITS GEORGIA AWARDS

Derrick Crowder (City of Roswell)

THOMAS GLUECKERT, PE, PTOE

Every year, ITS Georgia takes pride in recognizing the outstanding people, projects and organizations that make our state a leader in the development, deployment, and operation of intelligent transportation systems.

This year, we are honored to be able to recognize the people and agencies who have contributed so much to our industry these past years. We are also pleased to introduce a new award this year, which recognizes new and exciting uses for existing ITS technologies.

Congratulations to all our winners!

The 2023 Best of ITS Award Winners are: 2023 Innovation: Outside the Construction Box Award - Presented To: Georgia Department of Transportation and Atlanta Regional Commission Joint Agency Data Management Program

Kimley-Horn ITS Georgia President itsgachapter@gmail.com www.itsga.org

Kaitlyn Stewart (GDOT)

2023 ITS Small Project of Significance Award Presented To: City of Johns Creek – ITS Network Enhancement Project 2023 ITS Large Project of Significance Award - Presented To: Gwinnett County Department of Transportation – Gwinnett County Smart Corridor Deployment Program 2023 Outstanding Member Agency Contribution Award - Presented To: KCI Technologies – ITSGa Annual Meeting Sponsor and Contributor

President: Matt Glasser (Arcadis)

Secretary: Michael Presley (WSP)

Vice President: Holly Painter (KCI)

Alexander Estrada (GDOT)

Treasurer: Farrah Glasgow (Utilicom)

Kate Shearin (KCI)

ITS GEORGIA ELECTS NEW OFFICERS AND BOARD MEMBERS On September 25, at our Annual Meeting in Jekyll Island, ITS Georgia announced our incoming officers and directors, who will serve a two-year term, effective January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025.

They join current board members Emily Dwyer – Utilicom, Whitney Nottage – Q Free, Steven Sheffield - Innovusion, Troy Galloway – Arcadis, Mary Thumaty – SEI, and Greg Ramsey – Peachtree Corners Department of Transportation.

Congratulations to our newly elected officers and board members, all of whom are well qualified to provide leadership as we move the organization forward over the next two years of their term. Thank you to our outgoing officers, Vice President Rachel Cohen – 360NS, Secretary Steven Foy – City of Cartersville, Treasurer Mahesh Atluri – HNTB, and Immediate Past President Winter Horbal – Kimley-Horn for the years of valuable service that you have provided this community. association [ news ]

2023 Outstanding Individual Contribution Award - Presented To: Ken Keena of Gwinnett County Department of Transportation - Contributions: For exemplifying the attributes of a dedicated board member, being instrumental in ITSGA’s transition over the past couple of years, stepping up and leading the efforts to fill a void, and provide best service to our members through his leadership of your outstanding support for ITSGA’s ever changing and expanding AV needs.

2023 Innovation: Best Use of Existing ITS Technologies Award – Presented To: Georgia Department of Transportation and AECOM – Technology: Performance Dashboard for ITS Devices 2023 Larry R. Dreihaup Award - Presented To: Keith Golden, P.E., of Arcadis - Contributions: For pioneering the deployment of ITS technologies and programs during his years of service with GDOT and in the consulting community, that established the state of Georgia as a national ITS leader.

2023 President’s Award - Presented To: Matt Glasser, P.E., of Arcadis - Contributions: For exemplifying the attributes of a dedicated board member, taking on multiple leadership roles throughout his years of service, supporting his fellow board members by participating in multiple committees, and leading efforts to update ITS Georgia’s bylaws.

November | December 61

Atlanta Post MICHAEL RAMOS RAYMOND SAME Atlanta Post President mike.ramos@raymondllc.com www.sameatlantapost.org

SERVING TOGETHER, DELIVERING THE POST VISION, AND FULFILLING THE MISSION OF THE SOCIETY Since our last update, the SAME Atlanta Post has been very, very active! First and foremost, it was fantastic to connect with our Post members in San Antonio a few weeks ago for the SAME Small Business Conference (SBC). This event is by far the biggest annual event of the SAME calendar, with this year having record attendance – over 5,000 industry members attended, with nearly one-third of those being first time attendees! The Atlanta Post was well represented in both attendees and speakers throughout the conference.

In addition to attending SBC, the Atlanta Post hosted our first ever networking event as part of the SBC schedule. Our Post and member firms came together to throw the premier SBC networking event at The Alamo, and we received great feedback from all attendees. We are now hoping to hold this as an annual premier event for future SBCs, with New Orleans coming up next year. I’d like to thank our sponsors for their support, specifically Raymond, CHA, Pond, Coffman Engineers, Accura, Rochester & Associates, Jensen Hughes, Wiley Wilson, MBP, ATI, Kemron Environmental, Osprey, and Terracon.

The SAME Atlanta Post has been busy this summer! Since June, we’ve held three highly successful programs to continue our core mission: support the A/E/C industry, enable networking, and offer development opportunities to our members. Our event was truly unique and the talk of the conference!

And while it is not a new initiative, this year the Atlanta Post brought back our annual Georgia Tech Tailgating event, which is a partnership

UPCOMING EVENTS You’re invited to join us at one of our

upcoming events! Visit our website for more information and register.

with the SAME student chapter at Georgia Tech. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic derailed this event, but we were very happy to see the student chapter have interest in reviving it and making it part of the Boston College game. The Post will be aiming to grow this event back to its pre-pandemic stature starting next year.

As we move into the holidays, I would like to point out that the Atlanta Post will be hosting our annual Holiday Party the evening of Tuesday, December 12 from 6-9 p.m. at the Perimeter Mall Maggiano’s (4400 Ashford Dunwoody Road). All are invited for the event and I look forward to ending the year with Post members and giving out many well-earned Post awards!

I’m very excited about where the Atlanta Post is heading in 2024. Our board aims to ramp up several initiatives that I believe our incoming leadership will really thrive with. Ranging from offering more virtual events to growing more board members to giving back to our Post members, the Post is well-positioned for success. As always, if you’re interested in volunteering for our committees or leadership positions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

Best wishes and happy holidays!

JANUARY: Annual Legislative Program co-hosted with ASCE

LEARN MORE ABOUT SAME & CONNECT WITH US! sameatlantapost.org

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linkedin.com/company/same-atlanta-post

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CHRIS LYTLE Uzun & Case Engineers, LLC SEAOG President www.seaog.org

EVENT RECAP October 25 Meeting Recap SEAOG members enjoyed a great lunch meeting and presentation about steel fiber reinforcing for slabs on grade from Claire Gandee with Bekaert. Additional commentary was contributed by Wayne Walker of SSI for ACI committee developments on code provisions for steel fiber reinforcing.

This information provides useful tips and recommendations for specifications and design to allow for wider spacing of control joints in slabs on grade, which in turn can help to optimize construction and reduce long-term maintenance costs for building owners.

COMMITTEE UPDATE SE3 Symposium Held at NCSEA Summit For all who were able to join the SE3 Symposium at the NCSEA 2023 Summit in Anaheim: What a great session!

We hope all of the participants enjoyed the event as well.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY GA TECH NEEDS STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING ADVISOR FOR PROJECT

Georgia Tech's Engineers Without Borders Chapter is seeking a Structural Engineering advisor to assist them as they pursue a new structural project in Ecuador. If you have time to answer a few questions to help make this group of student volunteers' humanitarian aid a success, please contact Team Leader, Tracy Xu, at txu329@gatech.edu.

Due to the current shortage of engineering college grads recently documented by ASCE, this month’s Read.Watch.

Listen topic from the National SE3 Committee addresses Improving Retention at Structural Engineering Firms.

Please take a few minutes to read, watch, or listen at the following link: se3committee.com/post/oct2023readwatchlisten

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November | December 63

Over 200 A/E/C professionals poured into Georgia Aquarium's Ocean Ballroom on September 12 for the 2023 MEGA Meeting, AI Transforming A/E/C: Building the Future. This annual industry event, led by SMPS Atlanta, was a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with trailblazers who are shaping the future of the A/E/C industry through AI. Our panel of AI experts engaged in thought-provoking discussions, sharing their insights, research findings, and practical experiences as they shed light on the immense potential of AI in the built environment.

This year's MEGA Meeting was a collaborative effort between SMPS Atlanta, ABC of Georgia, ACEC of Georgia, AGC of Georgia, and SAME. Keynote Speaker: Jeff Echols of Shadow Partners

MICHELE REDMOND HOLCOMBE SMPS President Michele@foundationtechnologies.com www.smpsatl.org

Panel Moderator: Danielle Gray, MBA of DG Marketing Co. Panelists:

Dr. Thirimachos Bourlai, Ph.D. of the University of Georgia Chris Harman, P.E. of WSP USA Jake Landreneau of Juneau Construction Michael Ramos of Raymond

From marketing and technical staff eager to explore the frontiers of AI in their day-to-day work to industry leaders seeking to harness its power to drive innovation and efficiency, this event offered something for everyone invested in the future of architecture, engineering, and construction.

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RUKIYA S. THOMAS WTS Atlanta President Rukiya.Thomas@atkinsglobal.com www.wtsinternational.org/atlanta

WTS Atlanta celebrated its annual Scholarship Luncheon 2023 at the fabulous Georgia Aquarium. The event was a great success once again, bringing together nearly 400 industry leaders to celebrate the accomplishments of the WTS Atlanta Chapter and the transportation industry. WTS awarded four scholarships to well deserving students pursuing a degree in transportation. WTS also presented awards to individuals and organizations making a significant impact in the industry.

2023 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS: Adair Garrett, Helene M. Overly Memorial Scholarship; Natalie Branand, Jannet Walker Ford Leadership Legacy Scholarship; Jessica Huang, Sharon D. Banks Memorial Scholarship; and Valentina Celis, Molitoris Leadership for Undergraduate Scholarship.

2023 AWARD WINNERS: Member of the Year – Katrina Knight Diversity Leader of the Year – AtkinsRéalis Employer of the Year – Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport Man of the Year – Balram Bheodari Woman of the Year – Keli Kemp Uncovering Our Legacy Award – Dana Lemon Special Acknowledgement to 2023 WTS International Conference Chairs – Malika Reed Wilkins and Regan Hammond

TO BECOME A 2024 CORPORATE SPONSOR, CONTACT KRISTIN WINZELER AT KWINZELER@NORTHFULTONCID.COM OR (678) 397-0570. association [ news ]

November | December 65

A LOOK BACK In 1873, the newly founded North Georgia Agricultural College opened its doors from the ashes of the original Dahlonega Branch Mint. Over the years, as the college grew, the names have changed from the original North Georgia Agricultural College, North Georgia College, to North Georgia College and State University, and currently, celebrating their 150th anniversary, the University of North Georgia.

Photo Credit: Public Domain

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