LETTER FROM THE CEO

As of May 2023, the Biden Administration has released $15 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to the State of Texas. Since then, approximately $12.6 billion has been allocated for transportation improvement projects. And while we, at PCI, are looking forward to the opportunities this funding can present, we still find ourselves in the midst of a labor shortage for licensed engineers. In 2022, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected a need for “approximately 25,000 new civil engineers each year throughout this decade.” That estimate, however, is based on the need to replace the workforce, as engineers either retire or change industry, and does not consider the increase in demand following the passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill.

The reality is that multiple factors play a role in this labor shortage, none of which are unique to PCI. Ultimately, we are facing a major demographic shift with those of the “baby boomer” generation retiring, and subsequent generations are not earning enough degrees in the AEC fields. Additionally, the AEC industry has not collectively done enough to entice prospective students to enter this field. This issue was in the making years ago and has since been exacerbated by the COVID pandemic, resulting in an increasing number of experienced engineers choosing to retire (sometimes earlier than planned).

How Pci Is Combating The Labor Shortage

Providing 100% paid medical insurance for employees

Better workplace environment or more attractive workspaces

Offering a hybrid workspace

Sponsoring ACE Programs for high school internships

PCI, however, is taking steps to counter this shortage by providing 100% paid medical insurance for employees, utilizing college interns as a way to tap into the employee supply while providing value field experience, supporting the ACE Mentor Program by sponsoring high school students through mentorships, partnering with local colleges to establish a channel through which to obtain potential candidates, and providing an improved in-office workspace with hybrid options. We have been successful in hiring 9 new employees this year. As we weather this storm, know that this is a great opportunity for one to learn quickly and develop your knowledge and expertise in our industry. We continue to appreciate your dedication and hard work to maintain the attention and quality of work PCI has always provided to our clients. We ask that you continue to reach out to your network for qualified candidates and encourage them to apply. Remember that at PCI, we have an Employee Referral Program that awards this initiative. Details on page 31.

And more!

April

Elizabeth Story — Apr. 16

Kari Sutton — Apr. 17

May

Ignacio Izaguirre — May 4

Rory Mackrell — May 5

Greg Delgado — May 25

June

Cristian Guajardo — Jun. 15

Carlos Camarillo — Jun. 21

Jackie Lopez — Jun. 22

Beto Camarillo, Sr. — Jun. 28

Camilo Camarillo — Jun. 30