A Look Back and a Look Ahead for ACEC Louisiana
As we close the chapter on another successful year for ACEC Louisiana, I want to extend my sincere appreciation to each of you. Your engagement and support continue to strengthen our collective voice. The accomplishments of this past year reflect more than organizational progress; they reflect the dedication of an engineering community that shows up, leans in, and invests in the future of engineering.
This year, we advanced meaningful legislative reforms, expanded our educational and networking programs, and deepened our collaboration with agencies and policymakers across the state. These achievements were possible not because of any single effort, but because our members recognize the importance of working together to elevate the business of engineering in Louisiana.
Year in Review
Advocacy That Makes a Difference
Advocacy continues to be a defining strength of ACEC Louisiana. This year’s accomplishments included:
- Passage of Act 180, expanding QBS requirements when public dollars are used—even through private entities.
- Support for LADOTD reform legislation, including restoring a strong Chief Engineer position.
- Defense of engineering licensure, stopping legislation that would have eroded professional standards.
- Restoration of immediate R&D tax credit expensing, creating meaningful savings for engineering firms.
We engaged public owners on indemnification clauses, intervened in Brooks and Hammett Act violations, and continued our collaboration with LADOTD on reforms guided by the BCG report. In all, ACECL reviewed 1,691 bills and resolutions, actively engaged on 32, and advanced one ACECL-authored bill.
A Strong, Connected Membership
ACEC Louisiana continues to thrive with 122 member firms, 22 affiliates, and a 96% retention rate, representing nearly 4,000 engineering professionals across Louisiana. Engagement flourished through our five regional chapters, eight committees, and multiple forums and councils.
Our educational programming remained strong, with 18 events, over 1,050 attendees, and 60 PDH hours offered. The Deep South Convention, Fall Conference & Project Outlook, and the Emerging Leaders Institute continued to provide valuable platforms for learning and connection throughout the year.
Events, Communications & Sponsorship Support
Monthly newsletters, Capitol Calculus (legislative) updates, weekly news clips, and quarterly journal articles kept members informed and connected. Our sponsors at every level played an essential role in supporting ACECL’s advocacy, programming, and member services throughout the year.
Looking Forward
The year ahead promises even more opportunities for leadership and impact. We encourage members to get engaged in ACECL committees, as we prepare for major legislative initiatives during the 2026 Legislative Session and increased industry engagement efforts with all major state agencies. Your participation will be essential as we shape policies that directly affect the business of engineering.
Looking ahead to 2026, we are also excited to introduce a new event structure as we will combine the Engineering Excellence Awards Gala with the Fall Conference, hosting the gala the evening before the conference. This two-day gathering will elevate the recognition of outstanding engineering achievements while bringing the industry together for important discussions about our future.
Thank you again for your commitment to ACEC Louisiana. Together, we will continue to strengthen our profession, advocate for sound public policy, and build a stronger business environment for engineering firms across our state. I look forward to working alongside you in the year ahead.