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President's Message - December 2023

Hello and Happy Holidays!

 In this season, I often find myself reflecting on the past year, as well as preparing for the next – and it’s no different this year. For me personally, this past year’s events and experiences remind me of how incredibly grateful I am for you and all those that have served in various capacities on behalf of our Branch this past year, and to all who will continue to serve in the next. Thank you!

This month, on Monday, December 11^th, Mr. Nathan Petter, P.E., Dallas County Area Engineer of the Dallas District of TxDOT (Texas Department of Transportation,) will present the US 75 / Northaven Trail Bridge Project to us as our keynote speaker for our December Membership meeting luncheon. Immediately prior to our luncheon, Ms. Jennifer Worthington, GISP, CFM and Ms. Gini Connolly, AICP, GISP, CFM will be discussing how the U.S. Air Force evaluates North Texas storm drain systems utilizing GIS, survey, CCTV, LiDAR, machine learning, and H&H modeling for a safe and sustainable future.

 While you prepare to attend this month’s membership meeting, please grab that extra cash you’ve been saving for a good cause because Quinn Spann will once again lead our efforts to collect donations that will benefit the residents of Denton State Supported Living Center. Let’s demonstrate the generosity of civil engineers!

 We are also seeking nominations for our 2024 Engineer of the Year (EOY) and Young Engineer of the Year (YEOY.) If you would like to nominate someone that has made outstanding contributions to the civil engineering profession, public welfare and humankind, please visit our website (or use the hyperlinks provided) and use the nomination forms available. The due date (Friday, 12/15/23) is quickly approaching, so don’t delay.

Lastly, I’m sure by now you are all aware we will be celebrating our Centennial year in 2024 by “Honoring our Past, Celebrating our Present and Engineering our Future!” Beginning in January, watch for little tidbits about our Branch’s and our profession's history and heritage in each meeting.

 Please don’t hesitate to contact me with your ideas, questions, and feedback. I am here to serve you and the Dallas Branch to the best of my abilities. If you are looking for ways to get involved, I’d love to speak with you. Together, we can do our part to advance the Dallas Branch for the next 100 years.

 Happy Holidays to You and Yours!

Reece E. Taylor, P.E