President’s Message: January 2026
ACEC Florida President Richard G. Acree, PE
To the ACEC Florida Community,
As we begin a new year, I am pleased to welcome Deirdre Finn as the new Executive Director of ACEC Florida and the Florida Engineering Society. Deirdre brings extensive experience, a collaborative leadership approach, and a strong commitment to advancing our shared mission. We are confident she will be a tremendous asset to our organizations, our chapters and regions, and our members as we move forward together.
The start of a new year also offers an opportunity to reflect on the critical role engineers play not only in shaping Florida’s infrastructure and communities, but also in shaping the policies that guide our profession. The 2026 Professional Engineers Legislative Days is next week in Tallahassee, and I sincerely hope to see many of our ACEC Florida members in attendance.
Participation in PE Days is more than an opportunity to network or learn. It is a civic duty. Advocacy is a responsibility we share as engineers to the industry at large. By engaging directly with lawmakers, we help ensure that sound engineering principles, public safety, and long-term planning remain central to the decisions that affect our state. Our collective voice truly matters, and your presence strengthens our ability to advocate effectively on behalf of the profession.
In addition to the legislative meetings, several events surrounding PE Days provide opportunities to connect with colleagues. On Monday, January 19, join us at Ology at 5:30 pm for the FELI Class of 2026 Cornhole Tournament. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Class’s community projects, which are currently being selected. The evening will also include a watch party for the national championship game.
On Tuesday, January 20, we will gather for a reception from 5:30 to 7:00 pm at the Challenger Learning Center. To continue the party, the FES Big Bend Chapter will host its Legislative Days Reception from 7:00 to 10:00 pm at Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grill, which is within walking distance from the Challenger Learning Center. Both events offer valuable opportunities to engage with fellow engineers, chapter leaders, and legislative partners.
Looking ahead, we also have several important events on the horizon, including the 2026 Engineering Excellence Awards Banquet on February 13 in Orlando and the GMEC Conference in early April in Clearwater. These signature events celebrate innovation, leadership, and excellence within Florida’s engineering community and provide meaningful opportunities to learn and connect.
This is also the time of year to begin submitting nominations for the ACEC Florida Annual Awards. I encourage you to take a moment to recognize the firms and individuals who exemplify the very best of our profession. These prestigious honors reflect the strength and impact of our industry, and your nominations play a vital role in telling that story.
I look forward to a productive and engaging year ahead and hope you will join us in Tallahassee and throughout the year.
Best regards,
Rick Acree, PE
Terracon, Director of Florida Transportation and Infrastructure
Senior Principal – Vice President
