President’s Message: September 2025
ACEC Florida President Richard G. Acree, PE
To the ACEC Florida Community,
Greetings as we officially move into Fall, full of promise and activity. Our industry continues to show strength in unity, serving our clients, communities, and Florida with excellence. I’m also pleased to share that the search for a new Executive Director is progressing well, and we look forward to introducing the right leader to guide ACEC Florida into its next chapter.
Our regions are especially active this fall, hosting a variety of events that bring members together, strengthen local connections, and give us opportunities to engage on issues that matter most. I encourage you to attend an event near you. Your participation is what makes these gatherings meaningful.
Emerging Leaders Statewide Cleanup Event – September 20
On Saturday, September 20, our Emerging Leaders Board is coordinating a Statewide Cleanup Event in recognition of National Clean Up Day. This is an excellent way for members to give back to their communities, connect with peers, and demonstrate the positive impact engineers can make beyond the projects we deliver.
Region 3 / FES Central Florida Chapter Legislative Breakfast – September 23
On Tuesday, September 23, Region 3 and the FES Central Florida Chapter will host the 2025-2026 Legislative Breakfast: Infrastructure Policy Discussion. This event offers an opportunity for members to engage directly with legislators and discuss the policies and priorities that shape our industry, with both a recap of the 2025 Legislative Session and a look ahead to 2026.
In addition, starting in October, ACEC Florida and FES will host Weekly Legislative Update Calls during committee weeks for the Florida Legislature. These calls will complement our in-person legislative events by keeping members informed, aligned, and ready to respond as issues emerge in Tallahassee.
Stormwater Rule Webinar Series Session 4: Modeling Approaches and Design Tools
Our fourth session in the Stormwater Rule Webinar Series is also coming up next month, featuring Mark Thomasson, PE, Chief Stormwater Engineer, National Stormwater Trust. This session will focus on modeling approaches and design tools to help practitioners navigate the new stormwater rule effectively. I encourage anyone working in water resources, civil/site, or related areas to take part in this timely and important discussion.
Region 7 members will have the opportunity to attend the PREMO Program Update next month, where they will gain valuable insights into the progress of the Broward County Transit PREMO (Premium Mobility Plan) with guest speaker Abhishek Dayal, AICP, Chief Infrastructure Officer.
These events reflect the strength of ACEC Florida, our commitment to professional growth, to advocacy, and to building connections that matter. I encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities to stay informed, get involved, and support the work we are doing together.
Best regards,
Rick Acree, PE
Terracon, Director of Florida Transportation and Infrastructure
Senior Principal – Vice President
