President’s Message
By Kat Lauer, P.E., M.ASCE
President, ASCE Austin Branch

Hello ASCE Austin Members,

As we close out 2024, I want to take a moment to reflect on an incredible year for the ASCE Austin Branch and share some final updates for December. From mentoring civil engineering students to hosting impactful luncheons and participating in meaningful community service, this year has been a testament to the power of our collective efforts. In this month’s message, we’ll look back on some of the highlights from the past year and look forward to the events we have planned to finish strong.

First, our December Luncheon will feature Michael Sims, P.E., Director of Compliance and Enforcement for the Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors (TBPELS), presenting on Professional Practice Update/Ethics. This presentation will provide updates on engineering ethics, the Code of Conduct, statutory and rule changes, and Board initiatives. Ethics is a critical component of our profession, and this annual session ensures we’re equipped with the knowledge needed to meet our continuing education requirements and uphold the highest professional standards. We’re excited to welcome Michael back for this valuable presentation.

We’ve also moved the monthly coffee chat to Wednesday, December 11th at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters. This relaxed networking opportunity offers a chance to connect with fellow members before the holiday season. Don’t miss the chance to catch up, share ideas, and enjoy Mozart’s festive atmosphere.

Lastly, the Kealing Middle School Engineering Blitz has been rescheduled to December 18th and 19th to better accommodate the students’ schedules. This hands-on event gives middle schoolers a chance to explore engineering through fun and engaging challenges like designing the tallest cup tower or the strongest paper bridge. Volunteers are still needed to run the activities, so please consider signing up and inspiring the next generation of civil engineers.

Looking back on the year, I’m grateful for the many opportunities we had to make an impact. From mentoring UT students during their senior design courses to connecting at Coffee Chats held nearly every month, these moments have strengthened our professional community. Our luncheons covered a wide range of topics, from statewide floodplain planning and expansive soils to public relations and improving efficient permitting in the City of Austin, providing valuable professional development and insight into pressing topics within our field.

We also made strides in community service, volunteering at the Central Texas Food Bank, Mobile Loaves & Fishes, and the Johnson City Science Mill. Through programs like the Shoal Creek Cleanup and the Kealing Engineering Blitz, we’ve shown how civil engineers can give back to our communities while fostering the next generation of STEM leaders.

As we look to 2025, I hope you’ll join us in continuing this important work. Thank you for being part of the ASCE Austin Branch and for your contributions to our success this year. I look forward to seeing many of you at our events this month and throughout the coming year.

With gratitude,
Kat Lauer, P.E.
ASCE Austin Branch President