A message from ASCE Texas Section President Kimberly Cornett PE, CFM, F.ASCE
October 2023
ASCE Texas Section President 2023-2024
25 Years of ASCE: Fostering Excellence and Making a Difference in Texas Communities
I remember 25 years ago, as a graduate student, walking into my first student meeting of ASCE at UTSA and thinking “This is where I belong.” Within ASCE, the people around me care about what I care about. As a resident of Texas, and as an engineer, I want to make a difference in the communities where I work and where I live. I want to be a part of designs that are improving the well-being of all. Without question, this organization – ASCE – inspires our actions to “do good” and promotes, encourages, and recognizes civil engineering excellence.
As I begin this year as President, I want you to know this organization means a lot to me. I want to do everything I can to continue its mission and to ensure you have the support you need for professional growth.
Professional Development and Leadership
As we head into 2024, we’ll continue to enhance learning and collaboration at all levels and across all Sections. As a team, I want to continue to increase member awareness of current programs, activities, and shared resources. Right now, I am asking, “What else can we do to help our membership?” My question to you is “What, as a member, would you like us to offer more in terms of opportunities with the organization?” Please tell me what we can do better. Send me an email at [email protected].
We just wrapped up the Civil Engineering Conference (CECON). The conference is just one way to further our knowledge. There’s a wealth of information and networking there. The technical papers, presentations, and networking opportunities help us all to be better at our craft. I look forward to seeing you next year in Frisco, Texas, and working together on “Raising the Grade”.
I also want each of you to be empowered by getting involved and supporting your Section and Branch Committees. We can extend that by partnering with community organizations to leverage our expertise. Championing we believe in is part of our jobs as Civil Engineers. (pic) That’s why I encourage you to take an active part in the Infrastructure Report Card (IRC). It gives members the opportunity to utilize their expertise in their field in developing the grade for the state’s infrastructure. It’s a critical gauge for the public to know where Texas stands and how we can better achieve success by shining a spotlight on areas that need attention.
Stewardship and Service
Just as we had others show us the way with mentorship and technical guidance, I want to ensure that we are passing on our legacy to those who are new to or thinking about a career in civil engineering. Support for them is essential. I love how we can help them early on and positively impact the trajectory of their lives. I have seen how college students are inspired by the engineering activities we put before them at gatherings like the most recent Region 6 Student Symposium. Interacting with our current ASCE members is so valuable for them. These partnerships are truly helping to develop our future industry leaders.
Starting at an even earlier age with K-12 STEM programs plants the idea early on that civil engineering is a rewarding and life-changing career.
For me, ASCE has provided a life-long journey of education and professional fulfillment. And I am truly thankful to be here to be with all of you because the work we do is truly transformative and makes life better for the public. I am looking forward to and truly excited to serve as our president this coming year.
Thank you,
Kimberly Cornett PE, CFM, F.ASCE
2024 ASCE Texas Section President
