President’s Message
By Augustine Verrengia, P.E.
President, ASCE Austin Branch

ASCE Austin Branch Members –

As we close out the 75th anniversary year of the ASCE Austin Branch, I’m grateful for the many ways our members and volunteers have shown up for the community and for one another. One of the clearest examples was our recent Kealing Middle School Engineering Blitz, where volunteer engineers and members spent two days rotating through sixth-grade advisory periods, introducing students to civil engineering and leading fast-paced STEM challenges. Nearly an entire grade level had the opportunity to meet practicing engineers, ask questions, and see how real-world problem-solving takes shape. It is a simple format with an outsized impact on the next generation, which was directly confirmed to us when the teachers told stories of kids they were assisting with their college applications, recalling the event and the impact it had on them.

Looking forward, momentum is already building for an exciting start to 2026. Our teams are preparing a strong slate of luncheon presenters and topics tailored to the evolving needs of our industry. Planning is similarly underway for the 2026 Continuing Education Conference in April, and our Pickleball Tournament that will blend networking with a healthy dose of friendly competition.

For our industry partners, I want to highlight that now is the right moment for you to confirm your 2026 sponsorships! Our sponsorship rates will be increasing at the beginning of the year, so securing your support now ensures the best value and directly strengthens our ability to fund scholarships, outreach events like the Kealing Blitz, and the professional development programs that sustain our mission.

To all our members, and especially our Board and committee volunteers, thank you for your dedication to promoting and supporting the civil engineering community in Central Texas and beyond. Your leadership and commitment are the foundation of our success and the reason this Branch continues to grow and serve. The end of the calendar year is always busy, yet it also invites us to pause and focus on what matters most. I hope each of you finds time this season to rest, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments with your families and loved ones.

Wishing you and your families a joyful, safe, and restorative holiday season.

Sincerely,
Augustine Verrengia, P.E.
President, ASCE Austin Branch