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

ASCE Austin Branch Members -

Much of the work that we as engineers do goes unnoticed, and in many ways, that is the point. When our work functions as intended, when infrastructure systems support communities quietly and reliably, engineering is doing its job. I have often joked that all the pretty things that I’ve designed just get covered up with dirt! It is work rooted in responsibility, long-term thinking, and service to others, often without recognition and rarely with fanfare.

This month brings a moment that puts all of that work into clearer focus. From February 22nd through February 28th, Engineers Week puts a direct spotlight on the role engineers play in shaping the built environment and supporting the communities we serve. It is a reminder that the outcomes people rely on every day, such as safe roads, clean water, and resilient systems, are the result of many deliberate decisions and steady efforts.

Alongside Engineers Week, our branch has a strong lineup of activities throughout the month that show the many ways engineers contribute beyond their day-to-day roles. One example is our continued partnership with the Science Mill in Johnson City, where ASCE Austin provides free admission for families and hosts hands-on, STEM-focused activities throughout the day. This event is a great way to connect with the community and introduce young students to engineering in an approachable, engaging way. February also creates space to reconnect with one another as professionals, such as the annual Joint Happy Hour hosted by our Younger Members Forum, which has grown into one of the largest local gatherings of engineers in the region, with more than 300 attendees last year. It continues to be a valuable opportunity to build relationships across disciplines and career stages. We will also close out the month with the TSPE/ASCE Engineers Banquet on February 27, where both organizations will present this year’s Engineer of the Year and Young Engineer of the Year awards. These are just a few of the events taking place this month, and I encourage you to visit the branch calendar on our website to see the full schedule and find opportunities to get involved in ways that fit your interests, your availability, and capability.

As Engineers Week approaches, I’d also encourage each of you to take a moment to share something with your own network, whether that’s a project you’re proud of, a lesson you’ve learned, or simply a note about why engineering matters to you. A quick post on your LinkedIn or social media pages can go a long way in reminding others of the impact engineers have on their everyday lives. If you’re looking for ideas or resources, the ASCE Texas Section has put together helpful materials (at https://www.texasce.org/event/eweek-2026/) that make it easy to get involved and help promote Engineers Week.

While there will be no branch luncheon in February, I hope you’ll stay engaged where you can, show up for one another, and take part in Engineers Week in a way that feels authentic to you. I look forward to seeing many of you out at events this month, volunteering alongside you, and continuing these activities that elevate our profession and the work that we all do.

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