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

As the wildflowers bloom and the days get longer, ASCE Austin is springing into action with a full calendar of events designed to energize, connect, and inspire our members. Whether you are looking to give back, gain insights, or just get your game face on, May has something for everyone.

We are starting things off with our rescheduled Coffee Chat, now happening on Tuesday, May 13, from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters. This scenic lakeside spot is a longtime Austin favorite, and we are looking forward to a relaxed morning of caffeine, conversations, and connections. Whether you are a longtime member or new to the branch, it is a great way to meet peers, talk about projects, and start your week with some engineering energy.

Next, we roll up our sleeves for a hands-on opportunity to support our neighbors at the Central Texas Food Bank Volunteer Event on Saturday, May 17, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Volunteers will help inspect, clean, sort, and pack donated food items—critical work that keeps the food bank running smoothly and ensures families across the region receive the help they need. Bring your friends, your teammates, or just your enthusiasm—this is service that makes a real difference.

On Tuesday, May 20, we shift gears to professional development at our May Luncheon, held in conjunction with EWRI. We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Robert Mace, Executive Director of the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment and Professor of Practice at Texas State University. Dr. Mace is a respected voice in Texas water policy and resource management, and his talk will offer valuable insights into the environmental challenges facing our state and profession. In addition to the presentation, we will introduce the 2025–2026 ASCE Austin Branch Board Officer slate, with formal voting to take place in June.

Then, clear your calendar—and your paddle grip—for the 2nd Annual ASCE Austin Pickleball Tournament on Friday, May 30, at the Austin Pickle Ranch – Braker Lane. This isn’t just a chance to show off your backhand or test your doubles strategy—it’s also a fun and fast-paced fundraiser for our student scholarship fund. We are inviting players of all skill levels, enthusiastic spectators, and corporate sponsors to make this event a hit. Registration and sponsorship opportunities are open through May 15, so do not miss your shot. Sign up, donate, or learn more on the tournament registration page, and view sponsorship packages here. Whether you are playing for glory or just soaking up the good vibes, it is a great way to wrap up the month with the ASCE community.

While you are marking your calendars, do not forget that the 2025 ASCE Election is underway. This is the Society-level election, distinct from our local Austin Branch Board election. Voting is open through June 1, and this year’s ballot includes two official nominees for Society president-elect—Carol Ellinger Haddock, P.E., MPA, F.ASCE and Kenneth H. Rosenfield, P.E., ENV SP, F.ASCE—as well as an important constitutional amendment to simplify member grades by consolidating affiliate, associate, and member into one streamlined designation: M.ASCE. Learn more about the candidates and proposed changes at asce.org/elections and member grade consolidation, and cast your vote today at asce.org/VoteNow.

Looking ahead, June promises even more opportunity for growth and engagement. ASCE Seminar Week will be hosted right here in Austin, offering a full lineup of technical training and PDHs for civil engineers across disciplines. Learn more and register at asceweek.org. Our June Luncheon will feature a City of Taylor project update, focusing on current infrastructure improvements and plans for roadway development. We will also announce the results of the ASCE Austin Branch Board election.

Whether you are volunteering, voting, volleying, or learning, May is your month to get involved. We cannot wait to see you out there!

Best regards,
Kat Lauer, P.E., M.ASCE
President, ASCE Austin Branch