May/June 2025

Legislative Update

Policy Trends Impacting Michigan's Engineering Sector

As legislative discussions continue to evolve, staying informed on the policy landscape is essential for engineering professionals and firms across Michigan.

This edition’s Legislative Update covers several critical topics that may shape the future of the industry—including state budget pressures, infrastructure investment proposals, and Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) procurement reform.

Rather than condense this information into the body of the newsletter, we’ve compiled a detailed legislative analysis for your review.

The full report explores:

• Updated state revenue projections and implications for the FY 2026 budget
• Transportation funding legislation under review in the Michigan Senate
• QBS legislation activity and stakeholder engagement
• Federal advocacy highlights from the 2025 ACEC Annual Convention
• Key takeaways from AESLC Legislative Day at the Michigan Capitol

🔗 Click here to read the full Legislative Update

We encourage all ACEC/Michigan members to review the update, stay engaged, and reach out with questions or insights. Your voice is vital in advancing policies that protect public safety, strengthen infrastructure, and promote the engineering profession in Michigan.

Legislative Outreach

Michigan Delegation Meets with Congressional Leaders

On May 20, ACEC/Michigan delegates met with members of Michigan’s Congressional delegation as part of the 2025 ACEC Annual Convention and Legislative Summit.

Meetings were held with key offices including Representatives Kristen McDonald Rivet, John James, John Moolenaar, Hillary Scholten, Tim Walberg, Jack Bergman, Debbie Dingell, Shri Thanedar and Tom Barrett. The delegation discussed top federal priorities for the engineering industry, including transportation and water infrastructure reauthorization, a pro-growth tax agenda, and workforce policy reform.

Policy materials provided during the visits emphasized the need for long-term federal infrastructure investment following the expiration of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in 2026, including preserving Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) for all recipients of federal funds and streamlining local grant administration. Delegates also urged Congress to make Section 199A passthrough deductions permanent, restore full R&D expensing, and extend Section 127 to allow student loan repayment assistance to remain tax-free. With nearly 90% of firms reporting open positions, ACEC/Michigan also advocated for expanding STEM education investments and reforming high-skilled immigration policies to help address critical workforce shortages across the engineering industry.

ACEC/Michigan Announces New Website & Member Center

We’re thrilled to share two exciting updates designed to enhance the way we serve our members and partners!

Welcome to the New ACEC/Michigan Website!

Our redesigned website is now live at www.acecmi.org!

With a modern look and improved navigation, the new site makes it easier than ever to explore what ACEC/Michigan has to offer—from a streamlined event calendar and updated job board to helpful resources and news. It’s built to be a dynamic, user-friendly hub for you and your firm.

Introducing the ACEC/Michigan Member Center (Info Hub)

We’ve also launched a new Member Center, designed to help ACEC/Michigan members manage their membership, connect with peers, and access exclusive tools and content—all in one place.

Here’s what’s inside the Info Hub:

• Member Directory – Maintain your contact information and firm profile, including logos, social media links, and related contacts (for primary users).
• Events – Browse and register for upcoming ACEC/Michigan programs.
• Career Center – Post job openings and support your recruitment efforts.
• Email Subscriptions – Choose the updates that matter most to you.
• Committees – Learn more about getting involved with ACEC/Michigan committees.
• Resources (coming soon!) – Access members-only documents and tools.

We’re excited about these upgrades and confident they’ll help provide even more value to our members and partners. Be sure to explore the new website and keep an eye out for additional updates and resources coming soon.

Questions? Our team is always here to help. Email info@acecmi.org.

2025 MDOT TRAC Bridge Challenge

On April 10, 2025, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) hosted the annual Transportation and Civil Engineering (TRAC) Bridge Challenge at the Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids. This premier event brought together more than 80 student teams from across Michigan for a full day of applied learning and exposure to real-world engineering practices.

Engineering in Action

The TRAC Bridge Challenge introduces middle and high school students to the core principles of civil and structural engineering. Teams design, build, and test model bridges made from balsa wood, with the goal of achieving the highest strength-to-weight ratio while meeting design specifications. The process incorporates industry-standard engineering software and real-world calculations involving materials science and load distribution.

Career Exploration Room: Powered by ACEC/Michigan Volunteers

One of the most impactful elements of the TRAC Bridge Challenge is the Career Exploration Room, which allows students to interact one-on-one with professionals representing diverse disciplines within the engineering field. This interactive environment gives students the opportunity to ask questions, explore academic pathways, and connect classroom learning to real-world careers.

The Career Exploration Room is made possible through the generous support and time of engineering professionals from ACEC/Michigan member firms. These volunteers represent technical fields including:

• Structural engineering
• Geotechnical engineering
• Roadway and drainage design
• Traffic engineering and planning
• Surveying
• Environmental engineering
• Mechanical and electrical systems
• Architecture
• Construction engineering

"The TRAC Bridge Challenge symbolizes the importance of early exposure to engineering,” said Ron Brenke, Executive Director of ACEC/Michigan. “By engaging students in practical, hands-on experiences and connecting them with professionals from ACEC/Michigan firms, we are cultivating the problem-solvers and innovators who will shape Michigan's infrastructure future.”

For more information about the TRAC Program and opportunities to get involved, visit:

www.michigan.gov/mdot/trac

2025 Transportation Diversity

Recruitment Program (TDRP)

Engineering Talent for Tomorrow: ACEC/Michigan Partners with MDOT for TDRP 

As Michigan faces increasing demand for skilled engineers to deliver its transportation infrastructure, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is investing in the future through the Transportation Diversity Recruitment Program (TDRP). In 2025, MDOT welcomed nearly 50 interns into this dynamic public-private initiative, with ACEC/Michigan member firms playing a critical role in shaping the next generation of engineering talent.

Building a Pipeline for Engineering Talent

The TDRP is designed to attract underrepresented students pursuing careers in transportation and engineering-related fields. Through immersive internships with both public agencies and private sector engineering firms, participants gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to Michigan’s diverse transportation challenges.

This year’s intern cohort includes placements at 19 MDOT offices and 15 ACEC/Michigan member firm locations. Participating firms include HNTB, WSP, ROWE, FISHBECK, AECOM, COLLIER, INFRASTRUCTURE ENGINEERING, VALUE ENGINEERING, and SOMAT. 

“The TDRP exemplifies how we can work together across sectors to recruit and retain the engineering talent our state needs,” said Ron Brenke, ACEC/Michigan Executive Director. “We are proud to collaborate with MDOT to offer students meaningful experience and mentorship.” 

ACEC/Michigan’s Role in Professional Development

ACEC/Michigan continues to support TDRP through direct mentorship, firm-hosted internships, and event engagement. Notably, ACEC leaders delivered opening remarks alongside MDOT Director Brad Wieferich and program administrator James Jackson at the TDRP Welcome Event, held May 9, 2025, at the Fort Pontchartrain Hotel in Detroit.

This kickoff event set the tone for the summer program, emphasizing development, engagement, and retention as strategic pillars for talent cultivation. Sessions addressed career readiness, inclusive workforce development, communication strategies, and financial literacy—each tailored to prepare interns for real-world transportation engineering environments.

In addition to internships, ACEC/Michigan firms will have the opportunity to sponsor and participate in the Pre-Showcase Networking Function on July 30, 2025, helping interns build their professional networks and deepen industry connections.

Focused on Engineering, Driven by Purpose

For ACEC/Michigan, TDRP is more than a summer initiative—it’s a long-term investment in the profession. Interns working with member firms engage directly in civil engineering projects, including transportation planning, roadway design, bridge inspections, and environmental assessments. These experiences offer valuable insight into how engineering improves safety, mobility, and quality of life across Michigan communities.

 “ACEC/Michigan firms are not just opening doors—they’re investing time, talent, and opportunity into the future of engineering,” said Troy Hagon, ACEC/Michigan Deputy Director. “This program helps ensure that tomorrow’s engineers reflect the communities they serve and are equipped with both technical and leadership skills.”

Looking Ahead

As Michigan continues to face a growing need for transportation professionals, initiatives like TDRP—supported by strong public-private partnerships—are vital to long-term workforce sustainability. ACEC/Michigan remains committed to expanding this collaboration and ensuring engineering students have the support, training, and exposure they need to launch successful careers in our state.

To learn more about the TDRP or explore how your firm can get involved, visit: www.Michigan.gov/MDOT.

Engineering the Future: 14th Annual Detroit Construction Science Expo Inspires the Next Generation

On May 13, 2025, the 14th Annual Detroit Construction Science Expo welcomed over 800 students to the Durfee Innovation Society for a hands-on introduction to careers in engineering and construction. Hosted by the Black Caucus Foundation of Michigan, the event brought together industry professionals, public officials, and education partners to expose Detroit youth to the skills and opportunities that power Michigan’s infrastructure.

Engineering-Focused, Student-Centered

Engineering took center stage at this year’s expo, with interactive exhibits that allowed students to:

• Design and construct model bridges
• Explore civil, mechanical, and structural engineering principles
• Participate in drone flight demonstrations and mapping simulations
• Engage with licensed engineers and university representatives about academic pathways

In addition to engineering stations, students also explored skilled trades activities including masonry, heavy equipment operation, and electrical systems—demonstrating the range of career options within the built environment.

Supporting Workforce Development Through Early Engagement

Ron Brenke, Executive Director of ACEC/Michigan, emphasized the importance of early exposure to engineering careers: "Events like the Construction Science Expo are vital in sparking interest among young students in engineering careers. By providing hands-on experiences, we can inspire the next generation to pursue paths that will shape and improve our communities."



The event is a key component of the Black Caucus Foundation’s “Navigation to Success” program, which requires participating students to complete a life-skills curriculum and commit to a drug-free lifestyle. The program reinforces professional readiness and personal growth alongside career exploration.

Partners in Engineering Education

ACEC/Michigan and member firms were proud to participate in the 2025 expo, showcasing the real-world impact of engineering in transportation, water systems, and public safety. By highlighting design innovation and technical problem-solving, volunteers demonstrated the essential role engineers play in shaping Michigan’s future infrastructure.

Looking Ahead

The Construction Science Expo will expand its reach this fall with the Lansing Construction Science Expo, scheduled for September 30, 2025, at the Impression 5 Science Center. With continued leadership from the Black Caucus Foundation and industry support, these events serve as a powerful platform to build a more diverse, skilled, and inspired engineering workforce.

For more information or to get involved in future expos, visit www.constructionscienceexpo.com.

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