Monthly Officer Update from

Stephen McCall, PE, NACE President

At the end of August, I was able to speak at the Association of County Engineers of Alabama Conference, where the hospitality is only equaled by their commitment to local infrastructure improvement. They are dealing with similar issues as many others across the country, such as trying to find CDL drivers and employees and keep them before they jump ship to go after more money. They also face the daunting reality of dealing with the inflation of material cost and contracts. Additionally, they continue their efforts to work with FEMA and FHWA on projects and emergency repairs. As we all know, these are the best of times and the worst of times. Just like in Ohio, if you wait a day or even an afternoon, the situation changes and the clouds are going to come in or the sun will come out. As we persevere through the difficult times, we are making good connections with those in our fields to help us the next time we experience a problem or help our colleagues as they face some adversity. NACE is continuing to serve in many different capacities.

The new list of SS4A grant awards have been posted and I congratulate all who were successful. Now, we are working to make the agreements more streamlined and easier to complete with the templates that we have requested. FHWA has had some turnover and are also increasing staff to reduce delays. As we are working with the agreements, remember that they also are facing challenges and uncharted waters. Having patience and humility will allow a better relationship with the agency you are working with, and you will get better results with persistent and polite follow-ups. USDOT expects to make additional FY24 award announcements in November.