The ASCE-EWRI Houston and East Central Florida Chapters are actively involved in various events and initiatives that promote environmental and water resources engineering through education, professional development, community engagement, and support for future engineers. Their activities significantly contribute to the professional growth of their members and the betterment of the Houston and East Central Florida communities.
The ASCE-EWRI Houston Chapter regularly organizes educational webinars, workshops, tours, and technical events. These include notable events like the annual conference which has grown exponentially since its inception and included 200 attendees and 21 government agency speakers in 2023. These events provide invaluable continuing education and professional development opportunities for our members focused on environmental and water resource challenges in our region.
The chapter also prioritizes supporting future engineers by offering two $1,500 student scholarships, student only events, and discounted student rates and volunteer roles to participate in our other chapter events. The scholarships are designed to encourage and assist local college students pursuing careers in civil and environmental engineering. In 2024, 13 applicants from local colleges applied.
Networking is another critical aspect of their activities. They frequently host networking events to help professionals in the field connect, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects. These events not only build a sense of community but also provide opportunities for members to advance their careers and stay updated on the latest industry trends and technologies. They recently conducted a joint social with the Coast, Ocean, Ports and Rivers Institute (COPRI) to encourage collaboration in the coastal space.
Additionally, the chapter is involved in public outreach and volunteer efforts. They engage with the community through various outreach programs, collaborating with the local Parks Board, universities and other non-profit organizations that align with their goals and values.
The ASCE-EWRI East Central Florida Chapter organizes and participates in a variety of events including an annual seminar, technical luncheon sessions, and community service activities. The 2023 seminar was an in-person event held at the conference facility of a local food bank and was attended by over 110 professionals in the environmental and water resources community. The proceeds from this event provide funding for the following year’s chapter scholarship program to support civil and environmental engineering students at universities within Central Florida. Proceeds from the 2023 seminar allowed the chapter to award five out of 23 student applicants a $2,000 scholarship.
This chapter hosts technical luncheon presentations throughout the year that highlight environmental and water resource related topics such as local lake restoration projects, tidal flooding studies, and guidance on implementing stormwater best management practices in Florida. In addition to providing continuing education credits to attendees for licensure upkeep, these sessions provide a space for attendees to learn from and interact with other professionals in the area.
Chapter members regularly participate in community service opportunities such as meal preparation at the Ronald McDonald House, invasive plant species removals and trail cleanups, and the facilitation of children’s environmental activities for Earth Day and STEAM events.
