CARY, N.C. – DRMP Senior Project Engineer Tim Klotz, PE, has graduated from the American Council of Engineering Companies of North Carolina (ACEC/NC) Future Leaders Program, giving him an opportunity to learn how to advocate for the industry through the state’s legislative process.
The Future Leaders Program supports young A/E/C professionals by providing them with in-depth knowledge of the business side of the engineering profession and opportunities to connect with other industry professionals to share invaluable insights.
Over the course of seven months, the 17 program participants attended in-person, hands-on workshops to learn about business development, communications, financial management, the legislative process, contract law, and work/life balance from a variety of guest speakers.
“The program was a great experience that allowed me to gain more knowledge and see beyond the technical side of engineering,” Klotz said. “In addition, I have been able to expand my professional network and get to know other future leaders.”
Klotz said one of the highlights of the program was attending ACEC/NC’s legislative day, which gave participants the opportunity to meet with members of the North Carolina Legislature to advocate for the A/E/C industry.
“This was a great opportunity to expand my horizons and see firsthand the importance of the legislative process in North Carolina,” Klotz said. “It has helped me see both the bigger picture of the engineering industry, as well as the importance of meeting the needs of clients.”
Klotz, who joined DRMP in 2022, provides roadway engineering expertise on projects for clients across the Southeastern United States.
His supervisor, DRMP Charlotte Office Leader/Roadway Project Manager Mike Hage, PE, and DRMP Cary Office Leader/Drainage Project Manager Ryan Mitchell, PE, are both graduates of the Future Leaders Program and recommended Klotz participate in the program. Firm principals nominated and selected participants based on experience and background.
“The Future Leaders Program isn't just another training program, it's a commitment to growth and understanding,” Hage said. “I'm proud to have completed it, and I know Tim will carry that pride forward. It's exciting to think about how this will positively affect our firm, and I'm looking forward to the new energy and ideas it will undoubtedly bring.”
Hage said the program is not just about the added knowledge or confidence boost participants gain from their experience.
“Knowing the richness and intensity of the program, I can say without a doubt that Tim's ready to take on new challenges,” Hage said. “He's gained insights that will make him an invaluable asset, and I think we'll all feel the impact of his new skills. The program's return on investment is clear. It's about creating more reliable, knowledgeable, and satisfied employees. Tim's experience will translate directly into a more effective role within our firm, and I believe it will pay dividends.”
About DRMP
DRMP is a multi-discipline firm serving clients in the public, private and industrial sectors in the development of infrastructure and has been in business since 1977. DRMP currently employs 600 professionals in 21 office locations spread strategically across our service area. Today, DRMP is ranked among Engineering News-Record’s “Top 500 Design Firms” in the United States. For more information, please visit www.drmp.com.
