Every day, engineers set out to produce the best results for their clients, but who is working on the behalf of engineers and the A/E/C industry? DRMP’s Ryan Mitchell, PE, DRMP Stormwater/Water Resources Project Manager, gives us an inside look at his role with the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) North Carolina Chapter’s Legislative Committee. Mitchell is a part of DRMP’s Cary, NC office. The ACEC has more than 50 state and regional councils that serve as the voice of the engineering industry.
What role do you play on the ACEC/NC Legislative Committee?
I serve on the chapter’s Legislative committee and the environmental subcommittee as a liaison to keep everyone in the know on the direction of the legislature and what proposed bills may impact the industry. I also help with the chapter’s fundraising efforts that support ACEC on a national level and our state’s political action committee.
Why did you choose to get involved, and why the legislative committee?
Early in my career when I lived and worked in Florida, I was invited to attend the Florida Professional Engineers Legislative Days. Each year I would travel to the state capitol in Tallahassee, Fla. to meet with 200-plus colleagues from across Florida. We would discuss the current state legislation that could affect the engineering profession. That event included small group meetings with Senate and House Legislators where we offered them our perspective on pending legislative issues.
The event was a bit overwhelming at first. However, I was immediately intrigued when we sat down with the legislators to answer their questions and discuss the political issues of the legislative session. That’s when I realized how important it was to become involved in the political process. If we’re going to vote for these representatives and allow them to make laws that govern our lives, it is vital that we talk to them and make sure they understand our perspective.
What impact does the legislature have on the engineering industry? How does your committee work to help the industry?
Legislation can profoundly affect our industry. It controls how contracts are awarded, specifies what kinds of design require an engineer’s seal, regulates liability, and determines how our tax dollars are used to fund public projects. Our committees’ mission is to monitor state and federal legislation and to advocate for our industry. We also promote and organize events that focus on furthering the Council’s legislative agenda and supporting our state and national political action committees.
Can you share an example of the ACEC/NC legislative committee in action?
In June 2019, the ACEC legislative committee provided support in the successful passage of a legislative bill, House Bill 871, that protected design engineers against “Indemnity” or “Duty to Defend” contract provisions. The frequently used clause would require the design engineer to defend the owner against claims that were not caused by the design. It was a very high-risk provision for designers because it created unmanageable risk and was uninsurable under professional liability insurance.
What do you want fellow engineers to know about getting involved in professional organizations, like ACEC?
ACEC represents the business interests of the engineering industry and provides a collective voice to build relationships between its private and public sectors. It is a great way to get involved and help make a difference in the things that impact our profession. Like many professional organizations, ACEC provides a variety of committees and forums to participate. You’ll meet and get to know other engineers outside of your company and build valuable relationships. No matter which professional organization you choose to join, there is sure to be a group that can use your help!
