As I embrace my new role as the Executive Director of the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies – Ontario (ACEC-Ontario), I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of excitement and gratitude as I embark on this new chapter in my career.
ACEC-Ontario is a dynamic and influential organization that represents the interests of consulting engineering firms across the province. The association plays a vital role in promoting the value and importance of consulting engineering services and advocating for the industry’s interests at all levels of government. I am honoured that the ACEC-Ontario Board of Directors has entrusted me with the responsibility of leading this esteemed organization and the dedicated staff team to continue to build on its rich legacy.
I’ll admit to some eager curiosity as well. My daily commute from Toronto to Mississauga over the past several years involved navigating Highways 401, 427 and the Gardiner Expressway. Months ago, while contemplating this great opportunity at ACEC-Ontario, it occurred to me that every road, bridge, transit installation, building, park, quay, the Toronto Islands themselves that I passed on the route would not have been possible without the expertise of consulting engineers. The engineering world and, in particular,the consulting engineering industry is deeply woven into the fabric of our dynamic society. I am extremely excited to lend my voice in helping to ensure that this important educational aspect of ACEC-Ontario’s mission continues.
Upon assuming this role, my first order of business is to familiarize myself with ACEC-Ontario’s strategic plan for 2023-2026. It is a thoughtful and ambitious plan that sets the stage for significant advancements in the consulting engineering sector in Ontario and I look forward to working with the association’s team of dedicated volunteers and staff to take this plan through to fruition.
One of the critical areas highlighted in the strategic plan is advocacy. Building on its proud legacy, ACEC-Ontario aims to be an even stronger and more unified voice for the consulting engineering profession, advocating for fair and equitable procurement practices, regulatory reforms and infrastructure investments. Working with the association’s strong staff team, I am committed to amplifying this voice, working closely with government officials, industry stakeholders, and ACEC-Ontario’s member firms to bring about positive change.
In addition to advocacy, another crucial aspect of my role will be fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among ACEC-Ontario’s diverse membership. The association is home to a vibrant community of consulting engineering companies, each with unique expertise and perspectives. By facilitating collaboration and promoting best practices, we can collectively raise the bar and deliver exceptional services that directly benefits the community in which we all live.
Furthermore, I am particularly excited about the strategic plan’s emphasis on innovation and sustainability. As the world grapples with complex challenges such as climate change and urbanization, consulting engineers have a significant role to play in finding innovative and sustainable solutions. ACEC-Ontario will actively support its member companies in this mission, and I look forward to many insightful discussions at the upcoming Engineering Means Sustainability Forum this September. I hope to meet many of you there.
I am grateful for the trust and confidence that the Board of Directors has placed in me. Together with a committed membership and staff team and guided by a dynamic new strategic plan, I am confident that we will drive ACEC-Ontario forward to build on its proud legacy and history of success.
Cheers to 2023 and beyond.
Andrew Hurd
ACEC-Ontario Executive Director