Congratulations to our very own Cash Canfield (Indianapolis Design Center) as he begins his term as ACEC Indiana’s 2021-2022 president. In a column appearing in this month’s ACEC Indiana newsletter, Cash outlined four industry issues ACEC Indiana is actively addressing during the next year.

1. Workforce development – Fewer students entering the engineering and construction fields coupled with baby boomers retiring in increasing numbers are creating staffing challenges for many firms. ACEC Indiana is looking at developing more programs to address the shortage of professionals in market sectors.
2. Structural safety – This is a hot issue under more scrutiny in light of the Florida condominium collapse. ACEC Indiana continues to work with the state’s Fire Prevention & Building Safety Commission to undertake regular, incremental build code updates to ensure building safety.
3. Cyber threats – ACEC Indiana’s IT forum offers member firms opportunities to learn more about how to protect against hacks and ransomware attacks.
4. Changing work environments – ACEC Indiana is involved in helping member firms navigate the issues around adapting to the “new normal” workplace from improving inclusiveness to hybrid office settings combining remote work and work-from-home schedules with the traditional office setting.

“I am looking forward to leading ACEC Indiana during this exciting and critical time for our organization as we contemplate growth and continued stability,” Cash said. “In particular, I am excited to lead the organization in updating our strategic plan. ACEC Indiana is constantly looking for ways to provide additional value to our membership.”