President’s Message: August 2025

Dear FES members,

It is with immense honor and enthusiasm that I address you as your incoming president. As we open this new chapter, I’m filled with optimism for what we can achieve together.   This year, our theme will be about embracing change while reaffirming our commitment to the underlying principles that make FES such a vital organization for engineering professionals in Florida.

First, let’s take a moment to celebrate the remarkable successes of the past year. Under the strong leadership of our past president, we made significant strides in strengthening our society. Improved budget transparency will provide us with a clearer financial picture, empowering us to make more informed decisions for our future. Additionally, the successful sale of our headquarters building was a crucial step, demonstrating our ability to adapt and strategically manage our assets. These accomplishments illustrate our dedication and the hard work of many, of which we should all be incredibly proud.

As we look ahead, we will continue to embrace change as a catalyst for growth and improvement. Two critical initiatives are already underway that will shape the future of FES: the search for a new Executive Director and the pursuit of a permanent headquarters location. These endeavors are not just about filling roles or finding a building; they are about finding the right leadership and the ideal environment to support our mission for years to come. We will approach these searches with diligence and a clear vision for the future, ensuring we find individuals and a location that align with our values and aspirations.

This year, I also want us to refocus on our core mission and vision. Why does the Florida Engineering Society exist?

We are here to “promote the ethical and competent practice of engineering, to advocate for the profession, to foster professional development, and to serve the public welfare”. Everything we do, every decision we make, must align with these ideals. By getting “back to basics” and grounding ourselves in our purpose, we can ensure that FES continues to be the leading voice for engineers in Florida.

I am confident that by working together, both internally and with our colleagues at ACEC Florida, embracing necessary changes, and steadfastly committing to our mission, we will achieve even greater things in the coming year.

Sincerely,

David Keough, PE 
President, Florida Engineering Society