President’s Message: January 2026

Fellow FES members,

As we welcome the New Year, it’s a natural time to reflect on where we’ve been and, more importantly, where we’re headed. A new year brings fresh opportunities, renewed energy, and a chance to build on the strong foundation of service and leadership that defines the Florida Engineering Society. I’m excited about the momentum we’re carrying into 2026 and the many ways our members will continue to shape Florida’s future through engineering excellence and public service.

With new beginnings also comes new leadership. I am pleased to welcome Dierdre Finn as FES’s new Executive Director officially. Dierdre brings a wealth of experience, a collaborative leadership style, and a clear commitment to advancing FES’s mission. We are confident she will be a tremendous asset to our Society, our chapters, and our members as we move forward together.

The upcoming legislative session will be here soon, and it is more important than ever for engineers to have a strong, informed voice in Tallahassee. FES continues to advance key resolutions that support public safety, professional licensure, and sound infrastructure policy. These efforts reflect our shared responsibility to advocate for the profession and the communities we serve.

I look forward to seeing many of you at PE Legislative Days on January 20–21, where we will engage directly with lawmakers and reinforce the vital role engineers play in Florida’s growth and resilience. Thank you for your continued involvement, dedication, and support. Together, we are well-positioned to make this new year one of progress, impact, and meaningful new beginnings.

Sincerely,

David Keough, PE 
President, Florida Engineering Society