A Message From FES President Dr. Charles Davis
Dear FES members,
We can say the train is moving, so let us get started. Reflecting on my message in August, engineering is the foundation of the world that sets trends. As engineers, we pledge to uphold the highest moral standards in the development of innovative modern technologies and essential infrastructure, among other contributions to the state’s continuous advancement. Our work has an impact on every aspect of our lives.
One of our biggest challenges as engineers is keeping up with the quick changes that are taking place in our society. Because of this, industry partners and educators alike recognize the value and necessity of workforce development, which is achieved by recognizing and addressing the critical needs of a local labor force to boost competitiveness and productivity. Planning, educating, and creating policies and educational initiatives are all included in this. In contrast to job training, workforce development takes a longer view and concentrates on the potential for employees to develop over time. Because of digital disruption, automation, and the rise of new industries, our world is changing quickly. Maintaining our moral values while adjusting to these changes is crucial.
We can implement workforce planning by analyzing, forecasting, and planning workforce supply and demand, assessing gaps, and determining target talent management interventions to ensure that an organization has the “right people, right skills in the right places, and at the right time to fulfill our goals” by adjusting to these changes and upholding our moral principles.
This is why I would like to dedicate this month’s message to the Florida Engineering Leadership Institute (FELI) Class of 2024, who graduated during the FES|ACEC Florida Annual Conference at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry.
The FELI Class of 2024 consisted of forty engineering professionals from around the state of Florida, who concentrated on figuring out how they might have the biggest influence on both the future of engineering and our communities. To further the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) STEM Outreach and Workforce Development in the community, the class established a legacy collaboration with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). Through their collaboration with FDOT, the class was able to purchase and distribute approximately 100 AASHTO STEM Outreach Solution boxes to educators in several Florida districts. They did not just stop there! This amazing class started a five-year extension of the FDOT financing plan for teacher training and new box purchases.
Changes like this in the world will help pave the way for engineers’ future by uniting us and bringing our communities together to create a positive impact.
Thank you again for your confidence, guidance, and support. I am extremely excited about what FELI continues to achieve and for other opportunities as part of my goals and vision for FES and what we can execute as a team over the next twelve months and beyond.
Sincerely,
Charles W. Davis, Ph.D., SSGB | Associate Professor
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University | davisc14@erau.edu
