Date: April 16, 2024
Dear Colleges and Friends in NAFE:
It has been well over two months since our very successful winter conference in Daytona. ; It's already been an eventful year. As I write this, Q2 newly is underway, and I have been through an earthquake and eclipse. Hopefully, that is it for the year.
I am working diligently with our new ED Amanda Hendley, our board, and the conference team to get the ball rolling early on our Ann Arbor Summer Conference. Both the Saturday and Sunday programs are going to be great. If you have an outstanding abstract to submit, get them in ASAP. Because several members have asked, I have started the conversation with the education committee about having some form of conference proceedings for Sunday. We're actively talking about this, but this kind of change requires a board vote and will likely not happen before Ann Arbor.
In other news, we are working towards getting a dedicated NAFE job board up and running. This would be dedicated to helping place engineers in full-time roles at firms and will not conflict with our NAFE1 referral practices. We have other projects in the works that I am excited to share with you in the coming months. More details to follow.
Our membership keeps growing - we have the highest member count since 2020 and I've never seen more enthusiasm for our profession! Outside of our North American borders, we are seeing great interest in our organization internationally and will be exploring how we can support the professional on a global scale. In the meantime, please spread the word to other forensic engineers about the great benefits of joining the academy.
I am working with Amanda on the new NAFE strategic plan and there will be much to share at our next board meeting.
Lastly, I want to send my appreciation to all of the NAFE volunteers who have dedicated themselves to the critical work performed on our various committees within the academy. Let's continue to work hand in hand, shaping the future of our profession and expanding our reach both nationally and globally. Together, we are unstoppable. Thank you for your unwavering commitment and support.
Regards,
Steve Pietropaolo, PE, DFE
President