More than 10 years ago, I was gently pushed to volunteer with the Illinois Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) to fill a professional organization void. I paired myself with a technical group that matched my discipline and that, thankfully, had some openings at the time.
It soon became clear to me that volunteering with ASCE is so much more personal. I served on various unofficial and all official roles within that technical group. I then graduated to the Illinois Section Board. Along the way, I participated in many other activities such as the Future City Competition, two Report Cards, and several legislative drive downs to Springfield. Looking back, I really have not taken any “time off” from ASCE since I started.
Because of the people I have met, the experiences I have been part of, and the things I have learned, I truly want to see my “ASCE career” through to one day give the President’s speech at the October Annual Dinner and possibly beyond.
Now with a wife and son and still living in the suburbs, the physical act of volunteering with ASCE has definitely become more difficult. But, it is with their support to my commitment to ASCE volunteerism that I continue as strong as ever. My only regret today is that I did not start sooner in my career or, even better, while still in college. And, this is the message I now share with my young staff and, in a few years, that I will share with my son.
Brian L. Pawula, P.E., PMP
IS-ASCE, Treasurer
IS-ASCE, Advertising Director