Message from the ACEC/G President..
Atlanta- A Megalopolis?
I had a very fortunate childhood in Decatur, Georgia. I knew the City’s mayor- my Dad (Jack Hamilton) and he knew a lot of movers and shakers in the metro area including Mayor Hartsfield and, my favorite- Richard Rich (Rich’s Department store). So, when my 5th grade teacher (Mrs. Williams) assigned us to prepare a social studies project about the future of Atlanta, the Mayor (Dad) suggested that I do an expose about Atlanta potentially being a Megalopolis (mind you, this is before the sign at the Darlington apartments said our population was even near 1,000,000). My Dad was just home from strategic planning meetings with 5 other Mayors, County leaders from 5 counties and of course, the Governor and Lt Governor. The term Megalopolis came up as a potential future descriptor of the former Marthasville.
A Megalopolis is a large urban complex and usually involves several cities, towns, counties and communities that link together (usually along transit corridors that move people and commerce). Megalopolis is a Greek word for “Great City.” Megalopoli, founded in 371BC is a town in western prefecture of Arcadia and had a characteristic of ‘unbridled growth in all directions.” I recall that I concluded that yes, the ATL could be a Megalopolis- no oceans or other geographic constraints to stop us- why not?
I recall drawing a map (with no I-285 on it, as it was not built then), showing the region and our neighboring states, and how this Megalopolis would grow and grow (smartly mind you) and perhaps connect to the outlying cities – Macon, Columbus, Greenville, Augusta, Chattanooga and when connected – we have our Megalopolis with Atlanta in the middle. My study concluded that climate, resources, and commerce, combined with transportation would be the drivers of our growth. My Dad’s strategic group of the 60’s cited two potential problems however. Without enough water or great transportation solutions the growth and our economy will suffer – not only in Atlanta, but throughout Georgia.
And so, here we are 50 years later and these two issues are at the forefront – Water and Transportation. If we miss the 2012 opportunities to address these issues, we set the stage for a very difficult future for Atlanta and Georgia going forward. I could write an entire piece on water as I have spent more time there. This is the year for transportation commitment as the TSPLOST vote inches closer and closer (July 31, 2012). This transportation related vote is likely the most important event for Engineers and for all Georgians- I think more important for Georgia than who occupies the White House for the next 4 years.
I am proud to say that ACECG is very involved with the transportation issue. Our advocacy for you includes engaged participation by our ACEC leaders:
-CTM (Citizens for Transportation Mobility) Board of Advisors: Tom Leslie, PE, Ed Ellis, PE and Jay Wolverton, PE sit on this Board for both ACECG and GEA.
-First Friday Forum: Tom, Ed and Jay also attend and provide input on behalf of ACECG at the first Friday Forum, a coalition of 80 organizations with an interest in the Metro Atlanta referendum, in one room, once a month for the purpose of sharing information and clarifying policy, priorities and strategy.
-CTM Finance Committee: Tom Leslie sits on this Committee.
-GDOT/GRTA/ACECG TIA Implementation Work Group includes the following ACECG members:
Doris Willmer (Willmer Engineering)
Grady Smith (Jacobs)
Jim Hullett (RS&H)
Joe Macrina (Wolverton)
John Heath (Heath & Lineback)
Loretta Washington (LCW)
Rick Toole (WR Toole)
Terry Kazmerzak (Parsons Brinkerhoff)
Tommy Crochet (McGee Partners)
Davita Jenkins (CH2M Hill)
Richard Meehan (Lowe Engineers)
ACECG is steadfast in advocacy for Georgia engineering firms involved with transportation. Passing the TSPLOST is in everyone’s best interest. Here is how you can help:
-Conduct a lunch and learn in your office on why passing the TSPLOST is so important. If you need information for your meeting contact me, Tom Leslie or Gwen Brandon.
-Communicate to your personal network of friends and to your colleagues why this is so important – this affects all Georgians.
-Vote and encourage others to vote on July 31st – even if you have to submit via absentee ballot!!
Whether or not Atlanta becomes a Megalopolis is secondary to how GREAT Georgia is – passing the TSPLOST is an important piece of our future. Show up on 7/31/2012 and vote Yes!
Sincerely,
James R. Hamilton, President ACECG
What is in Your Trophy Case?
Not long ago I visited Graceland in Memphis, TN. Whether you are (or not) a huge Elvis fan, I suggest you put a Graceland visit on your list. To say the least he was the most famous person on the planet back in the late 50’s and 60’s. Everything he touched set trends in music and he helped create and advance rock and roll. At Graceland you will see the boom-boom room, the pink Cadillac, the outfits he wore, his private racquetball court, his airplane and other parts of the King’s existence. Also you will see all of his trophies- mostly gold records, letters, mementos and other significant items attributed to his performances, his music and his star power. These are symbols, as they are, to his excellence in his profession.
So, what is in your trophy case???
Recently we recognized engineering firms and individual Engineers for applications of excellence in their practice of Engineering. None performed what they do in front of standing room audiences; none get standing ovations for calculating the static and dynamic loads on super structures or for a flood model of a River basin- or other significant feats. But the projects built through engineering excellence are worth more than the trophies in Elvis’ trophy case. If you are like me, when you drive by one of your projects you take great pride in what you helped build― a sewage treatment plan, an earthen dam, a high rise hotel, office tower or multifamily structure, a school, a highway, a municipal water system, a nuclear power plant, an auto assembly plant, a stadium, etc. These are your trophies and are a testament to your skill and excellence. In Engineering – our trophies are everywhere and are a testament to excellence in what we do. Be proud and tell your story—you should.
I was recently asked “After this recession, would you recommend Engineering to a young person as a career worth living?” Without hesitation my answer is YES. What we do means so much to so many – today, tomorrow, and for many years to come. I challenge you to perform your work with excellence each day and continue your Kaizen quest for continuous improvement of your skills and your contribution to our profession.
To those firms and individual Engineers we celebrated during Engineers’ Week – you have my standing ovation. You make me proud of what I did, continue to do, and will continue to do until…the Engineer has left the building.
Thanks for your contribution to Excellence in Engineering in Georgia.
All the best…
James R. Hamilton, PE
President- ACEC/G
Governmental Affairs—my personal connection
At some point in running my business I took an interest in what was going on outside the walls of my business and took notice of our industry as a whole. A huge stepping stone for me involved a trip to Washington, DC with Tom Leslie. I owe Tom huge thanks for what I learned on this trip and the many subsequent trips. Not only does Tom know how laws are made but he has a keen ability to really “connect” with all facets of the process (mostly the people) both in Washington and here in Georgia. During this trip I began to recognize how the process could affect the success of my business day to day, year to year, and during the life of my business. And, I learned we can have a voice in the process.
I have been on the ACEC National Washington trip 5 times and will be on my 6th “fly in” this Spring of 2012. Not only do we get an understanding from ACEC National about upcoming legislation affecting the business of engineering but we also get “face time” with our Georgia congressional delegation. You cannot imagine the significance of these meetings until you sit in the hallowed halls, within the historic chambers, conference rooms, committee rooms, or their surprisingly small yet functional offices where the future of our Nation is crafted. Some call it making sausage (creating law) – I find it beyond impressive and it takes an unbelievable commitment for those we elect to do what they do 18+ hours a day.
I have a special story of one Washington trip in the mid-nineties when Senator Isakson was Congressman Isakson…
One evening of an ACEC National dinner we invited “Johnny” to have dinner with us- the response was iffy, at best, as their calendars are often overloaded and often changing based on the immediacies of the day. Seated at a 12-person table with an empty chair next to me I was halfway into a glass of red wine (pre-dinner) after pounding the Washington pavement most of the day. The Georgia ACEC delegation had launched into our dialogue of the needs of the next day- what Congressmen and Senators we would see (hopefully) in their Capitol offices and what we would say about infrastructure issues, taxes on professional services, and other current issues we had on our agenda. I was turned to my right and did not notice our Congressman quietly slipping into the seat next to me- soon a genuine warm firm handshake and a hello- “My name is Johnny Isakson glad you came to Washington”. After 20 minutes of round table discussion of policy and his advisement on what is on the Congressional agenda pertaining to engineering he turned to me for a brief one to one conversation. I asked Johnny how he dealt with the constant lobby advice and how he really made his final decision on key matters- feeling a bit embarrassed about a seemingly non life changing superficial question. His answer changed my approach to Governmental Affairs as an Engineer. Congressman Isakson said-
“I came here tonight as I have known Tom Leslie, ACEC/G and many of you for years. I have huge respect for ACEC/G and Engineers in general as a matter of fact. When I hear your input – I know it comes from an Engineering approach to problem solving. It involves the real facts (no spins) and evaluates the real outcomes. Important to me is that you always contemplate on how decisions affect others- yet it is always the best approach. It is how you practice everyday. It is how you run your businesses. I have two other dinners to attend tonight but I would not have missed this opportunity to spend 30 minutes with the Engineers from Georgia. I need your input and advice as it is very important to me.” Wow, how can you top that?
I am proud of what ACEC/G does in Governmental Affairs for our membership. And I am proud of our association with the Georgia Legislative Coalition through GEA. We Engineers do have the facts. We do have the problem solving technique. And yes we have recognition on the impact of our decisions- it is just how we are wired. It is really all about the “correct” answer- isn’t it?
There is a long list of bills in Washington and in our State Legislature that go through the sausage process year after year. Tom Leslie has led the charge for many years with dedicated volunteers from our ranks and with the expert advice of Joe Tanner and Associates. We have advised, we have negotiated, we have won, and we have lost but we have been totally engaged in the process due to Tom’s passion and perseverance.
Governmental affairs ARE very important to your business and to you individually as you practice Engineering- and ACEC/G is your advocate in this every day.
And, again- many thanks to Tom Leslie for fueling my passion about Governmental Affairs.
Please ask me the next time you see me- “How can I make a difference in Governmental Affairs.” There is room for you on our team!!
Sincerely,
James R Hamilton, PE
President – ACEC/G
July-August 2011
This year will be unbelievable!!!
It is indeed a privilege serving as your president this year. I pledge to work very hard and I am lucky to be surrounded by very smart and committed individuals that are serving us all very well. My Dad said “surround yourself with the best and some of it will rub off on you…..work with people that are smarter than you and you will look smarter yourself.” These words are very true. All members of ACEC/G are fortunate to be led by a robust and committed board and staff that work very hard for you every day – even in the toughest economy since the depression.
Before I go further, I wish to thank Tom Gambino for an outstanding job as ACEC/G President this past year. According to Abraham Lincoln a great thinking leader does three things well:
- Solves problems
- Creates opportunities
- Enriches the human condition
Tom did all three of these for ACEC/G. Our ancient dues structure was finally revised to provide a terrific planning tool to empower our organization for decades to come (problem solved). A terrific 5-year plan was developed during his term (opportunities created). ACEC/G was enhanced through Tom’s emphasis on the Value Proposition, Heightened Communication and encouraged participation at all levels (human condition enriched). Tom made a difference and a lasting one. He sets a great example for me to follow and that is a huge benefit.
Like Tom, I invite you to join us as we are at a key turning point. You can be a part of the committees and task forces and realize this picture of success.
Imagine a date in the not so distant future when everything is perfect for your business. This is how ACEC/G created that perfect day:
- ACEC provided the structure, guidance and training that member companies needed to collaborate in new ways.
- ACEC/G’s communication to member companies and to the public was informative and ahead of the curve.
- Individual members met people and firm’s whose support they needed through ACEC/G.
- Thanks to ACEC/G’s political radar it kept members and the public informed of relevant political and legislative developments in time to prepare and take action.
- ACEC/G not only reports on political and legislative developments, it impacted them.
- The Emerging Trends Task Force (ETTF) kick-started by Doris Wilmer is a solid part of the ACEC/G culture.
- Members of ACEC/G are successful emerging trend followers as they make key business decisions from ETTF’s intelligence. Their continued success is inevitable.
- Armed with ETTF information ACEC/G firms attract the attention of decision makers which affect their businesses in time before they can be influenced by others.
- ACEC/G firms make more money than non ACEC/G firms.
This is our vision and your future as an ACEC/G member firm. If you are not involved in our organization – join us now! This year ACEC/G will add four key elements to focus our implementation:
VALUE PROPOSITION – members will clearly see a return on investment at the end of this year.
COMMUNICATION – members will see a robust communication program
CHANGE – ACEC/G will be a strategic issues driven organization as ETTF is a solid part of our culture
ORGANIZE – we will enhance the organization structure of ACEC/G to be the best organization for member firms.
I thank you again for the opportunity to serve you and look forward to working with each of you throughout this year.
All the best,
James R. Hamilton, PE
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