Orange County Branch Newsletter

February 2016

President's Message

THE BIG GAME

By Steven King, P.E.

By: Steven King, PE

As February rolls in again, there’s no doubt we’re all getting ready for the big game. 2016 is different though, the game is hosted in a structure that has received numerous accolades from architectural and engineering communities in California. The building was designated LEED Platinum and has received awards from the American Institute of Architects, American Institute of Steel, American Public Works Association, US Green Building Council, ENR and ASCE, just to name a few.

Now I’m sure Denver and Carolina fans are excited, but I’m not talking about Santa Clara’s Levi’s Stadium where Superbowl 50 was played;  I’m talking about a building right here in Orange County.  A different structure that has received just as many accolades and will be hosting what could turn out to be an even bigger game.

Kicking-off National Engineers week, on Saturday, Feb. 20, Southern California’s brightest young minds will be competing in the 22nd Annual Popsicle Stick Bridge Competition at the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC). 

National Engineers Week is Feb.  21 through 27 and ASCE is partnering with DiscoverE to shine a spotlight on engineering. Engineers Week is a time to celebrate how we make a difference in the world, increase public dialogue about the need for engineers, and to bring engineering to life for kids, educators, and parents.

If you’re looking for activities to do with your kids, check out ASCEville for fun and educational opportunities or reach out to our local K-12 Outreach Committee for assistance. Our K-12 Outreach Committee Chair, Amy Choi, E.I.T. continues to do an excellent job working with our youth communities.     And OC YMF for ensuring the Popsicle Stick Bridge Competition is hosted in Orange County this year and their tireless efforts for organizing and planning the event is never overlooked by participants and attendees. For those of you who think I’m going a little overboard for this competition, try looking 50 years into the future. By 2066, you may not recall Von Miller’s MVP performance, Peyton Manning’s last game (maybe), or that the Broncos even won Superbowl 50. But, I’ll bet we will be able look around our communities and see and experience the impact that civil engineers have had on our quality of life. The student’s competing will move on to build bridges, tunnels, and skyscrapers and are the next generation of civil engineering stars – how could you miss our future in action?

ASCE-OC is looking for volunteers to judge, score, film or just help facilitate this must-see competition. Even if you cannot stay long, I encourage you to check out the award-winning ARTIC, take in the sights and sounds of one of Orange County’s iconic buildings and cheer on your favorite popsicle stick bridge team.

Come out to Anaheim on Saturday, Feb. 20 and be part of this year’s biggest game!