Engineering Council, Wheat Ridge Raise Awareness of Engineering Profession

The American Council of Engineering Cos. of Colorado and the city of Wheat Ridge have taken a grassroots approach to raising awareness of the engineering profession during Engineers’ Week, Feb. 17 – 23.

Engineer's Week recognizes the contribution of engineers to society and places emphasis on the need to grow a diverse and well-educated future engineering work force. Activities focus on the role engineers play in almost every aspect of daily life.

Promoting pre-college literacy in math and science and knowledge of engineering careers is also vital. The engineering industry is concerned about the potential for skilled work-force shortages created by retirement of baby boomers, as well as diverse industry competition, which is attracting engineering graduates into professions other than engineering such as technology following graduation, according ACEC/CO officials.

ACEC/CO and Wheat Ridge are showcasing “Engineering Wheat Ridge” exhibits at City Hall, located at 29th and Wadsworth, and the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, located at 4005 Kipling St. These exhibits highlight engineering infrastructure projects currently in progress within the city and provide information on what engineers do, engineering scholarships, and intern programs to encourage student interest.

“The city is excited about showcasing the engineering profession as part of National Engineers’ Week,” said Mayor Jerry DiTullio. “Local government provides new and exciting opportunities for engineers to make a difference through the design, development and construction of infrastructure projects that positively affect the lives of citizens every day.”

Additionally, ACEC/CO produced 1.5 hours of programming highlighting nationwide engineering feats of the past century and a collection of short-form programs produced by the National Engineers’ Week Foundation. The city of Wheat Ridge is airing the programming on local access Channel 8 at 11 a.m. on Sundays and 10 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays throughout February.

“Engineering is an interesting and exciting profession that involves problem solving and opportunities for innovation,” said Marilen Reimer, executive director, ACEC/CO. “This grassroots approach is designed to get that message out.

“We are pleased that the city of Wheat Ridge had an interest in this effort, and ACEC/CO plans to take this approach to additional municipalities throughout the state in 2009,” she added. “This is an investment in our youth, our work force and our future.”

Click here for more DDJ Features >>