21 new graduates of ACEC New York Leadership Institute

NEW YORK On June 10 at the annual meeting of the American Council of Engineering Companies of New York, 21 professionals accepted their plaques as new graduates of the 2014 ACEC New York Leadership Institute. "During the course of the ACEC Leadership Institute, I have been able to expand my emotional intelligence, allowing me to have a better foundation to build my leadership skills," said Jason Sylvain, P.E., an engineer with the AKF Group LLC, who was part of the 2014 graduating class. "I look forward to using my skills to help lead and encourage leadership in others in all aspects of my life." The Leadership Institute, which began in 2007, is developed specifically for engineering professionals. Students learn a number of techniques to improve their leadership skills, including listening and communication for motivation, leading in conflict situations, and creating a leadership culture. The program is open to all ACEC New York members and non-members. Enrollment opens each spring and closes in early fall. The program includes eight sessions, as well as an individual one-on-one session. Sessions are interactive, and students complete a personal vision and define their own personal leadership style. Students who complete the full program will graduate and be formally recognized as a distinguished member of their profession and professional organization at the annual meeting, held in June of each year. "The program began because our member firms were asking for leadership training for their young professionals," said Gina Potfora, CMP, who is both the coordinator for and a graduate of the program. ACEC New York is entering their seventh year of the Leadership Institute. While the program is usually only held in New York City, the 2015 Institute is also being offered in Syracuse. "Currently, there's planning underway to offer events and programs specifically for our alumni," said Potfora. "We are looking forward to growing this program in the near future." All classes are limited in size, and the New York City program has already sold out for the 2015 Institute. There is still seating available for the Syracuse program, though availability is quickly dwindling. "Leadership is a highly sought-after skill, especially in today's competitive job market," said Jay Simson, CAE, president of ACEC New York. "We look forward to graduating another class of outstanding leaders." ACEC New York is a proactive coalition of 280 firms representing every discipline of engineering related to the built environment—civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, environmental, geotechnical—and affiliated companies. Our shared goals are to further the business interests of our membership, enhance the quality and safety of the environment we live and work in, and help ensure the vitality of our communities.