I am truly honored to serve as President of the ASHE Southwest Penn Section for the 2025–2026 year. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our Immediate Past President, Clayton Vanverth, P.E., for his leadership over the past year and for the mentorship he has provided along the way. I look forward to continuing the initiatives Clayton introduced and building upon them to further strengthen our section.
​
Although I have been part of the highway industry and ASHE for only eight years, I have quickly come to appreciate the significant impact that involvement in our section can have. ASHE events have provided opportunities to connect with professionals at every stage of their careers and from a wide range of disciplines—relationships that might not have developed otherwise. These connections have been instrumental in my professional growth. In a time when digital communication dominates, it's easy to overlook the enduring value of meaningful, in-person interaction.
​
Looking ahead, my key priorities include encouraging new and younger members to join our section, fostering a culture of mentorship, and continuing efforts to modernize and enhance our organization. The Southwest Penn Section is well-known as one of the most welcoming in our region, and I am committed to upholding and advancing that reputation in the coming year.
That reputation is not the result of leadership alone—it is built on the dedication and engagement of each one of you. For that, I offer my heartfelt thanks. Your commitment to ASHE and to the highway industry is what has sustained our section’s success for over 60 years. Let’s continue that legacy—together.
​
I encourage all members to reach out to me at abaird@spkengr.com, or connect with any of our board members, to share your thoughts and suggestions on how we can continue to improve our section. I look forward to engaging with you throughout the year and seeing many of you at our upcoming meetings and events!
​
Looking forward to a great year,
​
Ally