Member Benefits:

Legislative Advocacy  
One of the primary benefits of ACEC membership is the Council's legislative initiatives, which serve to protect our firm's business interests. ACEC has partnered with AIA and MSPE to retain the services of Kelley Cawthorne, rated as one of Michigan's most effective lobbying firms. Legislative Bulletins are sent out on a regular basis to keep members abreast of key issues and concerns affecting our industry profession. ACEC hosts a “legislative day” each year to provide members with an opportunity to meet their respective Senator and Representative. Opportunities are available to participate in the federal process through the Consulting Congress in Washington, D.C.

Professional Development
Continuing education programs in all aspects of business management within our industry are in demand. ACEC offers a wide-range of educational opportunities each year which help you train your staff and leadership to become better business people. Special seminars and membership meetings focus on specific business topics including financial and risk management, human resources issues, marketing and business development, and legislative and regulatory issues. CEO roundtables and a mentoring program is also available to members seeking advice and management suggestions from more experienced members of ACEC/M.

Insurance and Retirement Programs  
A complete line of benefits are available to member firms. ACEC offers insurance and retirement programs, developed by engineers for engineers, through three national trusts. The Life/Health insurance trust, the business insurance trust, and the retirement trust provide cost savings opportunities available only to ACEC member firms.

Peer Review  
A valuable learning tool, the peer review offers management a means to discover their firm's strengths and weaknesses in all segments of business. A team of experienced colleagues is available to visit and evaluate your firm and provide specific recommendations for improvement. The peer review program is coordinated by national staff of ACEC.

Awards Program  
Sponsored by ACEC/M, an annual Engineering and Surveying Excellence Awards Competition provides member firms an opportunity to showcase their special projects. State and national awards are presented resulting in positive public relations through media coverage. Competition entries are displayed in public buildings and at special events throughout the state as part of the awards competition's traveling exhibit.

Networking Opportunities  
Networking is fundamental to individual and firm success in today's competitive environment. Opportunities to form alliances with other firms and to exchange information on the latest technology and practical field applications enable continued growth within our profession.

ACEC/M offers numerous networking opportunities. General membership meetings, seminars and conferences are well-attended and promote interaction. Various committees provide members the opportunity to share ideas and address specific challenges faced by member firms.

Partnership Development  
Partnering is more than just a buzzword - it is and important aspect of doing business. It strengthens the credibility of our profession. ACEC/M is leading the way by developing partnerships with state and local agencies and other professional associations. Members are offered the unique opportunity to meet on a personal level with department heads and industry leaders. ACEC has maintained a written partnership with the Michigan Department of Transportation for nearly 15 years.

Qualifications-Based Selection
ACEC/Michigan is a founding member of the Qualifications Based Selection (QBS) Coalition, a volunteer organization committed to working with local city, township, village and county officials to develop a tailor-made process for selecting design professional firms based on their qualifications and competence in meeting the owner's needs.

National Presence
When you become a member of ACEC/Michigan, you also become a member of the National ACEC. Being located in Washington D.C., the national staff is working to protect your business interests while being closely connected with the Member Organizations located in each state. For additional member benefits, visit ACEC website at: www.acec.org .