Date: April 22, 2024
NSPE-NV recently held its monthly luncheon on the topic – Poops (and Urine) Don't Lie: Incorporating Wastewater-Based Epidemiology into the Design of Potable Reuse Systems – with the featured speaker Dan Gerrity, Ph.D., the principal research microbiologist at the Southern Nevada Water Authority.
Dan Gerrity, Ph.D., earned his bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees civil and environmental engineering at Arizona State University. He was previously a postdoctoral researcher for the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA), a senior engineer for Trussell Technologies in California, and an assistant and associate professor in civil and environmental engineering and construction at the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV). Now as the principal research microbiologist at SNWA, his team is applying principles of wastewater-based epidemiology to better understand the link between community health conditions and wastewater occurrence of trace organic compounds and pathogens, specifically in the context of potable reuse.
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Date: April 22, 2024
NSPE-NV is seeking an individual to serve out the rest of the term for secretary for the state society/foundation boards for the 2022-2024 term (ends June 30). We are also seeking members that would like to serve on NSPE-NV's next board for the term of July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2026.
Please contact Martin Jensen (mjensen@teamues.com) or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
Date: April 22, 2024
The Nevada State Board of Engineers and Land Surveyors will hold meetings on Tuesday, May 7 (Professional Association Liaison Committee) and on Thursday, May 9. Access meeting information here.
Date: April 22, 2024
Arizona Independent Senator Kyrsten Sinema and Nevada Rep. Susie Lee recently introduced legislation t aimed at enabling $45 million in Bureau of Reclamation funds to be used for helping the Hoover Dam, The Center Square reports.
Proponents of the "Help Hoover Dam Act" say it would cut regulations and allow the bureau to tap into the Colorado River Dam Fund to support efforts related to the dam's upkeep.
Ed Gerak, Executive Director of Irrigation and Electrical Districts of Arizona, said in a statement that the funding could help mitigate possible price increases for electricity. "This bill will allow the Bureau of Reclamation to use previously collected customer funding for its intended purposes, operation, maintenance and repair of the dam," Gerak said.
"These funds have been collected for over two decades by fiat, but they have been stranded and inaccessible to the Bureau. Hoover Dam generation is down nearly 40% during this time, due to the worst drought in modern history. This bill will allow the Bureau to maintain Hoover Dam while protecting power customers from rate shock in the near future," he continued. Read more.
Date: April 22, 2024
Nevada will be getting $2.5 million to make transportation more resilient to the impacts of climate change. The grants are part of 80 nationwide projects that will disperse $830 million in grant awards that will be handed out nationwide, KOLO8 News Now reports.
The US Department of Transportation says funds will go towards making transportation systems better able to deal with flooding, heat waves, and other disasters.
"From wildfires shutting down freight rail lines in California to mudslides closing down a highway in Colorado, from a drought causing the halt of barge traffic on the Mississippi River to subways being flooded in New York, extreme weather, made worse by climate change, is damaging America's transportation infrastructure, cutting people off from getting to where they need to go, and threatening to raise the cost of goods by disrupting supply chains," said Secretary Pete Buttigieg. "Today, through a first-of-its-kind program created by President Biden's Investing in America agenda, we are awarding nearly $830 million to make transportation infrastructure in 39 states and territories more resilient against climate change, so people and supply chains can continue to move safely." Read more.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
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Public Works Director
Boulder City, NV
Date: March 29, 2024
NSPE-NV recently held its monthly luncheon on the topic – Planning of Future Large Regional Water Facilities – with the featured speaker Janelle Boelter, P.E., the director of infrastructure for infrastructure management for the Las Vegas Valley Water District and the Southern Nevada Water Authority.
Janelle Boelter leads the Asset Management, Planning and Engineering Services, Maintenance Engineering, OT Systems & Compliance, and Facilities divisions, which collectively include nearly 200 employees, and manages a $98 million capital and operating budget. She graduated from the University of Nevada Las Vegas in 2001 with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and is a licensed professional engineer. She has worked in the utility industry for 23 years and has the highest levels of Water Operator certifications in both distribution and treatment.
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Date: March 29, 2024
NSPE-NV is seeking an individual to serve out the rest of the term for secretary for the state society/foundation boards for the 2022-2024 term (ends June 30). We are also seeking members that would like to serve on NSPE-NV's next board for the term of July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2026.
Please contact Martin Jensen (mjensen@teamues.com) or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
Date: March 29, 2024
The Nevada State Board of Engineers and Land Surveyors will hold an interim board meeting on Thursday, April 11.
Access meeting information here.
Representatives from industry, economic organizations, and academia gathered on March 14 to discuss a new industrial engineering program expected to launch in fall 2024 or spring 2025 within the College of Engineering. The Nevada System of Higher Education approved the program in November 2023, Nevada Today reports.
Industrial engineering is concerned with the design, improvement and installation of integrated systems of people, materials, information, equipment and energy. With the growth of manufacturing in Nevada, many are eager for such a program, which would be the first of its kind in the state.
"It's really needed, as we continue to diversify the economy our state," Tom Simpkins of Manufacture Nevada, an organization that bridges industry and state, said. "We have so many manufacturers moving here and this checks one of the boxes for them."
About 20 professionals from such companies as Arrow Electronics, Hamilton, Lithium Americas, Redwood Materials, Tesla and Verus as well as the Governor's Office of Economic Development, the Economic Development Authority of Northern Nevada and Manufacture Nevada gathered with Engineering leadership to listen to three industrial engineering experts and to provide input on the new program. They also discussed how to support the endeavor, whether it's providing student internships or supplying guest lecturers and adjunct staff to instruct in their areas of expertise.
Additionally, the group laid the foundation for an advisory board to guide the program and discussed the timeline for accreditation through ABET, the international nonprofit that accredits programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. Read more.
Date: March 29, 2024
NV Energy will move forward with plans to eliminate coal from the company's portfolio and add additional transmission infrastructure throughout the state after receiving approval from the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada (PUCN). The projects were included as part of the fifth amendment to the company's 2021 Integrated Resource Plan, Power Engineering reports.
This order allows NV Energy to move forward with ceasing coal operations at North Valmy Generating Station and transition to a natural gas-fired plant by the end of 2025. North Valmy is the company’s final coal plant in its portfolio. The two-unit, 522 MW facility is jointly owned by NV Energy and Idaho Power.
Unit 1, which went into service in 1981, produces 254 MW with a Babcock & Wilcox Boiler and Westinghouse turbine/generator. Unit 2 came online in 1985 and generates 268 MW with a Foster Wheeler Boiler and GE turbine/generator. Coal for the plant is shipped via railroad from various mines in Utah, Wyoming, and Colorado.
PUCN also approved NV Energy's plan to build additional transmission infrastructure to support continued growth in the state, including in the Apex area in the city of North Las Vegas – a growing center of economic development in Southern Nevada. NV Energy also received conditional approval to begin developing the Sierra Solar project, a 400 MW solar site with a four-hour battery storage system in Northern Nevada. Read more.
Date: March 29, 2024
Structures Specialist for Nevada FEMA Search and Rescue Team
Access a brochure with details about the structures specialist position. For more information or if interested in applying, please contact Raphael Thomas at raphael.thomas.usar@gmail.com or 702-455-8426.
Date: February 23, 2024
NSPE-NV held its monthly luncheon on the topic – Ethics for Engineers – with the featured speaker Steve Hiner, P.E., on February 20. Hiner is a compliance investigator for the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors and is the owner of L.S. Hiner Consulting PLLC.
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Date: February 23, 2024
Dozens of middle school students from around the valley have been using their imaginations – and science – to look into the future. At the College of Southern Nevada's North Las Vegas campus in January, there were 10 teams in the 2024 Future City competition, using only recycled materials to build models of imaginary cities 100 years from now. Take a look at the 8NewsNow report on the recent competition in Nevada.
Date: February 23, 2024
Volunteers are needed for grading exams on Saturday, March 2, at the UNLV Engineering Building from 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. No experience necessary and answer keys will be provided to volunteers! PDH credit available for volunteering. RSVP to brook.demitropoulos@jacobs.com.
Date: February 23, 2024
NSPE-NV is seeking an individual to serve out the rest of the term for secretary for the state society/foundation boards for the 2022-2024 term (ends June 30). We are also seeking members that would like to serve on NSPE-NV's next board for the term of July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2026.
Please contact Martin Jensen (mjensen@teamues.com) or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
Date: February 23, 2024
Executive Director Search
The Nevada State Board of Engineers and Land Surveyors (NVBPELS) has begun the search process for a new Executive Director. Submissions from qualified candidates will be accepted until Friday, March 1.
The Executive Director serves as the agency head for the board and is charged with executing the board's strategic plan, carrying out board policies and directives, and administration of Nevada Revised Statues and Nevada Administrative Code in support of regulating 22,000 licensees and certificate holders. The board has two offices in Reno and Las Vegas. The selected applicant's primary work location is preferred to be in the Reno office, however Las Vegas is an option. Access more information about the position and how to apply.
Board Hearing - Intent to Adopt Regulations
The NVBPELS will conduct a public hearing to receive comments from all interested persons regarding the adoption of regulations relating to executive orders 2023-003 and 2023-004 issued by Governor Lombardo on January 12, 2023, that pertain to Chapter 625 of the Nevada Administrative Code.
The public hearing will be held at 1755 E Plumb Lane, Suite 258, Reno, NV 89502, at 9:45a.m., Thursday, March 14. Participation is also available virtually via Zoom. View the agenda.
Date: February 23, 2024
Structures Specialist for Nevada FEMA Search and Rescue Team
Access a brochure with details about the structures specialist position. For more information or if interested in applying, please contact Raphael Thomas at raphael.thomas.usar@gmail.com or 702-455-8426.
Date: January 19, 2024
NSPE-NV held its monthly luncheon on the topic – Welding Topics and Practical Knowledge You Didn’t Learn in Engineering School – with the featured speaker Torie Winton, P.E., on January 16.
Torie Winton started her career as an intern for the City of Las Vegas Department of Public Works prior to working for multiple companies as a special inspector. After gaining practical experience inspecting various structural, land development, and infrastructure projects, she accepted a position as an engineering associate with the public works department. Her interest in the vertical world caused her to transfer to the Department of Building & Safety where she now serves as the building & safety manager over the engineering section. In addition to working for the City of Las Vegas, she is a part-time instructor at the College of Southern Nevada in their Welding Technologies program.
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Date: January 19, 2024
Patty Mamola, P.E., the executive director of the Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, is featured in a Nevada Business article about the contributions that engineers make to society. Access the article here.
Date: January 19, 2024
The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors will hold a meeting on January 24. Access meeting information here.
Date: January 19, 2024
Lithium exploration, geothermal development and expanding transmission capacity are key topics in the drive for green energy development in Nevada. But regional transportation commissions throughout the state are looking to another form of green energy to reduce their carbon footprint: hydrogen.
The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada added two hydrogen fuel cell electric buses to its fleet earlier this year, the first of their kind to operate in the state, The Nevada Independent reports. Its regional counterpart in Washoe County is rolling out its first two hydrogen fuel cell buses in early 2024, with six more expected to come online later in the year.
The buses are fueled by compressed hydrogen gas. The fuel cells in the buses combine hydrogen — the most abundant element in the universe — and oxygen to generate electricity, producing water and heat as byproducts.
All 68 of Washoe County Regional Transportation Commissions buses are powered by alternative fuel.
Southern Nevada RTC’s 400-bus fleet consists of 80% “clean” buses, mostly powered by natural gas. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, natural gas produces substantially less emissions than coal and fossil fuel. Less than 2% of its fleet consists of zero-emission buses, according to Roger Johnson, manager of zero-emission RTC fleet technology, although the agency is adding 22 hydrogen fuel cell buses in 2024 to join the two it just rolled out. Read more.
Date: January 19, 2024
NSPE-NV is seeking an individual to serve as secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
The Nevada Future City Competition is approaching in January! The competition engages with kids in grades 6-8 to help them experience engineering. Judges are needed to help score deliverables and volunteers are needed for competition that will take place on January 20. More information can be found here. Volunteers will be given PDHs for the services provided.
Please contact Brian.Kalina@swgas.com or Anthony.Fiti@snvfuturecity.org if you’re interested in volunteering or have any questions.
Date: December 20, 2023
NSPE-NV cohosted a luncheon meeting on November 28. The meeting featured a presentation on "Nevada Resort Association – Past, Present, and Future" by Valerie Valentine, the president and CEO of the Nevada Resort Association.
There's more engagement and community building to come for NSPE-NV in 2024…..Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!!
Date: December 20, 2023
The Nevada Future City Competition is approaching in January! The competition engages with kids in grades 6-8 to help them experience engineering. Judges are needed to help score deliverables and volunteers are needed for competition that will take place on January 20. More information can be found here. Volunteers will be given PDHs for the services provided.
Please contact Brian.Kalina@swgas.com or Anthony.Fiti@snvfuturecity.org if you're interested in volunteering or have any questions.
Date: December 20, 2023
The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors will hold meeting on January 24, 2024. Access meeting information here.
Date: December 20, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Please contact Martin Jensen (mjensen@teamues.com) or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
Date: December 20, 2023
Nature offered the Colorado River Basin states a reprieve last winter after a heavy snowpack and generous rainfall saved the region's two largest reservoirs from collapse.
But one good year won't solve decades of drought in the West, and the deadline for a new set of rules to manage the Colorado River looms over seven states dependent on its flow.
Top water officials for the seven Colorado River Basin states met last week during this year's Colorado River Water Users Association conference in Las Vegas. With a few more years of stability secured for the river, state representatives resumed negotiating a new compromise for how they will share — and cut back on — water use after 2026.
States will begin crafting their proposals by March of 2024 before finalizing a new agreement by the 2026 deadline. Negotiators acknowledged they have three options to decide how states will share the river’s waning water supply going forward: litigation, legislation or negotiation. Negotiations are the preferred option, state water commissioners agreed.
The federal government has told states they will need to reduce water use on the Colorado River by 2 million to 4 million acre-feet per year to address the unresolved water shortfall and the effects of climate change. State water commissioners agreed that the longer it takes to compromise and conserve the water needed to keep the river stable, the more likely reservoir levels will continue to plummet, leaving states with fewer and fewer options. Read more in the Nevada Current.
Date: December 20, 2023
After years of speculation, and promises, to bring a high-speed train to connect Southern Nevada to Southern California, the latest proposed rail system seems to be on track after receiving $3 billion in federal funding, the Nevada Current reports.
Nevada lawmakers recently announced the Brightline West project received $3 billion in funds, a not insignificant fraction of the estimated $12 billion price tag.
"For the nearly 50 years I’ve lived in Las Vegas, Nevadans have heard about the prospect of building a high-speed rail system between Las Vegas and Southern California," US Senator Jacky Rosen said in a press call. The project, she added, is "shovel ready" and expected to have a groundbreaking soon.
The funding comes as part of the Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail Grant, which was authorized by the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, commonly referred to as the bipartisan infrastructure bill.
Rosen said other money for the project will be "secured in the private sector" but no details have been released yet on the additional funding components. Read more.
Date: December 20, 2023
Four projects in Nevada are getting nearly $19 million total in federal funds to improve road safety, The Center Square reports.
US Senator Jacky Rosen's office announced the $18,957,436 total in grants from the US Department of Transportation. The four projects include traffic safety improvement in East Las Vegas ($8,377,460), the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada's regional safety plan ($1,508,000), East Sixth Street road improvements in Reno ($8,963,112), and the development of a safety action plan for the Shoshone Paiute Tribes ($108,864).
Funding for the Safe Streets and Roads for All grants comes from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Act. Nationally, USDOT is awarding 385 grants totaling $817 million.
Read more.
What: Just One Project – Pop Up & Give – Mobile Market
Date: Saturday, December 16, 2023
Time: 8:00 am – 11:00 am (until the food runs out, sometimes we get done sooner)
Where: Multiple Locations (select your location from the website link)
Volunteers help unload food pallets and distribute those food items to our drive through and walk-up clients.
Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring some water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate with their parents.
#VolunteerLikeABoss!
You can sign up online, if you would like to participate.
Date: November 16, 2023
NSPE-NV will partner with SWE-NV to host a luncheon meeting on Tuesday, November 28, at Lawry's the Prime Rib from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The meeting will feature a presentation on "Nevada Resort Association – Past, Present, and Future" by Valerie Valentine, the president and CEO of the Nevada Resort Association. Access in-person/virtual registration and payment information here.
Meet the Speaker
Valerie Valentine is the president and CEO of the Nevada Resort Association, a position she has held for more than a decade. The association represents and advocates for 75 resorts in Nevada's hotel/gaming industry. She is the former chief executive officer for Clark County, Nevada.
Valentine began her career as a consulting engineer in the private sector and is a registered professional engineer. Valentine's career includes serving as the city manager for the City of Las Vegas and as a senior vice president of Post, Buckley, Schuh & Jernigan, (PBSJ) a national consulting engineering firm (now known as Atkins). She also has the distinction of being the first chief engineer and general manager of the Clark County Regional Flood Control District.
Thanks to Our Sponsor!
Date: November 16, 2023
The Nevada Future City Competition is approaching in January! The competition engages with kids in grades 6-8 to help them experience engineering. Judges are needed to help score deliverables and volunteers are needed for competition that will take place on January 20. More information can be found here.
Please contact Brian.Kalina@swgas.com or Anthony.Fiti@snvfuturecity.org if you're interested in volunteering or have any questions.
Date: November 16, 2023
NSPE-NV is relaunching its support of The Just One Project's Pop Up & Give Mobile Market. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, November 18, at various locations from 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Volunteers help unload food pallets and distribute those food items to our drive through and walk-up clients.
If you would like to volunteer, you can sign up online. Please wear comfy closed-toed shoes and bring water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate.
Date: November 16, 2023
The Nevada PE Foundation supports STEM education in an effort to inspire the next generation of socially and environmentally responsible leaders. The foundation focuses on outreach to students in grades K-6 to provide hands-on activities in engineering design and testing through three activities, including a Pop Fly Catapult project. NSPE-NV members and educators can access information about the available activities and resources here.
Sichu Shrestha, Ph.D., P.E., recently provided third-grade students at Elise Wolff Elementary School the opportunity to learn engineering design techniques through the Pop Fly Catapult activity. The students built their catapult individually and at the end competed/ tested to see whose catapult could propel the ball the longest distance.
Date: November 16, 2023
The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors will hold a public workshop on December 6 (Las Vegas and Reno) and an interim board meeting on December 14. Access meeting information here.
Date: November 16, 2023
The US Department of Energy (DOE) recently announced a $1.3 billion commitment for three transmission lines crossing Nevada and five other states, according to a news release. This commitment, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will advance transformative projects aimed at adding 3.5 gigawatts (GW) of additional grid capacity throughout the US, equivalent to powering approximately 3 million homes, and creating more than 13,000 direct and indirect jobs. These projects seek to advance the Administration's climate agenda, strengthen grid resilience and reliability, and bring low-cost clean electricity to more families and businesses.
To ensure that transmission buildout is done in an informed and precise manner, DOE also released the final National Transmission Needs Study to provide insight into where the grid—and American communities—would benefit from increased transmission.
Nevada and Utah - Cross-Tie 500kV Transmission Line: The Cross-Tie is a proposed 214-mile,1500 MW transmission line connecting existing transmission systems in Utah and Nevada to increase transmission capacity, improve grid reliability and resilience, relieve congestion on other key transmission lines, and expand access to low-cost renewable energy across the region. The bidirectional nature of Cross-Tie will increase transfer capabilities in the West, unlocking increased access to renewable energy resources in the region. Construction is expected to start in Q1 of calendar year 2025. The Needs Study estimates that by 2030 the Mountain region will need nearly 2,300 gigawatt-miles GW-mi of new transmission to unlock the power sector emissions savings enabled by Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Cross-Tie will contribute 14% to this regional need. Read more.
Date: November 16, 2023
Public policy scholars published a 339-page paper to help state and federal regulators manage water for the Colorado River Basin, The Center Square reports.
The Colorado River provides drinking water for approximately 40 million people in Arizona, California, Nevada, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming, and Mexico. Its water also provides irrigation for approximately five million acres of farming, or 15% of the nation's crop production, and livestock, approximately 13%.
Three professors from the University of California-Riverside collaborated with two representatives from the Utah Rivers Council to develop a "hydro-economic model" to provide answers for critical questions regarding management of the water resource. The analysis shows impacts to cities, states, tribes, farmers, and wildlife conservation. It also suggests "out-of-the-box solutions that right now many stakeholders don’t even want to mention," Ariel Dinar, one of the authors, said in a media release from the university announcing the publication.
Increased water use due to population growth and reductions due to climate change are examined in the analysis and are the basis for alternative water policies.
"This knowledge provides an understanding of the magnitude of growing socioeconomic and climate pressures in the basin," the analysis states. "This is important because of the rising chorus of scientists, water managers and policymakers who suspect the Colorado River Basin is approaching a tipping point." Read more.
Date: November 16, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Date: September 25, 2023
NSPE-NV hosted a luncheon meeting on September 19 featuring a presentation on "Going Beyond Education in Traffic Safety" by Andrew Bennett, the director of the Clark County Office of Traffic Safety and the chairman of the Nevada Advisory Committee on Traffic Safety.
Prior to serving as a director with the county, Andrew Bennett has been working towards the goal of zero fatalities in Nevada for the last 14 years with several different traffic safety organizations, including the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, and Clark County School District.
Thanks to our sponsor!
Date: September 25, 2023
The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors has released the latest issue of The Nevada Connection to keep you up to date on board news and activities. The newsletter features a message from the new board chair Angelo Spata, P.E.
Upcoming Meeting
The board will hold an interim meeting on Thursday, October 12. Access the meeting information and Zoom link here.
Date: September 25, 2023
Las Vegas isn't just a hot spot for revelers. Thousands of businesses, particularly from California, have moved to the region over the past few decades, and the population is booming alongside other Southwestern cities, Business Insider reports.
All of that growth in a region plagued by extreme heat, drought, and a dwindling water supply raises tough questions for city and state officials who want to spur economic growth without draining the Colorado River dry. In one example of that challenge, Arizona's governor in June halted construction in areas around Phoenix, citing a lack of groundwater.
Yet officials in greater Las Vegas told Insider their city is well positioned for growth thanks to decades of water-conservation measures — the latest of which involves a new tool that evaluates the water use of companies interested in moving to the region or expanding operations.
"We realized that water didn't have a seat at the table when economic-development decisions were being made," Dave Johnson, the deputy general manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority, told Insider. "We needed to change that." Read more.
Date: September 25, 2023
STEM education in Nevada is getting a boost through a new undergraduate student training program. Nationally, elementary students, on average, only receive 17 minutes of science instruction each day. That's according to a 2018 study from the National Science Foundation. It's why the Nevada-based Desert Research Institute (DRI) launched a new program to boost STEM education. "We are currently short on teachers to fill the needs of the classrooms statewide," said DRI STEM Education Program Manager Emily McDonald-Williams.
Using a $1 million grant from the federal Department of Education, DRI is pairing University of Nevada, Reno and University of Nevada, Las Vegas students with elementary teachers to bring more science, technology, engineering, and math into classrooms.
"This program is really designed to help increase the confidence of the students who are majoring in education, so that when they are ready to enter a classroom, they feel more prepared," McDonald-Williams said.
The program will encourage learning at all levels by creating teams of undergraduate students and local teachers. Each team has one student majoring in elementary education, and another in a STEM field, like biology or environmental science. Read more of this KUNR Public Radio report.
Date: September 25, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
What: Just One Project – Pop Up & Give – Mobile Market
Date: Saturday, September 23, 2023
Time: 7:30 am – 10:30 am (until the food runs out, sometimes we get done sooner)
Where: Multiple Locations (select your location from the website link)
Volunteers help unload food pallets and distribute those food items to our drive through and walk-up clients.
Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring some water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate with their parents.
#VolunteerLikeABoss!
You can sign up online, if you would like to participate.
Date: August 18, 2023
NSPE-NV hosted a luncheon meeting on August 15 featuring a presentation on "What a PE Says with Their Signature and Stamp: A Resource for Professional Engineers" by Craig Sisco, P.E., F.NSPE.
The NSPE Committee on Policy and Advocacy released the "What a PE Says with Their Signature and Stamp" document earlier this year. The document provides a general awareness of the PE signature and stamp process and includes best practices and lessons learned for those considering developing or improving their own process.
Thanks to Our Sponsor!
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Date: August 18, 2023
The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors is holding a board meeting on Thursday, September 21. Access the meeting information and Zoom link here.
Date: August 18, 2023
Drought restrictions along the Colorado River will be relaxed after an exceptionally wet winter helped raise the levels of Lake Mead and Lake Powell, according to a report from the US Bureau of Reclamation.
A Tier 1 shortage will be in effect for 2024 — an improvement over Tier 2a restrictions currently in place, 8newsnow.com reports. The difference: Southern Nevada will gain the right to use another 4,000 acre-feet of water. That's the equivalent of about 1.3 billion gallons — enough to supply 8,000 to 12,000 more households.
Southern Nevada is so far ahead of the curve on conservation that the extra water probably won't be used anytime soon, information from the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) shows. Last year, Southern Nevada used 224,000 acre-feet, and is on pace to use 19% less than that for 2023 if current projections hold true.
"While shortage conditions improved slightly, Southern Nevada must remain focused on water conservation. Our community's conservation programs, policies and practices are successfully reducing water use and managing water demands," according to Bronson Mack, SNWA Outreach Manager.
Projections in the report show Lake Mead is expected to be at 1,064.78 feet in September — about a foot and a half higher than its current level (1,063.33 feet). Lake levels are expressed as the elevation of the surface above sea level. Read more.
Date: August 18, 2023
In northern Nevada, east of Reno, a mountainous desert unfolds like a pop-up book. Wild horses on hillsides stand still as toys. Green-grey sagebrush paints the sandy land, which is baking under the summer sun.
On a 10-acre slice of this desert, people are working to turn this sunshine into paychecks. As society phases out fossil fuels and builds huge new solar energy plants, this region is grabbing a share of that green gold rush by retraining workers for work that is spreading across the West.
At this training center for the Reno branch of the Laborers' International Union of North America, Francisco Valenzuela uses a wrench to secure brackets to a long steel tube on posts about four feet off the ground. What looks like the start of a giant erector set is the support structure common on large-scale solar farms. "The brackets, they hold the panels and we set it up," said Valenzuela.
A few years ago, Valenzuela did electrical work for a solar project not far from here – the 60-megawatt Turquoise Solar Farm. Now, he's gaining more skills so he can land more jobs. The 43-year-old is originally from Sonora, Mexico, but lives in Reno for trade jobs in northern Nevada. He has two kids in Las Vegas and visits when work is slow. "You stay busy the whole year working," he said. It's good pay, too, he added, with some companies paying $20 to $30 an hour, or more.
These days, clean energy infrastructure construction is booming and with that, so are solar industry jobs. Nevada has jumped to the forefront in retraining workers for jobs at large-scale solar plants, so much so that now, workers from other states are coming here for guidance.
Read more of this KUNR report.
Date: August 18, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
What: Just One Project – Pop Up & Give – Mobile Market
Date: Saturday, August 19, 2023
Time: 7:30 am – 10:30 am (until the food runs out, sometimes we get done sooner)
Where: Multiple Locations (select your location from the website link)
Volunteers help unload food pallets and distribute those food items to our drive through and walk-up clients
Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring some water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate with their parents.
#VolunteerLikeABoss!
You can sign up online, if you would like to participate.
Date: July 20, 2023
OpenAI's ChatGPT came on the scene in November 2022. This type of generative AI has made a noticeable impact in a brief period of time and other versions of chatbots have been released. This emerging technology is sparking discussions about what impact AI could have on the engineering workforce and in engineering practice.
In the latest issue of PE magazine, NSPE-NV member and UNLV educator David James, Ph.D., P.E., provides insight on generative AI and its current use in engineering education and perhaps in professional practice. He has tested out ChatGPT and Google's Bard, but is this new tech ready for primetime? Find out by accessing the full article here.
Date: July 20, 2023
A wet and cool start to 2023 helped Southern Nevada consume 25% less water from the drought-stricken Colorado River through the first five months of the year, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reports.
From January through May, the region's consumptive use from the river was just under 61,000 acre-feet of water, Warren Turkett, a natural resource analyst for the Colorado River Commission of Nevada, recently told commissioners.
That's down from nearly 82,000 acre-feet of water consumed during the same period last year, which was near the same amount the valley consumed in 2021 (84,489 acre-feet) and 2020 (80,885 acre-feet).
Turkett said that reduction is due to continued conservation efforts coupled with weather that was cooler and far wetter than usual. But whether the region can keep that pace up for the entire year remains to be seen, especially with the latest seasonal forecast showing conditions that are likely to be warmer and drier than normal through September.
"It will be telling to see what happens over the summer months because those are the biggest water use months," Turkett told commissioners. "The next few months … hopefully will be consistent with keeping that reduction." Read more.
Date: July 20, 2023
Nevada was recently named as one of the 10 best states in the country for infrastructure, 2news.com reports. The Silver State placed ninth in the CNBC rankings, ahead of a three-way tie between Colorado, Kansas, and Virginia.
The main reason for Nevada's ranking is the state's reliable power grid, according to CNBC, which says the average customer is without power for just 102 minutes per year. In discussing the ranking, CNBC said that 1% of bridges in the state are in poor condition, and 5% of roads. They also said that 92% of the state has broadband internet access.
States that ranked ahead of Nevada in infrastructure included South Carolina, Arizona, Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, Minnesota, Illinois, and Georgia.
Date: July 20, 2023
NSPE-NV and ASCE cohosted a luncheon on July 13, featuring a Clark County Public Works update. The presentation was conducted by Jimmy Floyd, P.E., manager of construction management.
Meet the Speaker
Jimmy Floyd, P.E., manages Clark County Public Works Construction Management Division. The division oversaw $690 million in current CIP projects and performs over 14,000 inspections on an annual basis on developer projects. He has worked in the construction industry for that past 27 years with experience as a contractor, inspector, structural engineer, designer, materials testing technician/project manager, materials lab manager, and construction manager at different times in his career. He has made it his career goal to provide quality service to industry partners, while at the same time ensuring quality materials are delivered on public projects.
Floyd holds two degrees from UNLV, one in construction management and the other in civil engineering. He is a license professional engineer, ACI Executive committee member, Nevada APWA president-elect, and volunteers with the Nevada Department of Wildlife.
Date: July 20, 2023
City of North Las Vegas
The City of North Las Vegas is looking for qualified candidates to serve in Senior Engineer and Engineering Technician positions.
Las Vegas Valley Water District
The Las Vegas Valley Water District is looking for qualified candidates to serve in Engineering Technician I and Civil Engineer, P.E., positions.
Date: July 20, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Date: June 23, 2023
NSPE-NV wants to thank everyone who attended the recent National Engineers Week Finale Banquet and made it a success! More than 230 gathered on Saturday, May 13, at the Orleans Hotel and Casino for the Hawaiian themed event. NSPE Director Thomas Headley, P.E., attended as our honored guest. Craig Bledsoe, P.E., from NSPE-AK, and his wife were also able to join us.
The event kicked off at 5:00 p.m. with the Order of the Engineer oath with 23 new inductees, followed by a cocktail hour and dinner. The night's festivities also featured a program to announce scholarships, awards, and door prizes. The fun didn't stop there—the DJ made sure the after party was entertaining while guests danced with hula hoops and beach balls.
We would like to thank all of the financial sponsors for the evening! And special thanks goes out to the planning committee for making this a great event of celebration and engagement. Access the event newsletter here.
NSPE-NV Award Winners
Date: June 23, 2023
NSPE-NV and ASCE cohosted a luncheon on June 14, featuring a presentation on Best Practices Guide for Quality Plan Submittals. The presentation was conducted by Jamie Fitzgerald, Jamie Harsh and Greg DeSart.
Jamie Fitzgerald
Greg DeSart
2023-2024 Chapter Officers
Dylan Yoro, Abhusan Achhami, Sichu Shrestha, Rosaura Gallagher, Suchan Lamichhane, Naik Banavathu, Trisha Sakaguchi, Jamie Harsh, and Christian Herrera
Meet the Speakers
Jamie Fitzgerald is a senior public works plans examiner at City of Henderson. He is a Las Vegas native with over 22 years at the City of Henderson, 18 of which have been in public works plan review. Fitzgerald currently supervises the civil plan review process in the Development Services Center and was responsible for developing and implementing the first fully electronic plan review and approval process in Southern Nevada. He has also worked with the Nevada licensing board on several projects, including the Electronic Submittal and Digital Signature Guide and the recently released Best Practices Guide.
Jamie Harsh is currently an engineering supervisor at Southwest Gas. Harsh has 11 years of professional experience in the fields of chemical and civil engineering. She earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering with a mathematics minor from Seattle University.
Harsh started her engineering career at TIMET, a titanium manufacturing plant, monitoring chemical processes and managing continuous improvement projects. She began her career with Southwest Gas in 2018 as an Engineer II. In her current role as supervisor, she oversees the evaluation, analysis, and replacement of natural gas facilities in the Las Vegas Valley.
Since founding GES in 1992, Greg DeSart has managed and performed geotechnical engineering, materials testing and inspection, and environmental services for countless projects throughout Nevada. Working with governmental entities, civil engineers, and private developers, he has succeeded over the past 31 years in building a strong reputation for providing personalized high-end services for GES' clients. He provides leadership for all company operations and projects, assuring high quality standards are followed with respect to technical performance, project schedules, and budgets.
Thanks to our Sponsor!
Date: June 23, 2023
The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors is holding a board meeting on Thursday, July 20.
Access the meeting information and Zoom link here.
Date: June 23, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Please contact Martin Jensen (MJensen@UniversalEngineering.com) or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Job
Deputy CEO RTC
Las Vegas, NV
Date: May 19, 2023
NSPE-NV held its monthly luncheon on Tuesday, May 16, featuring presentations by UNLV civil engineering students and recognition of the annual scholarship winners.
The Presentations
Tule Springs Diversion Trench
(UNLV Civil Engineering Department 1st Place Final Year Project)
Presented by: Seyedeh Aalaie, Michael Blume, Franquoise Duenas, and Cecia Ruiz-Hernandez
Tule Springs National Monument Gravel Road
(UNLV Civil Engineering Department 2nd Place Final Year Project and three-way tie for College Level Sustainability)
Presented by: Richard Kilgore and Elizabeth Paschal
Annual Scholarship Winners
NSPE-NV awarded $1,500 scholarships to UNLV engineering students Ricardo Borunda and Stacey Lai. Ricardo Borunda was able to attend the luncheon and receive recognition from Southern Nevada Chapter President Christian Herrera, P.E.
Thanks to our Sponsor!
Date: May 19, 2023
The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors is holding an interim board meeting on Thursday, June 8. Access the meeting information and Zoom link here.
Date: May 19, 2023
Nevada's mining industry is poised to be a key player in the energy segment, and the state's leading trade organization has tapped a familiar face as it looks for a permanent leader, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reports.
Dana Bennett has been named interim president of the Nevada Mining Association, after serving as president of the organization from 2014 to 2020. She succeeds Tyre Gray, who left the association in February to pursue other professional opportunities, according to NVMA.
Bennett said there isn't a set timeline for when her replacement will be chosen, and the main focus of the association is Assembly Bill 313, which would ban pit lakes formed by mines across the state.
"We are always interested in legislation and regulatory activity that achieves that delicate balance between economic opportunity for the state with environmental responsibility," she said. "One of the bills that we are concerned with and engaged in a working group with is Assembly Bill 313, which would require backfilling pit lakes."
Outside of looking at legislation, a growing interest around mining is how the industry will help fuel the transition to renewable energy. Read more.
Date: May 19, 2023
The interior of the Earth is hot, and it gets hotter with depth. Geothermal energy takes advantage of this ever-present heat that is transmitted through rock and then transformed into electricity. It is one of the most promising renewable energy sources with low to zero emissions of CO2 and other pollutants that, different than solar and wind, runs around the clock, 24/7.
Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer Jack Norbeck, of Fervo Energy, recently spoke at the Energy Solutions Forum hosted by the University of Nevada, Reno's Colleges of Science and Engineering, Nevada Today reports. Norbeck talked about the relevance of geothermal energy for today's world and about next-generation geothermal projects happening in Northern Nevada.
"Whereas solar only works when the sun is shining, and the wind only works when the wind is blowing, geothermal is constant and has a lot of valuable properties and attributes to keep the grid reliable and steady," Norbeck said. Read more.
Date: May 19, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Please contact Trisha Sakaguchi (Trisha.Sakaguchi@atkinsglobal.com), Christian Herrera (Christian.Herrera@swgas.com), Martin Jensen (MJensen@UniversalEngineering.com) or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Job
Mechanical Engineer, P.E.
Las Vegas, NV
Date: April 20, 2023
NSPE-NV held a luncheon meeting on April 18 featuring a presentation on "Say What? Five Key Communication Tools for Your Success" by Jason Gardner, the manager of organizational Change for Southwest Gas.
Meet the Presenter – Jason Gardner
Jason Gardner, CPTD, is the manager of organizational change for Southwest Gas, a natural gas transportation and distribution company with over 2300 employees across a three-state service territory. In this role, he strategizes and delivers expert organizational change management leadership and support for department-level and large-scale organizational change projects across the Southwest Gas enterprise. Gardner’s team focuses on addressing the people side of change projects (e.g., process, technology, organizational structure, and culture changes), and collaborates with groups and levels across the organization including project teams in integrating change management activities into their business and project plans.
Gardner participated in a two-year job rotation where he oversaw the organizational change activities for the largest transformation project in Southwest Gas' history: the Customer Information System conversion to SAP. The changes included providing enhanced customer self-service and delivering faster and more accurate information.
Gardner is one of the first Certified Professionals in Talent Development in Southern Nevada, achieving this certification in 2009. He is also a past-president of the local chapter of the Association for Talent Development (formerly ASTD).
Thanks to our Sponsor!
Date: April 20, 2023
Congratulations to the Nevada mathletes who will represent the state during the upcoming 2023 Raytheon Technologies MATHCOUNTS Competition finals that will take place May 14–15 in Orlando, Florida. Access more national competition information here.
The Nevada team includes the following student members and coach:
- Julian Kuang (7th grade) Davidson Academy-Reno, NV
- Liam Reddy (8th grade) Davidson Academy Online-Las Vegas, NV
- Max Tsai (6th grade) Davidson Academy Online-Las Vegas, NV
- Lucas Wu (8th grade) Davidson Academy-Reno, NV
- Darren Ripley (Coach) Davidson Academy-Reno, NV
And a special thank you goes out to our coordinators and volunteers!
- Jennifer Davis (Southern Nevada coordinator)
- Claire Kohatsu (Southern Nevada coordinator)
- Seena Drapala (Northern Nevada coordinator)
- Kenneth Albright (exam room proctor & Countdown Round announcer)
- Linda Carvolth (exam runner)
- Venu Kalakuntla (photographer)
- Molly Marks (UNLV event coordinator & UNLV student support)
- Brook Demitropoulos (head grader)
- Exam Graders: Jess Brown, Gari Lindsey, Julia Rabello, Mary Clyburn, Andrew Howard, Christian Livingston, Steve Cox, and Michael Feuerstein
- ASCE YMF – STEAM Activity Volunteers: Michael Feuerstein, Trent Hanson and Jessica Reyes
NSPE-NV supports the next generation of PEs through engagement in the MATHCOUNTS program. Each March, middle school students from across our state come together for the Nevada MATHCOUNTS Competition. These students are some of the most capable and hardworking young mathematicians in our state, and the top scoring students earn the prestigious honor of representing Nevada at the national level.
MATHCOUNTS Sporting Clays Tournament & Fundraiser
The MATHCOUNTS Sporting Clays Tournament & Fundraiser (a 50-clay shoot) will take place on Friday, May 5, at the Pro Gun Club located in Boulder City. Food and beverages will be provided by a taco food truck. Stay tuned for more event and registration details!
Date: April 20, 2023
This year's Engineers Week Finale Banquet will be held on Saturday, May 13 (starting at 6:00 p.m.) at the Orleans Hotel & Casino. The banquet will be followed by an afterparty. Stay tuned for more information on registration and sponsorships the NSPE-NV website.
The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors is holding a virtual public meeting today (Thursday, April 20). Access the meeting agenda here.
Date: April 20, 2023
Nevada has secured more than $63.5 million in federal funding to upgrade drinking water infrastructure around the state, according to a News 3 report.
The funding comes from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund established by the Environmental Protection Agency, according to US Representative Dina Titus. "I supported and voted for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law because of investments like this one which will help ensure access to safe, clean drinking water for my constituents and communities across Nevada," Titus said in a statement.
Nevada is one of several states to receive funding via the EPA's fund. The agency found in its seventh infrastructure needs survey and assessment that the 20-year national need for states is estimated at $625 billion.
Date: April 20, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
NSPE-NV is looking for volunteers for the MATHCOUNTS Chapter Competition on Saturday, March 25. Learn more.
The Just One Project is seeking volunteers for its latest Pop Up & Give Mobile Market on Saturday, March 25, at various locations from 7:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
If you would like to participate in this volunteer opportunity, you can sign up online. Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate.
NSPE-NV will hold an in-person luncheon meeting on Tuesday, March 21 (11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) featuring a presentation on ethics. Steve Hiner, P.E., who works for the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors as a compliance investigator is the featured speaker. Hiner will discuss the NSPE Code of Ethics, the public's perception of engineers, and Nevada engineering statutes and regulations. A virtual attendance option is available (must register by March 20 at 5:00 p.m.). Access meeting information and registration here.
Meet the Presenter – Steve Hiner, P.E.
Steve Hiner, P.E., is a compliance investigator for the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors and is the owner of L.S. Hiner Consulting PLLC.
Hiner previously worked for Rinker Materials, a national manufacturer of precast concrete pipe and box culverts, for over 41 years. Considered an expert in his field, he has held a number of positions at Rinker including sales engineer, plant manager, corporate engineer and director of product development.
Prior to joining Rinker Materials, he was a technical services engineer and materials engineer for Martin Marietta Cement in the Washington, DC-Baltimore area. He graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 1976 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and is also a licensed engineer in Texas.
Thanks to our Sponsor!
The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors will hold public workshops in Reno and Las Vegas on Monday, March 27 (12:00 p.m.) to receive comments pursuant to Executive Order 2023-003. Access the meeting agenda and information here.
On January 12, Governor Joe Lombardo issued Executive Order 2023-003 directing boards to review regulations under their purview and identify at least 10 regulations for removal and also propose amendments that would improve or clarify any existing regulations and consider amendments that would speed the licensing process.
The purpose of this workshop is to do the following:
- Receive public comment on the board's recommendations as set out in Attachments A and B; and
- Identify any other regulatory changes that workshop participants feel are worthy of consideration by the board.
Public Workshop Locations
- 1755 E Plumb Lane, Suite 258, Reno, NV 89502
- 241 W Charleston Boulevard, Suite 130, Las Vegas, NV 89702
Date: March 17, 2023
This year's Engineers Week Finale Banquet will be held on Saturday, May 13 (starting at 6:00 p.m.) at the Orleans Hotel & Casino. The banquet will be followed by an afterparty. Stay tuned for more information on registration and sponsorships the NSPE-NV website.
Date: March 17, 2023
The state MATHCOUNTS competition will take place on Saturday, March 25, at the UNLV School of Engineering (SEB) from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Thank you in advance to our volunteers! The winning Nevada team will participate in the national MATHCOUNTS competition May 14-15 in Orlando, Florida.
Coming Soon: MATHCOUNTS Sporting Clays Tournament & Fundraiser
The MATHCOUNTS Sporting Clays Tournament & Fundraiser (a 50-clay shoot) will take place on Friday, May 5, at the Pro Gun Club located in Boulder City. Food and beverages will be provided by a taco food truck. Stay tuned for more event and registration details!
Date: March 17, 2023
Amid the national transition to more renewable sources of energy, Governor Joe Lombardo's economic development office has released an updated five-year strategic plan focused on expanding the state's electric vehicle production, technological innovation, and new infrastructure.
The plan is aimed at growing the state's economy, including a push to make Nevada the "lithium capital of North America," funding for new industrial parks (such as the Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center) and expanding the state's broadband and 5G cell network infrastructure, The Nevada Independent reports.
"Nevada is positioned to be ground zero for the energy transition and to play a key role in securing the energy independence and security of the United States," the report authors wrote.
The new economic strategy — titled "Realizing Nevada's Electric, Innovative and Connected Future" and drafted by staff at the SRI International Center for Innovation Strategy and Policy — aligns with goals Lombardo shared during his January State of the State address to make Nevada "the most entrepreneurial-friendly state in the nation" and restore Nevada's reputation as a "pro-business, pro-development state." Read more.
Date: March 17, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Date: February 15, 2023
NSPE-NV will hold an in-person luncheon meeting on Tuesday, February 21 (11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) featuring a presentation by Adriana Ventimiglia to provide an update on the Horizon Lateral project in the Las Vegas Valley. A virtual attendance option is available (must register by February 17). Access meeting information and registration here.
Meet the Presenter – Adriana Ventimiglia
Adriana Ventimiglia, a senior program engineer with the Southern Nevada Water Authority, has more than 20 years of professional civil engineering experience in engineering design, construction management, project permitting, and inter-agency coordination for municipal and private entities. Ventimiglia is currently leading the SNWA’s engineering program for the Horizon Lateral, a large-diameter transmission pipeline that will increase service reliability to the southern portion of the Las Vegas Valley.
Thanks to our Sponsor!
Date: February 15, 2023
The SNV Region 2023 Future City Engineering Competition was held at the College of Southern Nevada on January 21. NSPE-NV, ASCE, and the Las Vegas Valley Water District (LVVWD) helped to coordinate more than 35 volunteers from engineering firms, local entities, and engineering personnel in the Las Vegas Valley to offer over 300 hours of volunteer service to prepare and hold the competition. This was the first in-person event since 2019.
Over 120 students from different middle schools, which included Hyde Park, Las Vegas Day School, Saville, and Faiss, participated in the competition. Hyde Park brought over 95 students to the competition and pulled off a last round upset to take the first-place prize. Their winning team, Shahar Savers, are heading to Washington, DC, for the Finals Competition that will take place during this year’s Engineers Week celebration.
Thanks a million to all those who donated precious time from their personal schedules to help these youth extend their knowledge of the engineering design process and project management skills!
Date: February 15, 2023
This year's Engineers Week Finale Banquet will be held on Saturday, May 13 (starting at 6:00 p.m.) at the Orleans Hotel & Casino. The banquet will be followed by an afterparty. Stay tuned for more information on the NSPE-NV website.
Date: February 15, 2023
Call for MATHCOUNTS Graders!
NSPE-NV needs 20 volunteers for exam grading on Saturday, March 25, at the UNLV School of Engineering (SEB) from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Not to fear...no experience is necessary and answer keys will be provided!
Volunteers will receive a t-shirt and there will be plenty of snacks and fun for all! Please send an RSVP to Brook.Demitropoulos@Jacobs.com to volunteer.
Save the Date: MATHCOUNTS Sporting Clays Tournament & Fundraiser
The MATHCOUNTS Sporting Clays Tournament & Fundraiser (a 50-clay shoot) will take place on Friday, May 5, at the Pro Gun Club located in Boulder City. Food and beverages will be provided by a taco food truck. Stay tuned for more event and registration details!
Date: February 15, 2023
The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors has meetings scheduled on Wednesday, March 8 (Professional Association Liaison Committee) and on Thursday, March 9 (board meeting). Access meeting and virtual attendance information here.
Date: February 15, 2023
A Nevada business has received a conditional loan commitment of $2 billion from the Department of Energy to expand its battery recycling facility, The Center Square reports.
Carson City-based Redwood Materials takes batteries from mobile phones, laptops, and other electronic waste and remanufactures them into the components for electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
"Redwood will draw upon this milestone-based financing in tranches that support our phased construction and allows us to unlock funding as we accelerate the construction and expansion of our first battery materials campus," said Redwood Materials on its website.
While he said in the State of the Union that the US would need oil and gas for the next 10 years, President Biden has been pushing for EVs and the domestic manufacturing of components needed for EVs and batteries.
Approximately 3,500 construction jobs are expected for McCarran's Redwood Materials expansion project. One thousand six hundred full-time jobs will be created for areas including labor, technical staff, and management. Read more.
Date: February 15, 2023
A newly launched interdisciplinary project headed up by University of Nevada, Reno's College of Engineering aims to collaborate with local organizations, and eventually citizen scientists, to study environmental conditions. Data gathered through the project called Elements: Innovating for Edge-to-Edge Climate Services can help communities better handle wildfires and other natural hazards, Nevada Today reports.
Computer Science & Engineering Professor Sergiu Dascalu leads the project, which involves installing temperature, snow and soil sensors in populated and wildland areas in the Tahoe Basin. The sensors will connect to new secure gateways on the existing Nevada System of Higher Education NevadaNet data network and in partnership with the Nevada Seismological Laboratory's science network and regional ALERTWildfire fire camera system.
Dascalu and his interdisciplinary team of engineers and environmental scientists will build a new, trusted technology platform for signing up sensors, transferring the data and for visualizing and analyzing the data.
The whole system will then be tested on a new Nevada weather "edge-to-edge" platform, or NevWx, which will be developed as part of the project. "Edge to edge" refers to the continuum of data collection — from the gathering of information to the data processing to the distribution to the public. Read more.
Date: February 15, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Please contact Trisha Sakaguchi (Trisha.Sakaguchi@atkinsglobal.com), Christian Herrera (Christian.Herrera@swgas.com), Martin Jensen (MJensen@UniversalEngineering.com) or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Electrical Engineer, P.E.
Las Vegas, NV
Senior Maintenance Engineer
Las Vegas, NV
Date: January 20, 2023
NSPE-NV Engineers Week Banquet
This year's Engineers Week Finale Banquet will be held on Saturday, February 25 (starting at 6:00 p.m.) at the Orleans Hotel & Casino. The banquet will be followed by an afterparty. The registration deadline is Friday, February 10. Access banquet information and the registration form on the NSPE-NV website.
Order of the Engineer Ceremony
Please join us for the Engineers Week Order of the Engineer Ceremony on Saturday, February 25 at 5:00 p.m. The last day for registration is Friday, February 10.
This is a separate event from the Engineers Week Finale Banquet and participation in the banquet is not required to join the Order of the Engineer Ceremony.
The Order of the Engineer was initiated in the US to foster a spirit of pride and responsibility in the engineering profession, to bridge the gap between training and experience, and to present to the public a visible symbol identifying the engineer. The Order is not a membership organization; there are never any meetings to attend or recurring dues to pay. Instead, the Order fosters a unity of purpose and the honoring of one’s pledge to the engineering profession.
Date: January 20, 2023
NSPE-NV held a luncheon meeting on Tuesday, January 17, featuring a presentation on Multi-Object Projects in the Tijuana River Valley by Mark Seits, P.E., a certified floodplain manager and vice president at HDR Inc.
Meet the Presenter – Mark Seits, P.E.
Mark Seits is a vice president at HDR Inc., and has more than 41 years of experience exclusively in flood control and water resources engineering, planning, and design. His background includes extensive FEMA floodplain processing assignments, levee evaluation and certification, scour analyses and erosion control, hydraulic analyses of bridges and roadways, retention/detention basin design, flood damage reduction feasibility studies, water supply/irrigation studies, and storm drain, channel and energy dissipating structure designs. Seits is a certified floodplain manager and is an expert on NFIP regulations and FEMA guidelines.
Thanks to our Sponsor! Floodplain Management Association (FMA)
Date: January 20, 2023
Get the latest Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors news in the January 2023 issue of the Nevada Connection. Access the issue here.
Upcoming Meetings
The licensing board has scheduled committee meetings on Monday, January 23 (PLS standards of practice) and Tuesday, January 31(legislative). Access meeting and virtual attendance information here.
Date: January 20, 2023
The Nevada Transportation Board of Directors has approved multiple highway projects that will create and collectively support 413 jobs for a year, according to a news3lv.com report.
According to the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), the upcoming construction projects will provide an improved transportation system to keep Nevada safe and connected.
Some approved projects include upgrading concrete barrier rails, improving aging roadside drainage, and installing landscape and aesthetics and other improvements on Interstate 80 from the Nevada/California border to western McCarran Boulevard in Washoe County.
Other approved agreements will help support construction engineering services for numerous highway improvements, including southbound truck climbing lanes and median widening on Interstate 15 between Speedway Boulevard and the US 93 Garnet interchange in Clark County, NDOT says. Read more.
Date: January 20, 2023
The USDA will make available $300 million for the state of Nevada to invest in renewable energy for rural areas. The funding will include $250 million from the Inflation Reduction Act, according to a kolotv.com report.
"The Inflation Reduction Act is a monumental opportunity for making energy investments in rural Nevada," USDA Rural Development Nevada State Director Lucas Ingvoldstad said.
"Climate-smart investments are priorities for the Biden-Harris Administration and USDA Rural Development. We are ready to bring this historic funding to the Silver State to further build this growing industry and to create jobs," he continued.
The USDA is now seeking applications for the fiscal year 2023. Changes will include an increase in the maximum Federal grant share from 25% to 40% of total project cost and an increase of maximum grant amounts from $250,000 to $500,000 for energy efficiency projects and an increase from $500,000 to $1,000,000 for renewable energy systems. Read more.
Date: January 20, 2023
MATHCOUNTS Chapter Competition
NSPE-NV needs 20 volunteers to grade exams for the upcoming MATHCOUNTS Chapter Competition on Saturday, February 11. No need to fear…no experience is necessary and answer keys will be provided. The competition will take place at the UNLV School of Engineering from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Volunteers will be provided a t-shirt and there will be snacks and fun for all. Please contact Brook.Demitropoulos@Jacobs.com if you’re interested in volunteering.
MATHCOUNTS Sporting Clays Tournament & Fundraiser
The MATHCOUNTS Sporting Clays Tournament & Fundraiser (a 50-clay shoot) will take place on Friday, May 5, at the Pro Gun Club located in Boulder City starting at 10:00 a.m. Food and beverages will be provided by a taco food truck. Stay tuned for more event and registration details!
Date: January 20, 2023
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Date: December 22, 2022
MATHCOUNTS Chapter Competition
NSPE-NV needs 20 volunteers to grade exams for the upcoming MATHCOUNTS Chapter Competition on Saturday, February 11. No need to fear…no experience is necessary and answer keys will be provided. The competition will take place at the UNLV School of Engineering from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Volunteers will be provided a t-shirt and there will be snacks and fun for all. Please contact Brook.Demitropoulos@Jacobs.com if you're interested in volunteering.
MATHCOUNTS Sporting Clays Tournament & Fundraiser
The MATHCOUNTS Sporting Clays Tournament & Fundraiser (a 50-clay shoot) will take place on Friday, May 5, at the Pro Gun Club located in Boulder City starting at 10:00 a.m. Food and beverages will be provided by a taco food truck. Stay tuned for more event and registration details!
Date: December 22, 2022
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Please contact Trisha Sakaguchi (Trisha.Sakaguchi@atkinsglobal.com), Christian Herrera (Christian.Herrera@swgas.com), Martin Jensen (MJensen@UniversalEngineering.com) or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
Date: December 22, 2022
The Biden Administration recently updated state and territory fact sheets that highlight the nationwide impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the largest long-term investment infrastructure and competitiveness in nearly a century. To date, nearly $1.7 billion in funding has been announced and is headed to Nevada with over 70 specific projects identified for funding. Access information about Nevada projects here.
Date: December 22, 2022
Leaders of the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) launched a year-long celebration to mark 30 years of providing transit service to southern Nevadans, keeping the community connected to jobs, schools, medical appointments, entertainment and more.
At a December 12 press conference, hosted at the RTC's Bonneville Transit Center, officials recognized several drivers and mechanics who have kept the community moving for nearly three decades. The RTC acknowledged the drivers, mechanics, and transit service staff with custom bus stop plaques to promote their relentless pursuit of serving our community. Additionally, the RTC unveiled a commemorative bus wrap to mark the occasion, according to a Mass Transit report.
The RTC will continue to celebrate the past, present, and future of driving southern Nevada forward with monthly initiatives focused on keeping the community connected, starting with a service expansion in late January to increase the reliability of transit for riders. Throughout 2023, the RTC will highlight sustainability, equity, infrastructure, entertainment, safety and more. Read more.
Date: December 22, 2022
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors has scheduled a meeting on Thursday, January 19. The public outreach committee will also hold a meeting on Thursday, January 12. Access meeting and virtual attendance information here.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Civil Engineer P.E.
Las Vegas, NV
Transportation Designer
Las Vegas, NV
Date: November 16, 2022
NSPE-NV members gathered for a luncheon meeting on Tuesday, November 15, to learn about water resource challenges in the region and conservation efforts from J.C. Davis, manager of the Southern Nevada Water Authority's Enterprise Conservation division.
Meet the Presenter—J.C. Davis
J.C. Davis manages the Southern Nevada Water Authority's Enterprise Conservation division. Davis has more than 25 years of experience as an analyst and communications professional. During his tenure with Las Vegas' regional water agency, he has developed and implemented numerous engagement programs and policies related to water conservation, water resource development, environmental management, water quality protection, rate structures, and infrastructure reinvestment. Davis is a longtime member of the American Water Works Association and served on the organization's Public Affairs Council. He earned degrees in journalism and management from San Diego State University.
Thanks to Our Sponsor!
Date: November 16, 2022
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors has scheduled a meeting on Thursday, November 17.
Access the meeting and virtual attendance information here.
Date: November 16, 2022
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Please contact Trisha Sakaguchi (Trisha.Sakaguchi@atkinsglobal.com), Christian Herrera (Christian.Herrera@swgas.com), Martin Jensen (MJensen@UniversalEngineering.com) or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
Date: November 16, 2022
New battery manufacturing facilities are coming to Nevada and will receive more than $100 million dollars of federal funding, a move meant to fulfill the Biden Administration's commitment to ensure that half of all new vehicle sales by 2030 are electric and to transition to a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.
Two Nevada companies specializing in mineral processing and extraction were awarded the funds as part of $2.8 billion in grants distributed by the US Department of Energy, the Nevada Current reports. A total of 20 manufacturing and processing companies were funded across 12 states.
One company, the American Battery Technology Company, plans to use the funding to construct a large-scale facility in Tonopah that would demonstrate a novel process for manufacturing battery grade lithium from unconventional landscapes. The company said the facility will show that their technique has a "low-cost and low-environmental impact process for manufacturing lithium products."
The second company that will receive funding is a project in Fernley by Lilac Solutions, which plans to demonstrate a new extraction technique that could make it more commercially viable to pull lithium from domestic underground deposits of brine water and ore. Read more.
Date: November 16, 2022
The Bureau of Land Management Pahrump Field Office is seeking public comments on the proposed Copper Rays Solar Project in Nye County, Nevada, according to a news release.
The 45-day scoping comment period opened on November 14 and will close on December 29.
The Copper Rays Solar Project would consist of the construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning of photovoltaic solar modules and associated facilities necessary to generate up to 700 megawatts of electricity on 5,127 acres of public land southeast of Pahrump, Nevada. The expected life of the project is 30 years. The public land for the proposed project area is southeast of Pahrump, approximately 40 miles west of Las Vegas, Nevada, and located adjacent and to the south of State Route 160. Project construction would take six years over multiple phases.
The BLM will hold two virtual scoping meetings for the Copper Rays Solar Project on December 6 and December 7 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (PT). Access more information on the project and the meetings registration here.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Sr. Manager, Quality Operations and Engineering
Sparks, NV
Welding Process Engineer
Carson City, NV
The Just One Project is seeking volunteers for its latest Pop Up & Give Mobile Market on Saturday, October 22, at various locations from 7:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
If you would like to participate in this volunteer opportunity, you can sign up online. Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate.
Date: October 20, 2022
NSPE-NV held a luncheon meeting on Tuesday, October 18, featuring a presentation on the I-15 Tropicana project. Lynnette Russell, P.E., assistant chief of project management for the Nevada Department of Transportation, and Chris Koenig with the Kiewet Corporation.
Located in the heart of the resort corridor, the Tropicana Avenue-Interstate 15 interchange serves as a gateway to the Las Vegas Strip. The combination of new resorts and professional sports has attracted more visitors to the city, drawing as many as 300,000 visitors on major holiday weekends, according to the NDOT. The widening of the Tropicana interchange will add capacity, improve accessibility to the strip, and allow for the future widening of I-15 as the population continues to grow. Learn more.
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Meet the Presenters—Lynnette Russell and Chris Koenig
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During her 30-year career, Lynnette Russell has been involved in the design and construction of several multi-million dollar heavy civil projects as well as iconic landmark projects across the southwestern United States. She also serves on the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. In her current role, Russell is the assistant chief of project management for NDOT and the project manager on the I-15 Tropicana project.
Russell holds bachelor's degrees in mechanical engineering and accounting from California State University, Chico, and a master's degree in organizational leadership from Regis University.
Chris Koenig has been employed with Kiewit for his entire professional career, 34 years. He is one of the company's most seasoned managers and has led a wide variety of multi-million dollar heavy civil projects across the southwestern United States. Koenig holds a bachelor's degree in construction management from the University of Nebraska.
Date: October 20, 2022
NSPE-NV members participated in STEAM outreach activities during the Summerlin Festival of Arts at The Lawn at Downtown Summerlin, October 8-9. The festival celebrated its 26th year.
NSPE-NV wants to give a special thanks to the awesome volunteers that helped out at the booth with the fun hands-on engineering activities of Hoop Glider and Pop Fly Catapults.
- Alma Al Fawal (Atkins)
- Alyssa Fitzpatrick (UNLV Tech Trekker)
- Brook Demitropoulos (Jacobs)
- David DeValve (LR Nelson Consulting Engineers)
- Debra Yamachika (Clark County Regional Flood Control District)
- Donna Rouchani (UNLV Tech Trekker)
- Ganesh Kadam (PMCM Consulting)
- Jessica Reyes (Kimley-Horn)
- John Case (Retired Engineer)
- Mahmoud El Hafiz – (Jacobs)
- Michael Feuerstein (GCW)
- Priscilla (High School Student)
- Randy Moreno (UNLV Tech Trekker)
- Ty (High School Students)
- Yanai Avila (UNLV Tech Trekker)
- Yareni Avila (UNLV Tech Trekker)
The Just One Project is seeking volunteers for its latest Pop Up & Give Mobile Market on Saturday, October 22, at various locations from 7:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
If you would like to participate in this volunteer opportunity, you can sign up online. Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate.
Date: October 20, 2022
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors has scheduled a meeting on Thursday, November 17.
Access meeting information here.
Date: October 20, 2022
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the Southern Nevada chapter level and secretary for the state society/foundation boards.
Please contact Trisha Sakaguchi (Trisha.Sakaguchi@atkinsglobal.com), Christian Herrera (Christian.Herrera@swgas.com), Martin Jensen (MJensen@UniversalEngineering.com), or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Electrical Engineer, P.E.
Las Vegas, NV
Transportation Designer
Las Vegas, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: September 23, 2022
NSPE-NV is seeking individuals to serve as vice president at the state chapter level and for the state foundation.
Please contact Trisha Sakaguchi (Trisha.Sakaguchi@atkinsglobal.com), Christian Herrera (Christian.Herrera@swgas.com), or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
Date: September 23, 2022
Governor Steve Sisolak recently appointed Asheesh S. Bhalla to serve as the first Nevada State Infrastructure Bank executive director. He began serving in this role on September 19.
Bhalla is a state prosecutor and former corporate defense attorney and previously served as the deputy attorney general for the Office of the Nevada Attorney General. He provided counsel to Nevada state agencies including the Cannabis Compliance Board, State Environmental Commission, Nevada Athletic Commission, and the Real Estate Commission.
During Sisolak's State of the State speech in February, he promised to fund the previously unfunded State Infrastructure Bank with an initial $75 million. In July, the bank started accepting applications for qualified infrastructure projects, including affordable housing, education, and other infrastructure projects.
Infrastructure Investments Website
Governor Sisolak officially launched a website highlighting infrastructure investments coming to Nevada through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, NevadaBuilds.com.
The website highlights money Nevada is investing into infrastructure projects from transportation to clean energy to high-speed internet access and the funding Nevada is intending on applying for future projects.
Date: September 23, 2022
NSPE-NV held a luncheon meeting on Tuesday, September 20, featuring Steve Hiner, P.E., who works for the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors as a compliance investigator. During the meeting, Hiner discussed the NSPE Code of Ethics, the public's perception of engineers, and Nevada engineering statutes and regulation.
Meet the Presenter—Steven Hiner, P.E.
Steve Hiner, P.E., is a compliance investigator for the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors and is the owner of L.S. Hiner Consulting PLLC.
Hiner previously worked for Rinker Materials, a national manufacturer of precast concrete pipe and box culverts, for over 41 years. Considered an expert in his field, he has held a number of positions at Rinker including sales engineer, plant manager, corporate engineer and director of product development.
Prior to joining Rinker Materials, he was a technical services engineer and materials engineer for Martin Marietta Cement in the Washington, DC-Baltimore area. He
graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 1976 with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and is also a licensed engineer in Texas.
Date: September 23, 2022
The Just One Project is seeking volunteers for its latest Pop Up & Give Mobile Market on Saturday, September 24, at various locations from 7:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
If you would like to participate in this volunteer opportunity, you can sign up online. Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate.
Date: September 23, 2022
NSPE-NV Southern Nevada Chapter donates to local engineering scholarships and STEAM outreach in local schools. With your support and generous donation of $10, we can ensure the continuation of making these opportunities possible for our local students and engineering community members.
A donation is optional, but would be greatly appreciated! Click here to donate. Please feel free to contact us with any questions via email.
Date: September 23, 2022
Date: August 17, 2022
Governor Steve Sisolak announced that Nevada will host the first ever Infrastructure Summit on Friday, September 30, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The daylong forum will allow community partners, stakeholders, and state and federal agencies to learn about the historic federal infrastructure investments coming to Nevada
"I am committed to using these once-in-a-generation infrastructure investments to rebuild our highways, roads, and bridges, connect our communities, upgrade our water infrastructure, improve sustainable transportation, and create thousands of good paying jobs for hard working Nevadans," said Governor Sisolak in a news release. "I look forward to coming together to hear how we can continue to work together on behalf of Nevadans."
The event will kick off with a welcome session, followed by informative breakout sessions. Attendees will be provided lunch and hear from a keynote speaker, followed by a robust panel discussion. More details on speakers and sessions will come in the following weeks.
Date: August 17, 2022
On August 16, NSPE-NV held a luncheon meeting featuring Jed Wheeler, P.E., to provide a presentation on the first sanitary sewer slip-line project in North Las Vegas.
Meet the Presenter—Jed Wheeler, P.E.
Jed Wheeler is a Southern Nevada native. He lives in Logandale just north of Las Vegas. He graduated from UNLV with a construction management degree. He worked for a local heavy-highway contractor for 18 years and is now working with Horrocks Engineers in their construction management department. He's married with four kids ages 7 to 15. Away from work, he enjoys wakeboarding, surfing, skiing, four-wheeling, all sports, and restoring old trucks.
Thanks to Our Sponsor!
The Just One Project is seeking volunteers for its latest Pop Up & Give Mobile Market on Saturday, August 20, at various locations from 7:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
If you would like to participate in this volunteer opportunity, you can sign up online. Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate.
Date: August 17, 2022
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors will hold a meeting on Thursday, September 15, at 8:30 a.m. Access more information here.
Date: August 17, 2022
US Senator Jacky Rosen is a champion for investing in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, workforce training, and jobs of the future. In 2019, her bipartisan Building Blocks of STEM Act was signed into law to increase the participation of young girls in computer science and enhance support for early childhood STEM education. She is also the co-founder and co-chair of the first ever bipartisan Women in STEM Caucus in the Senate.
Every month, Rosen's office highlights an outstanding Nevada woman in STEM because she is committed to promoting positive female role models who will inspire young women and girls everywhere about pursuing STEM opportunities.
Date: July 20, 2022
2022-2023 Nevada State Board Officers
- Martin Jensen - State President
- Rosaura Gallagher - State President Elect/National Delegate
- Rob Aytes - State Vice President Auditor
- Michael Ross - State Treasurer
- Valerie Flock - State Secretary
- Bob Thomsen - State Past President
2022-2023 Southern Nevada Chapter Board Officers
- Christian Herrera - Chapter President
- VACANT - Chapter Vice President and/or 2023 E-Week Chair
- Naik Banavathu – Treasurer
- Gari Lindsey – Secretary
- Rosaura Gallagher - Director of Website/Social Media
- VACANT - Director of Programming
- VACANT - Director of Membership/Student Liaison
- Trisha Sakaguchi - Chapter Past President
Are you interested in becoming a Board Member for the Nevada Society of Professional Engineers?
NSPE-NV is looking for nominations for vacant positions. Please contact Trisha Sakaguchi (Trisha.Sakaguchi@atkinsglobal.com) or Bob Thomsen (Bob.Thomsen@gesnevada.com) if you are interested.
Date: July 20, 2022
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors will hold a meeting on Friday, July 21, at 10:30 a.m. Access the agenda here. The meeting can be attended virtually or by dialing into the meeting: +1 669 900 6833, Meeting ID: 8286438008
Date: July 20, 2022
On July 19, NSPE-NV partnered with ASCE to hold a luncheon meeting featuring David Swallow, P.E., F.ASCE, the Deputy CEO for the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC). Swallow provided a presentation on the commission's projects and initiatives to improve mobility within the region.
The RTC performs many transportation activities within the Southern Nevada region. As the Metropolitan Planning Organization for Southern Nevada, the commission is helping to create sustainable communities. The RTC supports all types of transportation, including walking, biking, and transit. These alternative types of travel are key to reducing congestion in the Las Vegas Valley.
Meet the Presenter—David Swallow, P.E., F.ASCE
David Swallow is a Deputy CEO for the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada, serving the Las Vegas metropolitan area and surrounding communities. In this role, he oversees the planning, engineering, and funding programs for the region's transportation infrastructure, development of new transit facilities and systems, operation of the public bike share system, implementation and support of new technologies, and coordination of roadway and freeway operations through the region's traffic management center.
Swallow is a licensed professional engineer with over 25 years of transportation related experience and has worked with the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada since 2001. He earned bachelor's and master's degrees in civil engineering from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and a fellow of the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Thanks to Our Sponsor! Wood Rodgers
Date: July 20, 2022
The Just One Project is seeking volunteers for its latest Pop Up & Give Mobile Market on Saturday, July 23, in 14 locations for 7:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. time slots.
If you would like to participate in this volunteer opportunity, you can sign up online. Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate.
Volunteer Locations
Brinley Middle School (2480 Maverick Street, Las Vegas, NV 89108)
Canyon Springs High School (350 E Alexander Road, Las Vegas, NV 89032)
Cimarron Memorial High School (2301 N Tenaya, Las Vegas, NV 89128)
Cortney Junior High School (5301 E Hacienda, Las Vegas, NV 89122)
Cristo Rey St. Viator (2880 N Van Der Meer Street, Las Vegas, NV 89030)
Doolittle Community Center (1950 N J Street, Las Vegas, NV 89106)
Hyde Park Middle School (900 Hinson Street, Las Vegas, NV 89107)
JD Smith Middle School (1880 E Stanley Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89030)
Kenny Guinn Middle School (4150 S Torrey Pines, Las Vegas, NV 89103)
Monaco Middle School (870 N Lamont Street, Las Vegas, NV 89115)
Spring Valley High School (3750 S Buffalo Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89147)
Date: June 16, 2022
Please join your fellow NSPE-NV members for this month's luncheon meeting highlighting the Nevada Department of Transportation's current and future projects on Tuesday, June 21. Jeff Lerud, P.E., NDOT's deputy director for operations & maintenance, will serve as the presenter.
The meeting will take place at the Lawry's The Prime Rib (4043 Howard Hughes Parkway, Las Vegas, NV 89169), but individuals can join us virtually from 11:50 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Access the registration form here.
In-person registrations submitted after June 17 will be charged an additional $5 fee. Virtual attendees will receive a calendar invite (with the meeting link included) when payment is received. All virtual registrations are due on June 20 by 5:00 p.m. No late virtual registrations will be accepted.
Meet the Presenter—Jeff Lerud, P.E.
Jeff Lerud, P.E., is the deputy director for operations & maintenance at the Nevada Department of Transportation. He graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno, in 1993 with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering. He is a licensed professional engineer and a certified public manager.
Lerud started his career at the NVDOT in 1995 where he worked in the Roadway Design, Traffic Operations, and Project Management Divisions before joining the executive leadership team in October 2020. He joined the executive leadership team as the assistant director of engineering before taking on his current role as deputy director in May 2021. In his spare time, Jeff enjoys the outdoors and likes to travel, golf, and jog with his bride.
Date: June 16, 2022
The Southern Nevada NSPE Chapter has two board member openings for PEs and EITs who are seeking to advance their career and leadership skills! Please send a message to indicate your interest here.
Date: June 16, 2022
The Just One Project will be hosting its latest Pop Up & Give Mobile Market on Saturday, June 25, in multiple locations from 7:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
If you would like to participate in this volunteer opportunity, you can sign up online. Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Utility Engineer I & II – Electrical/Mechanical
Boulder City, NV
Engineering Manager
Las Vegas, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: May 18, 2022
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NSPE-NV wants to thank everyone who attended the recent National Engineers Week Finale Banquet and made it a success! More than 300 gathered on Saturday, May 7, at the Gold Coast Hotel and Casino for the Alice in Wonderland themed event. NSPE President-Elect Britt Smith, P.E., F.NSPE, and his wife attended as honored guests.
The event kicked off at 5:00 p.m. with the Order of the Engineer oath with 10 new inductees, followed by a cocktail hour and dinner. The night's festivities also featured a program to announce scholarships, awards, and door prizes. And we mixed in an escape room puzzle! The fun didn't stop there—the DJ made sure the after party was entertaining while attendees captured lasting memories in the photobooth.
We would like to thank all of the financial sponsors for the evening. And a special thanks for the EWeek committee for putting on a great event!
Award Winners
Date: May 18, 2022
On May 17, NSPE-NV held an in-person/virtual meeting to highlight two engineering senior design projects of University of Nevada (Las Vegas) students.
Project One: The "C" Spot—Evaluating CLSM Test Methods and Behaviors
Controlled low-strength material (CLSM) is low-strength concrete (between 50 to 150 psi) used as a cost-effective alternative to compacted natural soil. Industry and inspectors use different methods for compressive strength testing, resulting in widely varying strengths. When CLSM is outside of its low-strength range, it must be torn out, resulting in time and cost delays in construction. The "C" Spot evaluates three moulding methods (masonry block, grout box, and split cylinder), three capping methods (gypsum, sulfur, and neoprene), and studies the behavior of CLSM with relation to depth to evaluate the performance of current testing methods.
Meet the Presenters—Justin de Leon and Megan Taylor Agbayani
Justin de Leon is a civil engineering major and a project associate at Perlman Architects. He is the past president of Institute of Transportation Engineers' UNLV student chapter and was responsible for rechartering the chapter after 10 years of inactivity. His previous internship experiences were at D.R. Horton and Toll Brothers, where he has developed a passion for home building and construction.
Megan Taylor Agbayani is a civil engineering major. Her past internship experience was at Kimley-Horn and Associates, and she is planning on joining their solar team this fall as a civil analyst in their Las Vegas office. She is looking forward to playing an important role in many renewable energy projects across the country. During her free time, she is an avid reader, singer, and traveler.
Project Two: West Alexander Complete Street Redesign
The objective of this senior design project was to redesign West Alexander Road between Rancho Drive and Decatur Boulevard into a roadway that is safer for its nearly 6,000 daily road users, uniform between urban and rural sections, and functional for all modes of travel. The project scope included research of existing conditions and prior market solutions, alternative evaluations, and a final design with a proposed cost and schedule. The final proposed design is a complete street design that includes uniform vehicular lanes, sidewalks, bike lanes, and equestrian paths. The design also includes traffic-calming measures such as a lateral shift and raised medians, drainage infrastructure to reduce flooding during storm events, and roundabouts at the two major intersections to reduce travel speeds and minimize crash risks. The implementation of this final complete street design would transform West Alexander Road into a safe, accessible, and sustainable roadway.
Meet the Presenters—Gustavo Mendez, Bryan Oxborrow, and Hannah Singleton
Gustavo Mendez is a fresh graduate with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering. During his time as a student, he has gained a diverse experience through internships in the fields of surveying, structural engineering, materials testing, and residential land development. Mendez will be transitioning from an internship to a full-time position at Westwood Professional Services in Las Vegas.
After graduating with a bachelor's degree in architecture, Bryan Oxborrow furthered his education of the built environment and recently obtained a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. During his studies, Oxborrow has progressed his career in engineering and has experience in commercial land development, surveying, utility coordination, and structural engineering. He now works as a full-time project manager involving overseas projects in the telecommunications sector managing drawing production from conception to completion.
Hannah Singleton is a recent graduate with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering. She spent time in her undergraduate career interning with the Southern Nevada Water Authority where she found her passion of working in the water/wastewater industry. Singleton also performed undergraduate research studying the effects of thermal shock on the compressive strength of mortar and worked as a peer mentor in the UNLV College of Engineering. She looks forward to starting her engineering career this summer and starting a master's degree program in civil and environmental engineering this fall.
Scholarship Winners
The winners of the Charlie Vaughn Scholarship were also recognized during the meeting. Rebecca Smith and Robert Lonasco, III, will both receive $1,500.
Rebecca Smith is pursuing a bachelor in civil Engineering with a concentration on environmental/water resources at UNLV. Her personal interests have driven her passion for developing and integrating an expansive knowledge of the diverse perspectives and practices within the engineering field. By getting involved with organizations like "Learn to Be Civil," Rebels Forward, and, of course, NSPE, these aspirations have started to become a reality.
Smith's academic journey has given her not only the opportunity to learn, but also the opportunity to grow through community service, international design competitions, and professional mentorship. She is excited about what the future holds as she seeks to become an integral part of innovative solutions that serve the needs of our community and our world!
Robert Lonasco, III, is a third-year computer engineering major at UNLV. He is currently involved in the Las Vegas Scholars Program, a selective academic assistance organization and research study for computer engineering and computer science majors. He is a UNLV Tau Bate in the Nevada-Beta chapter.
This summer, Lonasco will be a software engineering intern at the Remote Sensing Laboratory at Nellis Air Force Base with Mission Support and Test Services, a Department of Energy contractor that manages the Nevada National Security Site. Last summer, he conducted research with UNLV's Office of Undergraduate Research; thus, he explored deep learning solutions on a Xilinx field-programmable gate array (FPGA) platform. Lonasco's hobbies and interests include: hiking, swimming, video games, music, collecting vinyls, and building gaming PCs!
Thanks to Our Sponsors! Jacobs and Aztech Inspections & Testing
Date: May 18, 2022
David James, Ph.D., P.E., F.NSPE, Mahsa Ghazian Arabi, Ph.D., P.E., and Brook Demitropoulos, P.E., attended the Nevada NASA EPSCoR statewide meeting where they presented the NASA Lander activity to in-person and virtual attendees on April 29.
Participants work on their designs.
David James tests a design.
David James gives thumbs up to the astronauts landing safely.
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunity
The Just One Project will be hosting its latest Pop Up & Give Mobile Market on Saturday, May 21, in multiple locations from 7:45 am – 11:00 am
If you would like to participate in this volunteer opportunity, you can sign up online. Please wear comfy closed toed shoes and bring water. Children 10 and older are welcome to participate.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Job
Public Works Director
Boulder City, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: April 20, 2022
The anticipation is building up as NSPE-NV members and guests get ready for the National Engineers Week Finale Banquet on Saturday, May 7, at the Gold Coast Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Modern Victorian or Alice in Wonderland character attire is encouraged (see the event invitation for details).
The event will begin at 5:00 p.m. with an Order of the Engineer ceremony. Cocktails (6:00 p.m.), dinner/awards (7:00 p.m.), and an after party will follow.
Order of the Engineer Registration
New and previous inductees are welcome to participate in the Order of the Engineer ceremony! For previous inductees, it's a great opportunity to "renew" your oath and celebrate this year's new inductees. All that want to participate must register by May 3.
Date: April 20, 2022
On April 19, NSPE-NV held an in-person/virtual meeting featuring Steve Dush and Bob Stern of Trimble Inc. to discuss recent developments around federal funding for infrastructure and economic recovery. Trimble Inc., based in Sunnyvale, California, is a $4 billion tech company focused solely on construction.
Meet the Presenters—Steve Dush and Bob Stern
Steve Dush is a seasoned sales professional who covers the Southwest United States for Trimble's PPM division. His background includes 15 years enterprise in technology account management and sales with Oracle (Primavera Global Business Unit), Computer Associates (CA) and Infor. The former CPA is a graduate of the University of Florida and resides in Austin, Texas.
Bob Stern is director of strategic initiatives at Trimble Utilities (a division of Trimble Inc.) where he is responsible for partnerships, alliances, and US infrastructure funding initiatives. Prior to his role as director at Trimble Utilities, Stern was product marketing and alliances manager where he spearheaded Trimble's Field Service Management Division's business development activity within utilities markets in the Americas. He also held other roles in Trimble in product marketing, marketing communications, and investor relations. Stern is a graduate of The Ohio State University and retired Army veteran.
Thanks to Our Sponsor! Ninyo & Moore
Date: April 20, 2022
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors has posted the latest issue of The Nevada Bulletin. This publication features information about Nevada law and professional ethics webinars scheduled for May and compliance news.
Date: April 20, 2022
Take the opportunity to inspire a future professional engineer during an upcoming job fair at Traner Middle School (Reno) on Friday, May 13, from 9:00 a.m. – 11: 45 a.m. Communities in Schools of Western Nevada seeks representatives to talk about their career paths and/or have a booth with information about different professions.
The goal of the event is to introduce these students to various career options they can have as they progress through their academic experience with an eye on what it takes to become gainfully employed after graduation.
Anyone interested in this outreach opportunity should contact Executive Director Nicole Willis-Grimes (Nicolew@cisnevada.org).
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Job
Air Quality Engineering Manager
Las Vegas, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: March 16, 2022
Registration is now open for the National Engineers Week Finale Banquet on Saturday, May 7, at the Gold Coast Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The last day for registering for the banquet is Friday, April 15.
The event will begin with an Order of the Engineer ceremony (5p.m.), followed by hosted cocktails (6 p.m.), dinner/awards (7 p.m.), and an after party. Modern Victorian or Alice in Wonderland character attire is encouraged (see the event invitation for details).
Sponsorship opportunities are also available for the banquet. Access sponsorship information here.
Date: March 16, 2022
On March 15, NSPE-NV held an in-person/virtual meeting featuring Josh Beakley, P.E., the vice president of engineering for the American Concrete Pipe Association. Beakley shared with attendees his expertise on research and design for the precast concrete culvert industry and criteria for design box culverts.
Meet the Presenter—Josh Beakley, P.E.
Josh Beakley is vice president of engineering for the American Concrete Pipe Association (ACPA) and is a registered professional engineer in Virginia. He received his bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Rutgers University in New Jersey, and a master's degree in geotechnical engineering from the University of Texas at Arlington.
Prior to joining ACPA in 1994, Beakley worked as a civil engineer for the Bechtel Power Corporation. In his job functions for the association, Beakley represents the industry on national standards making committees. He also coordinates research and design programs for the precast concrete culvert industry. Occasionally, he assists engineers with the design and specification of precast concrete pipe and box culverts as well as performing educational seminars.
Beakley is a member of ASCE, ACI, ASTM, and participates in AASHTO functions. He is a Spangler Award Winner, and an Award of Merit Honoree of ASTM, as well as a Heger Award Honoree of ACPA. He was also an ASCE Outstanding Reviewer in 2020 for the ASCE Journal of Pipeline Systems Engineering and Practice.
Thanks to Our Sponsor! American Concrete Pipe Association
Date: March 16, 2022
The Mobile Food Market distribution project will take place on Saturday, March 19 (7:45 a.m.-11 a.m.) at Canyon Springs High School (350 E Alexander Rd, North Las Vegas, NV 89032).
If you can volunteer, please send an RSVP to Brook Demitropoulos via email or call 702-336-9896. If you can't make it to this location, you can still register online for a different location.
Date: March 16, 2022
NSPE-NV members took the opportunity to reach out and engage with the future of the profession with Introduce a Kid to Engineering Day activities (Feb 19 & 26) at UNLV. Attendees received an introduction to engineering by participating in a "Pop Fly Catapult" activity and by building Arch Bridges and K'Nex structures. Thank you to members of the Engineers Week committee and volunteers for making this outreach possible!
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Date: March 16, 2022
NSPE-NV Southern Nevada Chapter donates to local engineering scholarships and STEAM outreach in local schools. With your support and generous donation of $10, we can ensure the continuation of making these opportunities possible for our local students and engineering community members.
A donation is optional, but would be greatly appreciated! Click here to donate.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as this will be a new process for many of us. Please feel free to contact us with any questions via email.
Date: March 16, 2022
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors will hold an PLS Standards of Practice Committee meeting on Thursday, March 17, at 2 p.m. The meeting agenda can be access here. The meeting can be attended virtually or by dialing into the meeting: +1 669 900 6833, Meeting ID: 8286438008
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Transportation Graduate Engineer
Las Vegas, NV
Senior Power Facilities Engineer
Las Vegas, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: February 16, 2022
NSPE-NV is happy to announce that the 2022 Engineers Week Finale Banquet has been rescheduled for Saturday, May 7 at The Gold Coast Hotel & Casino. Stay tuned for registration information on the NSPE-NV website and in the next issue of PE Matters.
Event Program
5:00 PM: Order of the Engineer
6:00 PM: Hosted cocktails
7:00 PM: Dinner and awards
An after party will follow the awards ceremony.
Date: February 16, 2022
On February 15, NSPE-NV held an in-person/virtual meeting to highlight the recent economic development and the future of the City of North Las Vegas. Mayor John J. Lee served as the featured speaker at the event held at Lawry's The Prime Rib. Since taking office in April 2013, Mayor Lee has transformed the City of North Las Vegas into an economic powerhouse and fulfilled his pledge to diversify Southern Nevada's economy.
Meet the Presenter—Mayor John J. Lee
Mayor John J. Lee is the kind of man you want in charge—a former Eagle Scout who is intelligent, fiercely driven, and guided by a love of his city and state. His vision for growth knows no bounds. In just four years, he has recruited multiple Fortune 500 companies and high-tech startups to North Las Vegas, including Amazon, Fanatics, The Honest Company, Hyperloop One, and Bed, Bath and Beyond. Under his leadership, thousands of jobs have been created, 14 million square feet of commercial and industrial space is in development, and more than $1 billion has been invested in North Las Vegas.
Mayor Lee and his team have expanded and enhanced the city's libraries, parks and recreation facilities, hired more than 100 public safety personnel and supported the development of hospitals and charter schools in the city.
On a personal note, Mayor Lee and his wife, Marilyn, have been married happily for 42 years and have seven children and 30 grandchildren. They reside in North Las Vegas and are active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In what little free time he has, Mayor Lee enjoys mountain biking, babysitting his grandchildren, and collecting menus from his favorite restaurants to decorate his office walls.
Thanks to Our Sponsor! Geotechnical & Environmental Services Inc. (GES)
GES is a firm that works diligently for its clients today, while keeping a keen eye on the future. Recognizing future challenges and determining the means to overcome those hurdles works to the advantage of GES’ roster of clients. The firm maintains offices in Las Vegas, Mesquite, and Reno.
Date: February 16, 2022
NSPE-NV members can access the presentation of last month's virtual luncheon meeting that focused on ethics. The meeting featured Steve Hiner, P.E., who works for the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors as a compliance investigator. Hiner discussed the NSPE Code of Ethics, the public's perception of engineers, and Nevada engineering statutes and regulations.
Date: February 16, 2022
The Rebels Forward Mentorship Program (Engineering) is looking for engineering industry professionals to mentor UNLV College of Engineering students. Mentors are asked to provide one-on-one engagement for at least a one-hour meeting per month. Access more information and sign up here.
Date: February 16, 2022
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors will hold an interim board meeting on Thursday, February 17 at 9:15 a.m. Access the agenda here. The meeting can be attended virtually or by dialing into the meeting: +1 669 900 6833, Meeting ID: 8286438008.
The board will also hold a Legislative Committee meeting on March 2 and a Professional Association Liaison Committee meeting on March 9.
Date: January 19, 2022
The Nevada Society of Professional Engineers is preparing to recognize all of the amazing contributions that members and engineers make to the profession and their communities. You don't want to miss out on this event…so stay tuned for more information!
Engineers Week (February 20–26) is a time to recognize the critical work of engineers, technicians, and technologists. Engineers Week was founded by NSPE in 1951. This year's theme—Reimagining the Possible!—pays tribute to engineers for the new possibilities they create all the time. From green buildings to fuel-efficient cars to life-saving vaccines, engineers work together to develop new technologies, products and opportunities that change how we live.
Date: January 19, 2022
On January 18, the Nevada Society of Professional Engineers hosted a virtual luncheon meeting focused on ethics. Steve Hiner, P.E., who works for the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors as a compliance investigator, was the featured speaker. During the meeting, Hiner discussed the NSPE Code of Ethics, the public's perception of engineers, and Nevada engineering statutes and regulations.
Meet the Presenter—Steve Hiner, P.E.
Steve Hiner, P.E., is a compliance investigator for the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors and is the owner of L.S. Hiner Consulting PLLC.
Hiner previously worked for Rinker Materials, a national manufacturer of precast concrete pipe and box culverts, for over 41 years. Considered an expert in his field, he has held a number of positions at Rinker including sales engineer, plant manager, corporate engineer and director of product development.
Prior to joining Rinker Materials, he was a technical services engineer and materials engineer for Martin Marietta Cement in the Washington, DC-Baltimore area. He graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 1976 with a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and is also a licensed engineer in Texas.
Date: January 19, 2022
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors has reached out to professional engineering associations in Nevada for input on potential revisions to or a repeal of NRS 338.173. This NRS offers a certificate of eligibility to local firms when bidding for work, which gives them preference for public works projects. However, the current version of the statute is not workable, and the certificates are not being issued.
The NVBPELS is requesting the boards of professional organizations to submit a letter of support for repeal or revision. The NVBPELS' memorandum and a copy of NRS 338.173 can be accessed here. Comments, concerns, and overall thoughts to the letter and how NSPE-NV should respond can be sent by email. Responses are due before January 27.
Licensing Board Meeting
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors will hold a board meeting on Thursday, January 20.
The meeting agenda and zoom link can be accessed on the licensing board website.
Date: January 19, 2022
NSPE-NV is calling on members to volunteer for the next Mobile Food Market distribution project on Saturday, January 22 (7:45 a.m.-11 a.m.) at Canyon Springs High School (350 E Alexander Rd, North Las Vegas, NV 89032).
If you can volunteer, please send an RSVP to Brook Demitropoulos via email or call 702-336-9896. If you can't make it to this location, you can still register online for a different location.
Date: January 19, 2022
Under President Biden's infrastructure plan that infuses $26.5 billion into bridge repair across the US, Nevada will receive $225 million. The funds will come over five years via the Federal Highway Administration. Aside from making much-needed repairs, a major goal of the funding is to help bridges withstand the effects of climate change by modernizing them, FHWA Administrator Stephanie Pollack said.
Date: January 19, 2022
The Nevada Department of Education will make a $4 million dollar investment of American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds to expand access to STEM and robotics programs statewide. In partnership with FIRST Nevada, the department will move closer to its goal of securing a robotics program in every school that serves K-12 students in Nevada, according to a news release.
The mission of FIRST Nevada is to inspire young people to become science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, inspire innovation, and foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.
This project aligns with the department's Statewide Plan for the Improvement of Pupils (STIP), value of access to quality, as well as its stated goal that "all students graduate future-ready and globally prepared for postsecondary success and civic life." Additionally, it aligns with the department's COVID-19 federal relief funding Advancing Equity focus area.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Traffic Engineer
Henderson, NV
Senior Project Engineer
Reno, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: December 15, 2021
NSPE-NV members are encouraged to help stuff the stocking to support Nevada PEP (Parents Empowering Parents). Nevada PEP is a nonprofit organization that offers education, empowerment, and encouragement to families of children with disabilities. The fundraising goal is $10,000.
The Southern Nevada chapter of the American Public Works Association is overseeing this year's fundraiser in addition to hosting a joint luncheon on December 16. Donations can be made by credit card (see the QR code below) or checks (made payable to APWA) can be delivered to Gina Venglass at the City of Las Vegas City Hall. Gina Venglass can also be contacted by email if there are any questions about the fundraiser.
Date: December 15, 2021
NSPE-NV wants to congratulate the Charlie Vaughn Scholarship winners! The recipients are Savanna Vacek (junior, civil engineering major), Johnil Kim (junior, computer science major), and Daunte Wade (junior, mechanical engineering major). These students attend the University of Las Vegas.
Date: December 15, 2021
NSPE-NV is looking for volunteers to help judge and score Future City Competition deliverables in January 2022 to decide which teams will advance to the regional competition. Some schools are also seeking engineering mentors to help provide some guidance.
If you are interested in helping young budding engineers, donating a few service hours, and obtaining some additional PDH credits, please contact Anthony Fiti (anthony.fiti@snvfuturecity.org) or Brian Kalina (Brian.Kalina@swgas.com) before January 6.
Date: December 15, 2021
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors will hold a board meeting on Thursday, January 20.
The meeting agenda can be accessed on the licensing board website.
Date: December 15, 2021
The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will pay to repair and rebuild roads and bridges in Nevada with a focus on climate change mitigation, resilience, equity, and safety for all users, including cyclists and pedestrians.
There are 28 bridges and over 1,090 miles of highway in poor condition in Nevada, according to the US Department of Transportation. Since 2011, commute times have increased by 7.7% in Nevada, and on average, each driver pays $558 per year in costs due to driving on roads in need of repair. The state will expect to receive approximately $2.7 billion over five years in federal highway formula funding for highways and bridges.
Nevada will also receive about $468 million over five years to improve public transportation options. Funding will also cover modernization of freight rail, increased EV charging options, airport improvements, and other infrastructure updates.
Date: November 17, 2021
NSPE-NH accepts application packages for the Excellence in Teaching Awards in the Fall of each school year. This year the submission deadline will be January 31, 2022.
Nominate an outstanding teacher and help us recognize those individuals that go above and beyond to educate our children in mathematics, science, technology and pre-engineering!
Learn more.
Date: November 17, 2021
In partnership with the US Department of Energy and several east coast universities, the University of New Hampshire will lead the Atlantic Marine Energy Center, the university announced. The center, which has been awarded $9.7 million over four years from DOE, will focus on research and development on sustainable renewable ocean energy. It will be one of only four National Marine Renewable Energy Centers in the country. The other academic institutions in the consortium are Stony Brook University, Lehigh University, and Coastal Studies Institute, which is administered by East Carolina University.
Date: November 17, 2021
The former Livermore Falls Bridge over the Pemigewasset River near Campton, closed since 1959, could become a new viewing spot for geological formations. Questions over the bridge’s ownership have hindered past efforts to protect it, the Union Leader reports, and could hamper new plans. Today, advocates want to convert it to a safe public viewing area for some of the area’s most spectacular sights.
The bridge, built in 1886 by the Berlin Iron Bridge Co., features a distinctive “pumpkin seed” truss superstructure below the deck. It has been photographed and studied by many engineering and architecture students and interested hobbyists over the years.
Date: October 20, 2021
State President/Foundation Vice Chair and Trustee
Bob Thomsen, P.E.
Bob Thomsen has over 29 years of career experience, 25 of those years have been at Geotechnical & Environmental Services Inc. He is currently a principal engineer and is licensed in Arizona and Nevada.
State President-Elect/National Delegate/Foundation Trustee
Martin Jensen, P.E.
Martin Jensen has been the geotechnical and environmental department manager for NOVA Geotechnical & Inspection Services since October 2013. He started his career in the Las Vegas Valley in 2000 and is licensed in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah.
State Immediate Past-President/Foundation Chair and Trustee
Brian Kalina, P.E.
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Brian Kalina has more than 15 years of experience in construction and engineering responsibilities, 10 of those years have been in the natural gas industry. He is currently a technical services manager with the Southwest Gas and is licensed in Nevada.
State Treasurer/Foundation Trustee
Michael Ross, P.E.
Michael Ross has more than 15 years in the natural gas industry and is currently the supervisor of compliance with Southwest Gas. He is licensed in Nevada.
State Secretary/Foundation Trustee
Christian Herrera, P.E.
Christian Herrera is a distribution engineer for Southwest Gas and previously worked for NV Energy. He is licensed in Nevada.
State Vice President /Auditor/Foundation Trustee
Robert Aytes, P.E.
STEM Outreach Chair/Foundation Trustee
Brook Demitropoulos, P.E.
Past Chairman/Foundation Trustee
Craig Sisco, P.E., F.NSPE
Order of the Engineer Chair/Foundation Trustee
David James, Ph.D., P.E., F.NSPE
MATHCOUNTS Coordinator/Foundation Trustee
Claire Kohatsu, P.E.
Foundation Trustee
Tom Miller, P.E.
Foundation Trustee
Jonathan Tull, P.E.
Date: October 20, 2021
NSPE-NV hosted a luncheon meeting featuring Jason Gardner, CPTD, the manager of organizational change for the Southwest Gas. Gardner recently completed a two-year job rotation where he oversaw the organizational change activities for the largest transformation project in SWGas history: the Customer Information System conversion to SAP. The meeting was held at Lawry's The Prime Rib on October 19.
The Presenter—Jason Gardner, CPTD
Jason Gardner, CPTD, is the manager of organizational change for Southwest Gas, a natural gas transportation and distribution company with over 2300 employees across a three-state service territory. In this role, he strategizes and delivers expert organizational change management leadership and support for department-level and large-scale organizational change projects across the Southwest Gas enterprise.
Gardner's team focuses on addressing the people side of change projects (e.g., process, technology, organizational structure, and culture changes), and collaborates with groups and levels across the organization including project teams in integrating change management activities into their business and project plans.
Gardener is one of the first Certified Professionals in Talent Development in Southern Nevada, achieving this certification in 2009. He is also past president of the local chapter of the Association for Talent Development (formerly ASTD).
Special Thanks!
NSPE-NV would like to thank the sponsor of this month's meeting—Southwest Gas.
Date: October 20, 2021
NSPE-NV once again exhibited its strong commitment to outreach and STEAM education by participating in the Summerlin Festival of Arts on October 9-10. Members hosted a booth to showcase fun, hands-on engineering activities.
The Summerlin Festival of Arts is a popular outdoor festival at Downtown Summerlin, the community's open-air fashion, dining, and entertainment center. The event attracts more than 50,000 festival-goers throughout this two-day weekend event. The festival includes children's activities, food, and entertainment to create a full-bodied experience that has made it one of the most beloved annual events in Southern Nevada.
Volunteer Opportunity: Just One Project–Pop Up & Give
NSPE-NV is calling on members to volunteer for the next Mobile Food Market distribution project on Saturday, October 23 (7:45 a.m.-11 a.m.) at Canyon Springs High School (350 E Alexander Rd, North Las Vegas, NV 89032).
If you can volunteer, please send an RSVP to Brook Demitropoulos via email or call 702-336-9896. Please wear comfortable shoes. Children ages 10 and up are welcome to participate.
Date: October 20, 2021
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors has released its latest newsletter—October 2021. Learn about new regulations, board appointments, renewal reminders, and updates on other licensure and examination topics in this issue.
And did you know that you can earn a PDH by reading an article about the adoption of new regulations? Don't wait…access the newsletter on the board website.
Board Public Hearing
The licensing board will conduct a virtual public hearing to receive comments about the adoption of regulations that pertain to Chapter 625 of the Nevada Administrative Code.
The public hearing will be held virtually via Zoom on Thursday, November 18 at 9:15 a.m. Access the hearing agenda here.
Date: October 20, 2021
Gaps in Nevada's built environment make heat dangerous for its residents, especially those with lower incomes, according to report by Nancy Brune and Lucy Rodriguez. The researchers recently wrote about their findings in a guest column for the Las Vegas Sun.
In interviews with residents of Southern Nevada, they found that most people are impacted by the heat while in transit to work or school, and while in school. The affects are also divided by socioeconomics, they said. Lower-income citizens tend to suffer more because of things like broken air conditioners in their cars, waiting at hot bus stops, walking, or sitting in old schools with outdated HVAC systems. The pair recommend that leaders rethink the built environment with these factors in mind, especially considering rising average temperatures.
NSPE-NV is calling on members to volunteer.
What: NSPE-NV will need a group of volunteers for the STEAM outreach booth at the Downtown Summerlin Festival of Arts
When: Saturday & Sunday, October 9 – 10, 2021
Time: Shifts available from 10:00 am – 1:30 pm or 1:30 pm – 5:00 pm (Pacific)
Where: Downtown Summerlin (2025 Festival Plaza Drive, Suite 205, Las Vegas, NV, 89135)
If you can volunteer, please RSVP to Brook Demitropoulos
Date: September 15, 2021
Topic: Utility Coordination and Plan Review Updates, Current Issues, and New Processes
NSPE-NV will host its monthly luncheon to highlight the topic of utility coordination and plan review updates, current issues, and new processes. The meeting will take place at Lawry's The Prime Rib (4043 Howard Hughes Parkway Las Vegas, NV 89169) on Tuesday, September 21 from 11:30 a.m.-1.p.m.
Featured Speakers
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Registration
The in-person registration fee for members is $35 and $20 for student members. Registrations submitted after September 16 will be charged an additional $5 fee.
If you are unable to attend in-person, please join the meeting virtually from 11:50 a.m. to 1 p.m. A meeting link will be provided when registration and payment is received ($10 for members and free for students). Access meeting information and registration here.
Meeting Sponsor
NSPE-NV would like to recognize the sponsor of this month's meeting
Date: September 15, 2021
The Las Vegas Aviators will host a Transportation Industry game night on Friday, September 24 (Las Vegas Ball Park) to show appreciation for the industry's contribution to the city.
Tickets can be purchased on this website for $20-$25. A portion of the ticket fee ($5) will be donated to the Three Square Food Bank.
Date: September 15, 2021
The Annual MATHCOUNTS/NSPE/ACI Sporting Clays Fundraiser will be held on Friday, October 15 at the Pro Gun Club (12801 Old U.S. 95, Boulder City, Nevada 89005). The fee for the tournament is $125 per participant and includes tournament entry, lunch, an awards ceremony, and a raffle drawing.
Download the fundraiser form to register for the event and/or to sign up for sponsorship opportunities. Registration and payment are due by October 7.
Date: September 15, 2021
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors will hold a professional association liaison and general board meetings on Thursday, September 16.
Individuals that would like to attend the meetings can log on to this Zoom meeting website or dial into the meeting (1-669-900-6833, Meeting ID: 8286438008). The meeting agendas can be accessed on the licensing board website.
Date: September 15, 2021
A $1 trillion infrastructure bill that received bipartisan support in the Senate last month includes billions of dollars for Western water projects and programs.
The Biden administration has called the infrastructure bill, which includes $8.3 billion for Western water infrastructure, "the largest investment in the resilience of physical and natural systems in American history," according to the Las Vegas-Review Journal.
Of the $8.3 billion dedicated to Western water, $450 million is set aside for a competitive grant program to fund large-scale projects that advance water recycling.
"This will secure the water future of Nevadans as well as Americans across the Colorado River Basin," Southern Nevada Water Authority General Manager John Entsminger said this month.
That program could help pay for a massive recycling project in California that would leave Nevada with access to more water in Lake Mead.
Read more.
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Job
Utilities Director
Boulder City, NV
Technical Project Manager, Energy Efficiency
Reno, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: August 19, 2021
NSPE-NV hosted a meeting on August 17 that focused on the Horizon Lateral project. Adriana Ventimiglia, P.E., senior program engineer, provided insight on this new water transmission pipeline designed by the Southern Nevada Water Authority.
Project Spotlight
With economic development opportunities in Southern Nevada's horizon, the regional water system requires new, additional facilities to provide the capacity for new demands while maintaining or improving existing service levels for customers. According to the Southern Nevada Water Authority's Major Construction and Capital Plan (2020) document, the Horizon Lateral represents the largest project proposed in terms of cost, timeline, and magnitude.
Nearly 40% of the residents and businesses in the southern portion of the Las Vegas Valley are currently served by the South Valley Lateral, which is projected to reach 95% capacity by 2034. The singlefeed transmission lateral does not have redundant facilities to provide back-up water service to the area, highlighting the need for an additional lateral to ensure future reliability and system capacity.
When completed, the new lateral will offer redundancy for a large portion of SNWA customers and the capacity to meet new demands in the southern portion of the water system. It will be designed to increase the transmission system capacity from the current 306 million gallons per day.
The Presenter—Adriana Ventimiglia, P.E.
Adriana Ventimiglia, P.E., graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. She has worked at the Las Vegas Valley Water District for over 14 years, starting as a civil engineer PE, senior civil engineer, and now serving as a senior program engineer.
Special Thanks!
NSPE-NV would like to thank the sponsor of this month's meeting, Black & Veatch—an international employee-owned engineering, procurement, consulting, and construction with an office in Las Vegas.
Date: August 19, 2021
NSPE-NV members recently celebrated the contributions of the profession during the sixth annual PE Day. But don't wait until next year's national event to show off this commitment to the profession. NSPE President Rick Guerra, P.E., F.NSPE, believes that proud members of the NSPE community can do so in the following ways all year round:
- Introduce yourselves as Licensed Professional Engineers
- Get to know your fellow PEs
- Use #ProudPE in your communications and social media posts
Date: August 19, 2021
NSPE-NV is calling on members to volunteer for the next Mobile Food Market distribution project on Saturday, August 21 from 7:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Canyon Springs High School (350 E Alexander Rd, North Las Vegas, NV 89032).
If you can volunteer, please RSVP to brook.demitropoulos@jacobs.com or call 702-336-9896. Gloves will be provided, but volunteers must provide their own masks. If you can't make it to this location, you can still register online for a different location.
Date: August 19, 2021
US Senator Jacky Rosen released a statement following the Senate's passage of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to highlight the investments that will benefit Nevada.
The following are some of the investments that are featured in the legislation
- Roads, Bridges, & Highways: $110 billion in new nationwide funds for roads, bridges, and major projects, and a reauthorization of the surface transportation program for the next five years. $40 billion in new funding for bridge repair, replacement, and rehabilitation. $11 billion in transportation safety programs.
- Transit: $39 billion of new investment to modernize transit and improve accessibility.
- Water: $8.3 billion in overall investment for western water systems. $1 billion for water recycling and reuse projects. $300 million for implementing the Colorado River Basin Drought Contingency Plan (a seven-state agreement, which includes Nevada, to avoid catastrophic water supply shortages in the western US).
Date: August 19, 2021
The Nevada Department of Transportation is inviting the public to comment on planned transportation projects and improvements as outlined in the Annual Work Program (AWP) and the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) through August 26.
The public can comment on the draft list of projects contained in the proposed AWP and STIP before it is finalized for review and potential approval and/or acceptance by the state transportation board and governing federal agencies.
The fiscally constrained, four-year plan outlines federal and state-funded transportation projects, as well as regionally significant transportation improvements funded through local and/or state dollars in accordance with the Federal Aid Highway Act and Federal Transit Act. These projects improve the capacity of Nevada's transportation system, such as increasing lanes, constructing new roads and intersection improvements along with certain road maintenance projects. It also includes transit, rail, pedestrian walkway, and bicycle facility projects.
All public comment must be submitted by August 26 to this NVDOT email address.
Date: August 19, 2021
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Job
Project Manager (Water/Wastewater)
Carson City, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: July 21, 2021
NSPE-NV hosted a virtual meeting on July 20 that focused on innovative City of Las Vegas projects. City engineer Steve Ford, P.E., C.E.M., provided updates on several projects involving the Las Vegas Gateway Arches, Project Enchilada, the Las Vegas Medical District, and Symphony Park.
Project Highlights
The Las Vegas Gateway Arches are illuminated arches that are 80-feet-tall and form a gateway to downtown Las Vegas. They are located on Las Vegas Boulevard between St. Louis and Bob Stupak avenues at the base of The STRAT Hotel, Casino & SkyPod. The arches were conceived and designed by Selbert Perkins Design and fabricated and installed by YESCO, the 100-year-old company synonymous with Las Vegas’ most iconic signs. The archway marks travelers’ official arrival into the city.
Project Enchilada is based on the Downtown Master Plan adopted by the Las Vegas City Council in 2016. It is a public-private collaborative concept for the business of streetscapes, open space, retail development, retail renovation and enhancement of downtown areas. To begin, Project Enchilada will bring green, open space, illumination, and overall stabilization to East Fremont Street from Las Vegas Boulevard to 14th Street.
The Las Vegas Medical District is a collaborative effort between the City of Las Vegas and the downtown Las Vegas medical and healthcare community. The district is designed to build on the sense of community and to enhance the quality of healthcare for Southern Nevadans.
Symphony Park is located on 61 acres in the heart of downtown Las Vegas. It is home to arts, culture, science and medicine and offers opportunities for retail, restaurant or mixed-use development.
The Presenter
Steve Ford, P.E., C.E.M., is a graduate of Brigham Young University and the Air Force Institute of Technology. He started at the City of Las Vegas in 1997 as a project engineer.
Ford has also served as the superintendent of the Streets & Sanitation Division, facility manager, and deputy director of the operations and maintenance department, prior to serving as city engineer. He a 23-year veteran of the US Air Force & US Air Force Reserves.
Special Thanks!
NSPE-NV would like to give recognition to ASCE for serving as a cohost and to the sponsor of this month's virtual meeting, Carollo Engineers—a national environmental engineering firm specializing in the planning, design, and construction of water and wastewater facilities with offices in Las Vegas and Reno.
Date: July 21, 2021
NSPE-NV is calling on members to volunteer for the next Mobile Food Market distribution project on Saturday, July 24 from 7:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Canyon Springs High School (350 E Alexander Rd, North Las Vegas, NV 89032).
If you can volunteer, please RSVP to brook.demitropoulos@jacobs.com or call 702-336-9896. If you can't make it to this location, you can still register online for a different location.
Date: July 21, 2021
Farro Tofighi, P.E., a structural engineer who has worked on the some of the most well-known high-rises on the Las Vegas Strip, has a message for anyone here who worries about building safety in the wake of the condo tragedy that happened in Florida last month, according to a Las Vegas Sun article.
"Something like that rarely happens," said Tofighi, the managing principal at DeSimone Consulting Engineers, a global firm with offices in Las Vegas, New York City, and Miami among other cities. "I don’t believe people here have any reason to worry."
Nearly 100 have been found dead in the rubble of a Surfside, Florida, condominium building that collapsed last month. Others are still missing and presumed dead.
Hours after the tragedy, Tofighi started receiving phone calls from concerned friends and colleagues around the nation wondering if their building could also be at risk.
"It boggles my mind that it happened," said Tofighi, who moved to Las Vegas in the early 1990s to work on the construction of MGM Grand. "If you're a condo owner or a building owner in Las Vegas, I wouldn't worry about your building coming down. We design buildings well."
Read more.
Date: July 21, 2021
Adam Sullivan, P.E., has been appointed to serve as Nevada's 24th state engineer and administrator of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Division of Water Resources (NDWR).
Sullivan was named acting state engineer in November 2020, when the previous state engineer, Tim Wilson, P.E., retired after 25 years of service. As state engineer, he will lead NDWR in its mission to conserve, protect, and manage Nevada’s limited water resources for the benefit of current and future generations of Nevadans.
Sullivan has worked on all aspects of water resources throughout the state for more than 20 years and has been with NDWR since 2009. Over the years, he has been at the forefront of tackling many of Nevada's most complex water issues, with a focus on leveraging the best available science to guide responsible water management decisions and actively collaborating with the broad range of stakeholders and communities across the state.
Under Sullivan's leadership, the division will continue to proactively address water issues that affect all Nevadans—including increasing demand for limited water resources, floods and prolonged drought, dam safety, and sustainment of our wetlands and freshwater ecosystems—all within the over-arching context of Nevada’s rapidly growing population and the accelerating impacts of climate change occurring in all corners of the state.
Read more.
Date: July 21, 2021
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors will hold a virtual meeting on Thursday, August 12 at 9:15 a.m.
Individuals that would like to attend the meeting can log on to this Zoom meeting website or dial into the meeting (1-669-900-6833, Meeting ID: 8286438008). The meeting agenda can be accessed on the licensing board website.
Date: June 16, 2021
Professional engineers have unique skills and knowledge and carry an obligation to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. NSPE and the Nevada Society of Professional Engineers are dedicated to supporting these professionals throughout their careers.
NSPE and NSPE-NV helps PEs to stay current on the latest in engineering through leadership training, networking, and ethical guidance, all to safeguard the wellbeing of the public and navigate the new challenges that engineers confront daily. NSPE-NV members are encouraged to share the value of membership at the national, state, and local levels when engaging with their peers.
Date: June 16, 2021
On June 10, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak signed two pieces of legislation to promote investment in the state's clean energy economy and infrastructure.
Senate Bill 448 will accelerate transmission development, renewable energy and storage, bolstering Nevada's clean energy economy, creating much-needed jobs, improving health and air quality for all Nevadans, and reaching emissions reduction targets.
Senate Bill 430 expands and makes structural changes to the State Infrastructure Bank. The legislation, coupled with a $75 million appropriation of general obligation bonds included in the Governor's recommended budget, will ensure the bank can begin approving important infrastructure projects throughout the state.
Date: June 16, 2021
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors will hold a Legislative Committee meeting on Thursday, June 17 at 4 p.m. Individuals that would like to attend the meeting virtually can log on to this Zoom meeting website or dial into the meeting +1 669 900 6833 (Meeting ID: 8286438008).
Here are some of the topics that the committee will be discussing
- The future of licensing of engineers as it relates to emerging technologies and blended engineering degrees including considering retention and/or modification of specific disciplines licensed by the board.
- Nevada Legislature Senate Bill 402 as it relates to elimination of state specific exam for professional engineering endorsement licensure for military and military spouses. Consider elimination for all applicants seeking professional engineering endorsement licensure.
- Consider alternative paths to licensure for teaching professors and PhD applicants.
Access the meeting agenda.
Date: June 16, 2021
As 2020 kicked off, many firms across the commercial real estate engineering industry were poised for their best year ever. The Nevada economy was healthy, with growth across most industry sectors as new and expanding businesses created new development projects that required commercial real estate (CRE) engineering services. Metro areas were busy with private development and public works projects. Rural areas were seeing some private development, and municipalities were making infrastructure improvements.
The CRE engineering industry includes civil, geotechnical, and environmental engineering, construction materials testing, and structural engineering—everything from infrastructure that leads to new construction to construction itself, and all of those sectors were busy.
When COVID-19 caused the shutdown of nonessential businesses statewide, it looked like the year that started as the best ever for the industry might end as one of the worst. That didn't happen. A recent Nevada Business magazine article features the perspectives of AEC leadership on how the industry fared in 2020 and how 2021 is panning out.
Read more.
Date: June 16, 2021
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Job
Technical Project Manager, Energy Efficiency
Reno, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
What: Mobile Food Market - Distribute food into trunks of vehicles
When: Saturday, May 22, 2021 at 7:45 am – 11:00 am
Where: Canyon Springs High School (350 E Alexander Rd, North Las Vegas, NV 89032)
The NSPE-NV STEAM Outreach Committee wants to thank members for their past and current commitment to serving the community.
The society is calling on members to volunteer for the next Mobile Food Market distribution project on Saturday, May 22 from 7:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Canyon Springs High School (350 E Alexander Rd, North Las Vegas, NV 89032).
If you can volunteer, please RSVP to brook.demitropoulos@jacobs.com or 702-336-9896. If you can't make it to this location, you can still register online for a different location.
Date: May 19, 2021
On May 8-10, more than 200 students from around the nation gathered virtually for the 2021 Raytheon Technologies MATHCOUNTS National Competition. NSPE-NV congratulates the team representing Davidson Academy in Reno, Nevada, for being top mathletes in the state and participating in the national competition.
- Evan Lim (8th grade)
- Alexander Weaver (7th grade)
- Shelly Yang (8th grade)
- Akshansh Chauhan (8th grade)
- Diana Martin (coach)
An extra special thanks goes out to Claire Kohatsu, P.E. She serves as NSPE-NV's MATHCOUNTS coordinator and helped to ensure that students and their coaches had the resources to participate in the program.
Date: May 19, 2021
On May 13, Governor Steve Sisolak hosted a virtual roundtable on energy in Nevada to discuss reliable electricity, stable rates, transportation electrification, job opportunities, equity, and a climate-focused future for all Nevadans.
Two roundtable panels featured community and energy leaders and focused on transmission and markets and on jobs and economic opportunities.
Watch the roundtable on Governor Sisolak's YouTube channel.
Date: May 19, 2021
The Nevada Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors will hold a meeting on Thursday, May 20 at 9 a.m. Individuals that would like to attend the meeting virtually can log on to this website or dial into the meeting +1 669 900 6833 (Meeting ID: 8286438008).
Access the meeting agenda.
Date: May 19, 2021
Professional engineers have unique skills and knowledge and carry an obligation to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. NSPE and the Nevada Society of Professional Engineers are dedicated to supporting these professionals throughout their careers.
NSPE and NSPE-NV helps PEs to stay current on the latest in engineering through leadership training, networking, and ethical guidance, all to safeguard the wellbeing of the public and navigate the new challenges that engineers confront daily. NSPE-NV members are encouraged to share the value of membership at the national, state, and local levels when engaging with their peers.
Learn more about membership benefits.
Date: May 19, 2021
NSPE's Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Senior Director of Transportation
Las Vegas, NV
Senior Civil Engineer (Structural, Mechanical, Civil)
Las Vegas, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: April 21, 2021
On April 20, the NSPE-NV Southern Nevada Chapter sponsored a virtual meeting on the topic of challenges and innovations around using concrete in sustainable infrastructure. The meeting featured Thomas J. Van Dam, Ph.D., P.E., a principal at Nichols Consulting Engineers with over 35 years of civil engineering experience, specializing in concrete design, assessment, sustainability, and resiliency.
Van Dam is a co-principal investigator on the FHWA’s Sustainable Pavements Program and principal author of the FHWA's Toward Sustainable Pavements–A Reference Manual amongst other documents focused on bringing sustainable design into practice. He is active in the American Concrete Institute where he serves on the Technical Activities Committee as well as numerous other technical committees.
Van Dam has also published over 100 technical articles and is a frequent presenter on pavements, pavement materials, and sustainability.
Date: April 21, 2021
Did you know that NSPE-NV member David James, Ph.D., P.E., F.NSPE, pursued an engineering career because his parents believed that he should be in a fun field? Also, did you know that his interest in K-12 STEM outreach began in 2010 when he attended a science and technology festival at the National Mall to help attendees with a "Pop Fly Catapult" activity?
A recent article on the UNLV News Center site spotlights David James' 30-year career as civil and environmental engineering faculty member at the Southern Nevada institution in addition to his contributions to increase environmental research and advocacy, as well as K-12 outreach.
Read more.
Date: April 21, 2021
The NSPE-NV STEAM Outreach Committee wants to thank members for their past and current commitment to serving the community.
The society is calling on members to volunteer for the next Mobile Food Market distribution project on Saturday, April 24 from 7:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Canyon Springs High School (350 E Alexander Rd, North Las Vegas, NV 89032).
If you can volunteer, please RSVP to brook.demitropoulos@jacobs.com or 702-336-9896. If you can't make it to this location, you can still register online for a different location.
Date: April 21, 2021
Nevada's drinking water infrastructure will need more than $5 billion in maintenance costs over the next two decades, according to a Las Vegas Sun article. Internet access in portions of the state's vast rural areas is lacking. And extreme weather has brought more than $1 billion in repairs over the last decade.
These issues were part of a list of Nevada infrastructure needs released by the Biden administration in a push for support of the president's $2.3 trillion jobs and infrastructure bill, the American Jobs Plan.
Read more.
Date: April 21, 2021
Nevada has been at the forefront of recognizing the role autonomous vehicles will have in its transportation future. A recent article featured on the Sierra Nevada Ally website examines the legislative activities that are paving the way for this technology.
The article points out that Nevada became the first state in the US to authorize the operation of autonomous vehicles by passing Assembly Bill 511 in 2011. In 2017, state lawmakers made Assembly Bill 69 law, a measure that authorized fully autonomous vehicles to be tested or operated on state highways, as long as certain safety requirements are met.
Nevada recently took another step in evaluating and licensing of autonomous vehicles during an Assembly Growth and Infrastructure Committee hearing to consider Assembly Bill 412. The bill is a measure that would update sections of state law to reflect technological advances in the autonomous vehicle industry.
Read more.
Date: April 21, 2021
NSPE’s Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Civil Engineer and CAD Drafter
Reno, NV
Engineering Associate
North Las Vegas, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: March 17, 2021
Everyone who participated in the 2021 Virtual Engineers Week—Imagining Tomorrow activities made it a success! The Order of the Engineer ceremony and a Virtual Finale Banquet and Afterparty (complete with bingo and beer tasting fun) allowed members to safely celebrate the profession and recognize the significant contributions of their peers.
All of this wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of the 2021 Engineers Week Committee, the contributions of sponsors, and the collaboration of professional societies. Thank you! If you missed out on this year's activities, stay tuned for a recording of the Finale Banquet and other highlights on the NSPE-NV website.
Congratulations to the 2021 NSPE-NV Award Winners!
Engineer of the Year
Brian Kalina, P.E.
Young Engineer of the Year
Turhan Bae, P.E.
Ramona Lesley Distinguished Service Award
Mary Clyburn, P.E.
Charlie Vaughn Scholarship Recipients
Meral Abu-Jaser
Konrad Campbell
Project of the Year
Allegiant Stadium
Date: March 17, 2021
On February 26, 2021, Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak was joined by Michael Brown, the executive director of the Governor's Office of Economic Development, and Jeremy Aguero, principal analyst at Applied Analysis to discuss the state’s Innovation Zone proposal.
As previously reported in Interesting Engineering, Governor Sisolak first unveiled plans for Innovation Zones during his 2021 State of the State address on January 19, 2021.
At the press conference, Sisolak described the unprecedented economic impact COVID-19 has had on Nevada's tourism and gaming industries, and he described the Innovation Zones as a way to lure to the state companies that are at the forefront of "groundbreaking technologies", such as blockchain, autonomous technology, robotics, artificial intelligence, the internet of things, wireless technology and renewable energy.
Innovation Zones would allow companies who purchase a minimum of 50,000 acres of land to be granted the same powers as that granted county governments, including the ability to impose and collect taxes, create court systems, build schools and other infrastructure and make land and water management decisions.
Sisolak pointed out that Innovation Zones don't require authorities to offer companies tax abatements or other financial incentives. Companies will be required to make an immediate investment of $250 million in infrastructure plus make $1 billion in investment over the course of ten years.
Read more.
Date: March 17, 2021
NV Energy's Greenlink Nevada transmission infrastructure initiative is poised to be among Nevada's first major infrastructure projects that will create immediate, good paying jobs for thousands of Nevadans and align with Governor Steve Sisolak's vision for the state's new sustainable energy economy.
NV Energy proposed Greenlink Nevada to transform the clean energy landscape by tapping into resource-rich renewable energy zones throughout western and northern Nevada, to increase electric reliability for all Nevadans and to drive the creation of jobs and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, according to an agency release. The project is currently pending regulatory approval in front of the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada and a decision is expected in March 2021.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the job and economic benefits of essential clean energy infrastructure initiatives like Greenlink Nevada to the forefront, not only in Nevada, but nationally, as seen in President Joe Biden’s executive order on the climate crisis that calls for the deployment of clean energy and transmission projects," said Doug Cannon, NV Energy president and chief executive officer. "NV Energy is committed to working with Governor Sisolak to help propel our state’s economic recovery while also advancing the State's renewable and climate action goals."
NV Energy's investment of more than $2.5 billion in Greenlink Nevada is expected to generate $690 million in economic activity and support nearly 4,000 jobs, including the utilization of skilled union labor. The initiative will also allow for the development of renewable energy projects throughout Nevada that will contribute significant economic growth in the form of nearly 2,000 additional construction jobs and related tax revenue.
Date: March 17, 2021
NSPE’s Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today's top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Principal Civil Engineer
Reno, NV
Civil Project Engineer/Project Manager
Reno, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Topic: EF Phase II Workshop 2
Description: Fellows (educators) and PE (professional engineers) will collaborate to develop authentic engineering lesson contexts.
Virtual Session with CCSD teachers on Saturday, February 27, 2021 from 9 am – 12 pm. Register for the Zoom meeting.
RSVP: Please RSVP by email to Brook Demitropoulos or call Brook at 702.336.9896, so she can get an accurate count of volunteers.
Date: February 17, 2021
As the pandemic continues taking a heavy toll, the profession finds new ways of reaching students—from a distance. MATHCOUNTS, DiscoverE, and other STEM outreach programs, are using virtual technology to provide creative initiatives and programs.
In a recent PE magazine article, Brook Demitropoulos P.E., and Claire Kohatsu P.E., shared how NSPE-NV shifted its focus to provide STEM Outreach resources and programs despite the challenges.
Read the full article.
Date: February 17, 2021
Engineers Week is a time to celebrate the important work of engineers and engage the next generation of innovators. Even with social distancing, you can make a difference. Here are a few activities that will be of interest to NSPE-NV members.
NSPE-NV Events
Engineers Week Banquet
This year’s Engineers Week Finale Banquet will be held as a virtual event on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 5p.m. The banquet will be followed by a virtual after party.
Registered attendees will receive a registration goodie bag and will have a chance to win a GRAND PRIZE and other door prizes!
Order of the Engineer Ceremony
The Engineers Week Virtual Order of the Engineer Ceremony will take place on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 12p.m. A link to the virtual event will be provided to all registered attendees.
NSPE Events
Future of Engineering
Join NSPE leaders Tricia Hatley, P.E., F.NSPE and Rick Guerra, P.E., F.NSPE, as they discuss the future of engineering and how our changing world will impact the profession during a free webinar on Monday, February 22 (1 p.m.-2p.m. ET/10 a.m.-11 a.m. PT). Webinar participants can earn one professional development hour.
2021 NSPE Federal Engineer of the Year Award Webcast
NSPE celebrates the 2021 federal agency winners, the Top 10 Finalists, and announces the 2021 NSPE Federal Engineer of the Year via pre-recorded webcast on Wednesday, February 24 at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT on the NSPE website and YouTube channel.
NSPE Trivia Hour
Cap off your Engineers Week with some Friday fun. Join your peers for a lively game of trivia on Friday, February 26 at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT. The cost is just $15 for members or $25 for non-members. Sign up to show off your trivia knowledge—or just to play a fun game with new friends.
Date: February 17, 2021
The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada, the Nevada DOT, and partners received a $6 million grant to expand emerging technologies on Las Vegas freeways.
The 5-mile expansion will extend west of downtown Las Vegas between I-15 and Summerlin Parkway on US 95, a critical corridor that carries approximately 230,000 vehicles daily, according to a Roads & Bridges article. These technologies will help enhance safety by mitigating congestion, decreasing the number of crashes, reducing travel time, and increasing overall efficiency of the freeway.
The $6 million in funding comes from the Federal Highway Administration Advanced Transportation and Congestion Management Technologies Deployment (ATCMTD) program. The ATCMTD program funds early deployments of forward-looking technologies that can serve as national models.
Read more.
Date: February 17, 2021
The Nevada Department of Transportation is looking ahead to the summer road construction season by accepting applications for paid summer internships through February 26.
The internship program allows students to gain real-life engineering and construction experience with on-the-job training in civil and environmental engineering, including highway construction, maintenance, surveying and asset management, as well as traffic engineering, ADA compliance and civil rights, environmental stewardship and bridge inspection.
The internships take place May through August 2021 and pay up to $19 per hour, depending on education and experience. Applicants must be a high school graduate and currently enrolled in a college program. All interns will also be provided a health safety class including COVID-related health safety protocol.
Applications are being accepted for positions in Carson City, Las Vegas, Reno, Elko, Ely, Tonopah and Winnemucca. Applications can be submitted by selecting the “careers” link of nevadadot.com.
Date: February 17, 2021
Transportation is the number one source of climate pollution in Nevada, and without bold action in this sector, the state will fall short of its goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero or near-zero by 2050. A new report highlights the environmental and economic benefits of the Clean Cars Nevada program, which is designed to bring more low- and zero-emission vehicles to dealerships, increasing affordability and delivering cleaner options for sale in the state.
In 2020, Governor Steve Sisolak directed the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection to start the process of adopting Clean Cars Nevada. The initiative includes a public process to establish low-emission vehicle and zero-emission vehicle requirements for automakers similar to those that have already been adopted in several states.
The Nevada Department of Environmental Protection is launching a series of technical sessions on February 23 to gather public input on the proposed Clean Cars Nevada program.
Access the report.
Date: February 17, 2021
NSPE’s Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today’s top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Director Engineering & Operations
Wells, NV
Civil Project Engineer/Project Manager
Reno, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
Date: January 27, 2021
Engineers Week Banquet
This year’s Engineers Week Finale Banquet will be held as a virtual event on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 5pm. The banquet will be followed by a virtual after party.
Please register by Friday, February 12, 2021. All registered attendees will receive a registration goodie bag and will have a chance to win a GRAND PRIZE and other door prizes! Visit the registration page for more details.
Order of the Engineer Ceremony
Please join us for this year’s Engineers Week Virtual Order of the Engineer Ceremony on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 12pm! A link to the virtual event will be provided to all registered attendees. See Registration for more details. The last day for registration is Friday, February 12.
This is a separate event from the Engineers Week Finale Banquet and participation in the banquet is not required to join the Order of the Engineer Ceremony. NSPE-NV asks that participants register so they can pick up their ring and event package at the UNLV pick-up location.
The Order of the Engineer was initiated in the US to foster a spirit of pride and responsibility in the engineering profession, to bridge the gap between training and experience, and to present to the public a visible symbol identifying the engineer. The Order is not a membership organization; there are never any meetings to attend or recurring dues to pay. Instead, the Order fosters a unity of purpose and the honoring of one’s pledge to the engineering profession.
All attendees that register by Friday, February 12, 2021 will be included in the inductee video and will be able to invite friends and family at no additional cost to cheer them on during the ceremony.
Date: January 27, 2021
On January 19, the NSPE-NV Southern Nevada Chapter sponsored a virtual meeting to put a spotlight on Southwest Gas’ first renewable natural gas project in southern Nevada. The supply of renewable natural gas (RNG) is sufficient to meet energy demands, according to a 2019 study, and by 2040 RNG has the potential to play a substantial role in significantly lowering emissions, with costs that are lower or competitive with other emission reduction approaches.
Tori Dickey and Ryan Stemmerik served as webinar presenters to share their knowledge and experience working on the RNG project.
Tori Dickey has worked in the natural gas industry at Southwest Gas for 6 years starting as an intern until graduation in 2016, then she became an engineer. She works in the New Business department designing infrastructure for new developments. Dickey graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering.
For the last 7 years, Ryan Stemmerik has worked exclusively in the energy industry, ranging from electric generation to natural gas. He worked as an intern for NV Energy at their Tracy Generating Station in northern Nevada and then transitioned to residential solar electric generation after college to work for SolarCity in Las Vegas. In 2016, Stemmerik was hired at Southwest Gas starting as a New Business engineer and then transitioned to a System Planning engineer, focusing on gas infrastructure planning and system improvements. He graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.
Date: January 27, 2021
High-speed rail company Brightline West hopes to begin construction of its $8.4 billion, 168-mile California–Las Vegas high speed line in the second quarter of 2021.
Work on the project was originally scheduled to begin at the end of 2020, but was delayed due to a failure to source buyers for $2.4 billion of private bonds, according to a Railway Age article.
The bonds, approved for the project by the states of California ($600 million) and Nevada ($200 million), were later repurposed to support affordable housing projects in the two states.
Date: December 18, 2020
On December 17, NSPE-NV joined other professional societies during the APWA ReNVision Virtual Conference to hear from charitable organizations involved in the Stuff the Stocking Drive.
Members were challenged to support a $7500 fundraising goal to help the APWA Southern NV Branch support The Just One Project, a local non-profit providing fresh food and necessities to food insecure neighborhoods.
The event also provided an opportunity for some holiday fun with a game of jeopardy and contests for the best Zoom background and ugly sweater.
Thanks to our sponsor for this event!
Thanks to our virtual platform (zoom) sponsor!
Stay tuned for information on the next virtual meeting for the New Year!
Date: December 18, 2020
What: Mobile Food Market - Distribute food from a semi-truck into trunks or backseats of vehicles.
When: Saturday, January 23, 2021
Where: Hyde Park Middle School (900 Hinson St, Las Vegas, NV 89107) at 8:45 a.m.–11:30 a.m. or Clark High School (4291 Pennwood Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89102) at 7:45 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Gloves will be provided. The Just One Project is asking volunteers to bring their own masks...they can be homemade.
If you can volunteer, please RSVP which location you can be at to brook.demitropoulos@jacobs.com or 702-336-9896.
Date: December 18, 2020
In November, Jorge Cervantes, P.E., began serving as City Manager of Las Vegas. Cervantes joined the City of Las Vegas in 1998 as a project manager and was promoted to assistant city traffic engineer in 1999. He was later promoted to city engineer/deputy director in 2006, director of Public Works in 2008 and appointed executive director of community development in 2014.
Cervantes earned a bachelor of science degree in Civil Engineering and a master’s of business administration from the University of Texas at El Paso. He is a licensed engineer in Nevada and Texas, and was one of the first in Nevada to be registered as a professional traffic operations engineer.
Since taking on this role, Cervantes has filled key positions for the city government. Chief Operations and Development Officer Tom Perrigo; Executive Director of Community Development Mike Janssen, who is a licensed professional engineer; Fire & Rescue Chief Jeff Buchanan; and Department of Public Safety Chief Louis Molina.
Watch a KTVN news interview with Jorge Cervantes.
Also read a Las Vegas Review-Journal article highlighting Jorge Cervantes' new role.
Date: December 18, 2020
Economists say that characteristic of the industry’s post-recession rebound may prove crucial as the state weathers the effects of the pandemic. As of October, construction made up 7.3% of the state’s jobs, or roughly 1 in 14, according to a Nevada Independent article.
“This is not an overinflated sector,” said David Schmidt, chief economist for the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation. “It’s actually at a pretty normal place right now.”
Construction was one of the few industries exempt from coronavirus-related shutdowns this year. Governor Steve Sisolak declared construction essential alongside other sectors such as health care, public transportation, and mail delivery. That move alone helped spare the building trades from some of the mass layoffs experienced by service-providing industries.
Read more.
Date: December 18, 2020
Planned large-scale investment of up to $3 billion has been announced in Reno, Nevada. TerraScale, a Southern California-based clean infrastructure design and development company, is planning this ambitious green technology project.
The Energos Reno development is centered around two key strategies, according to a Think Geoenergy article. The first is the development of critical infrastructure (roadways and utilities) that meet the demands of digital data/technology, manufacturing, distribution and warehousing for the US supply chain. The second is the development of renewable power by expanding the existing solar and geothermal sources; along with, future development of other potential technologies under discussion.
Read more.
Also read this Nevada Appeal report on the Energos Reno project.
Date: December 18, 2020
Nevada’s highway system ranks 27th in the nation in overall cost-effectiveness and condition, according to the Annual Highway Report by the Reason Foundation. This is no change from the previous report, where Nevada also ranked 27th overall.
In safety and performance categories, Nevada ranks 27th in overall fatality rate, 2nd in structurally deficient bridges, 18th in traffic congestion, 24th in urban interstate pavement condition, and 20th in rural interstate pavement condition. On spending, Nevada ranks 30th in total spending per mile and 33rd in capital and bridge costs per mile.
“To improve in the rankings, Nevada needs to decrease its administrative spending per mile and rural fatality rate. Nevada is in the bottom 10 states for both categories. Compared to neighboring states, the report finds Nevada’s overall highway performance is better than California (ranks 43rd) and Oregon (28th), but worse than Idaho (5th),” said Baruch Feigenbaum, lead author of the Annual Highway Report and senior managing director of transportation policy at Reason Foundation. “Nevada is doing worse than comparable states like Arizona (23rd) and Utah (ranks 17th).”
The foundation’s Annual Highway Report measures the condition and cost-effectiveness of state-controlled highways in 13 categories, including pavement condition, traffic congestion, structurally deficient bridges, traffic fatalities, and spending (capital, maintenance, administrative, overall) per mile.
Access the full report.
Date: December 18, 2020
NSPE’s Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today’s top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Job
Principal Engineer
Incline Village, NV
Project Manager (Civil Engineering)
Reno, NV
Project Civil Engineer
Reno, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
NSPE-NV is calling on members to volunteer for a Mobile Food Market distribution project on Saturday, December 12 from 7:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Schofield Middle School (8625 S Spencer St, Las Vegas, NV 89123).
Download a map. (PDF)
If you can volunteer, please RSVP to brook.demitropoulos@jacobs.com or 702.336.9896
Thank you so much for your service to the community! NSPE-NV STEAM Outreach Committee
The deadline to submit donations is December 17, 2020.
DOWNDLOAD A FLYER. (PDF)
Help APWA Southern NV Branch support THE JUST ONE PROJECT, a local non-profit providing
fresh food and necessities to food insecure neighborhoods.
In partnership with ASCE, NSPE, ITE, CMAA
Fundraising goal = $7500
Community need is greater ~ please be more generous than ever!
Accepting credit card donations via the QR code above or checks.
Checks can be delivered to Gina Venglass, City of Las Vegas City Hall, payable to APWA.
Questions? Email gvenglass@lasvegasnevada.gov
Tracer Study and Hydrodynamic Modeling in an Alpine Lake
Date: November 18, 2020
On November 17, the NSPE-NV Southern Nevada Chapter hosted a free virtual lunch and learn event with a presentation by Dave James, Ph.D., P.E., on “Tracer Study and Hydrodynamic Modeling in an Alpine Lake.”
Dave James is an associate professor of civil engineering at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of California, Davis in 1975 and his MS and PhD degrees environmental engineering science from the California Institute of Technology in 1983 and 1989, respectively.
James has been licensed as a civil engineer (Nevada) since 1998. He formerly served as President of the Nevada Society of Professional Engineers, Chair of the Nevada Professional Engineers Foundation, and as Western Region Director for NSPE (2010-2012). He currently serves as the liaison for NSPE Link 154 of the Order of the Engineer, on the Nevada PE Foundation Board of Trustees ,and is a member of the Nevada Society’s Outreach Committee.
On the UNLV faculty since 1990, James teaches courses in senior design, wastewater treatment and air pollution control. His areas of research expertise comprise acquisition and interpretation of field data in water quality and dust emissions.
Date: November 18, 2020
NSPE-NV is calling on members to volunteer for a Mobile Food Market distribution project on Saturday, December 12 from 8:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Schofield Middle School (8625 S Spencer St, Las Vegas, NV 89123).
This activity is just one of many coordinated by the NSPE-NV STEM Outreach Committee to support the Just One Project’s “Pop Up & Give” program designed to bring groceries into food deserts and food insecure neighborhoods across Southern Nevada. The program has provided 300,000+lbs of groceries to 20,000+ people. Since its founding in 2014, the Just One Project has become one of the fastest-growing nonprofit organizations in southern Nevada with a mission to connect the community through giving back.
NSPE-NV members participated in a distribution of goods hosted at Orr Middle School on October 24 and at Schofield Middle School on November 14.
Date: November 18, 2020
To accommodate as many pencil-and-paper examinees as safely as possible, NCEES has added a regional exam administration on January 26, 2021, for PE Civil examinees only. Las Vegas, Nevada is a host city.
Registration for the regional PE Civil exam administration opened on November 1, 2020, and closes on December 14, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. EST. The exam will be administered in Las Vegas and the following cities: Phoenix, AZ; Pomona, CA; Denver, CO; Groton, CT; Orlando, FL; Topeka, KS; Louisville, KY; Minneapolis, MN; Raleigh, NC; Cleveland, OH; Salem, OR; Houston, TX; Salt Lake City, UT; and Seattle, WA.
Additional cities may be added. Visit the NCEES website for details.
Date: November 18, 2020
Reno, Nevada was recognized as a 2020 Top STEM City for being a community showcasing exceptional dedication to science, technology, engineering, and math education and careers.
The data science team at Insurify (an insurance quotes comparison site) analyzed both proprietary and publicly accessible data to determine the top STEM city in each state. The team identified cities with the highest proportion of residents in STEM-based careers and compiled data from Niche on the colleges and graduate schools with the best programs in STEM, as well as the best cities for women in tech.
Read more.
Date: November 18, 2020
Construction on a long-anticipated high-speed train between Las Vegas and Southern California that was to begin this year has been delayed indefinitely because of financing issues, according to a Las Vegas Review-Journal article.
Brightline West announced it is delaying a $2.4 billion bond offering that would have funded the initial work on the planned $8 billion project. Brightline tied the delay to market conditions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and this being an election year. Nevertheless, Brightline insisted there’s still investor interest in the project and it will continue to move forward.
Read more.
Date: November 2, 2020
What: Mobile Food Market - Distribute food into trunks or backseats of vehicles
When: Saturday, November 14, 2020 & Saturday, December 12, 2020 from 8:45 am – 11:00 am
Where: Schofield Middle School (8625 S Spencer St, Las Vegas, NV 89123).
Gloves will be provided. Just One Project is asking volunteers to bring their own masks.
If you can volunteer, please RSVP to Brook Demitropoulos or call Brook at 702.336.9896
This activity is just one of many coordinated by the NSPE-NV STEM Outreach Committee in conjunction with the Just One Project. Since its founding in 2014, the Just One Project has become one of the fastest-growing nonprofit organizations in southern Nevada with a mission to connect the community through giving back.
Learn more about outreach opportunities.
Date: October 28, 2020
Pursuit underway at the Nevada statehouse would revise a vehicle fee and tax revenue rule in place for the past 80 years. The Nevada Constitution mandates that any license fee, registration fee, or excise tax on gas or diesel be used solely for the construction, maintenance and repair of public highways.
As reported on the Land Line website, the Legislature’s Interim Committee on Energy has voted to move forward a plan that would open the door to diverting from roads a portion of vehicle taxes and fees. Specifically, the group authorized continued pursuit of a plan to amend the constitution to allow affected revenue to be applied for all “transportation infrastructure.”
The directors of multiple state agencies including the DOT and Department of Motor Vehicles submitted a letter to the committee on sustainable transportation funding. “The long-term solution should, to the greatest extent possible, address the needs of all transportation mode users, including bicyclists, pedestrians and transit users,” the letter said, “as well as promote social and user equity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and establish sustainability of the fund.”
Read more.
Date: October 28, 2020
Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) introduced legislation that would help small and medium businesses hire and train mid-career professionals in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
The bill would provide $50 million in grants to those employers competing for STEM workers, prioritizing businesses looking to hire women, Black and Latino workers and individuals from rural areas, as reported in The Hill. The measure would fund “returnships," or midcareer internships, for workers who have either left the STEM workforce, or who want to transition into the field.
Read more.
Date: October 28, 2020
This fall, the College of Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno, launched a Ph.D. in engineering education. The cross-disciplinary program will prepare graduates for research, academic and other demanding careers in engineering education from pre-kindergarten classrooms to workforce development.
For College of Engineering Dean Manos Maragakis, the recent approval of the program by the Nevada System of Higher Education is the culmination of a vision many years in the making, according to a Nevada Today article.
Read more.
Date: October 28, 2020
NSPE’s Job Board is your one-stop resource for professional engineering employment. Whether you are on the hunt for your next career move or looking for today’s top engineering leaders and talent, you will find it here.
NSPE provides the tools PEs need to keep current in the profession and advance their careers.
Featured Jobs
Director of Public Works
Incline Village, NV
Director – Process Engineering
Las Vegas, NV
Find more job openings or reach the right employees on the NSPE Job Board.
The Nevada Department of Transportation and The Associated General Contractors of Nevada (AGC) are pleased to announce the roll out of our revitalized and updated partnering program “Partnering with a Purpose”. We would like to invite you to join us for an hour-long virtual roll out at either 6:00 AM or 1:30PM Thursday, August 19, 2020. We encourage all available staff to “tune in” and learn about our updated tools and resources.
There is no charge for participation and registration can be found at: www.ndotpartnering.com
Clark County Water Reclamation District (District) is seeking qualifications from qualified firms. The District awards professional services contracts using a qualifications-based selection process called the Statement of Qualifications (SOQ). All categories approved at the December 18, 2018 Board meeting will remain active through December 31, 2021.
This solicitation is strictly for the addition of two specific categories: 1. Independent Cost Estimator 2. Scheduling and Claims Analysis
Interested firms may apply by submitting an SOQ during the open period: August 11, 2020 - September 10, 2020. SOQ information is posted online at: https://www.cleanwaterteam.com/Pages/Statement-of-Qualifications---(SOQ).aspx
If the Applicant has a question regarding the SOQ process, please contact Rosaura Gallagher, Associate Engineer, rgallagher@cleanwaterteam.com, (702) 668-8248. SOQ's will be accepted at the Clark County Water Reclamation District Customer Service Counter, 5857 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, Nevada 89122, on or before September 10, 2020 at 10:00 AM based on the time clock at the Clark County Water Reclamation District Customer Service Counter. Late SOQ's will not be accepted.
Volunteers needed at Clark High School
What: Mobile Food Market - Distribute food from a semi-truck into trunks or backseats of vehicles
When: Saturday, July 25, 2020, 7:00 am – 9:30 am
Where: Clark High School (4291 Pennwood Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89102)
Gloves will be provided. Just One Project is asking volunteers to bring their own masks...they can be homemade.
Please use the parking lot on "Arville" just north of "Sirius" right next to the performing arts center. The parking lot where the food is distributed is a short walk from this parking lot.
If you can volunteer, please RSVP to brook.demitropoulos@jacobs.com or 702.336.9896
This volunteer opportunity was setup by Claire Kohatsu with the Las Vegas Basketball Center
Please follow them on Instagram: @lasvegasbasketball
What: Mobile Food Market - Distribute food from a semi-truck into trunks or backseats of vehicles
When: Saturday, June 27, 2020, 7:45 am – 10:30 am
Where: Orr Middle School (1562 E Katie Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89119)
Gloves will be provided. Just One Project is asking volunteers to bring their own masks...they can be homemade.
If you can volunteer, please RSVP to brook.demitropoulos@jacobs.com or 702.336.9896
What: Mobile Food Market - Distribute food from a semi-truck into trunks or backseats of vehicles
When: Saturday, May 30, 2020
Where: Clark High School (4291 Pennwood Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89102) 7:00 am – 9:30 am
or
Or Middle School (1562 E Katie Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89119) 8:00 am – 10:30 am
Gloves provided but Just One Project is asking volunteers to bring their own masks...they can be homemade.
If you can volunteer, please RSVP and specify which location.
RSVP to Brook at brook.demitropoulos@jacobs.com or 702.336.9896
The Nevada Society was honored to have NSPE President David Martini, P.E., F.NSPE, and his wife Julie as its special guests in February over the weekend of Engineers Week. President Martini attended the DiscoverE Introduce a Kid to Engineering event at University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and the National E-Week Finale Dinner hosted by NSPE-NV. He spoke at the Order of the Engineer ceremony that was part of the evening.
The National E-Week Finale Dinner on Saturday, February 22 took place at the Orleans Hotel and Casino with a 1920s theme. The ceremonies included the Order of the Engineer oath; a hosted cocktail hour; dinner; and the presentation of scholarships, awards, door prizes, and an escape room puzzle. WTS hosted the after-party. Attendees numbered 330!
Congratulations to the award winners from NSPE-NV:
- Engineer of the Year – Craig Sisco, P.E., F.NSPE, Southwest Gas Corporation
- Young Engineer of the Year – Trisha Nakaura, EI, Atkins
- Ramona Lesley Dedicated Service Award – Molly Marks, UNLV
- Project of the Year – Starr Avenue Interchange – NDOT
Access additional info and photos.
From July 18–22 in Las Vegas, at Caesars Palace, NSPE members enjoyed an exciting week full of exceptional education programs, speakers, and great networking.
NEVADA SOCIETY MEMBERS WITH ELVIS
DAVID JAMES, P.E., F.NSPE; DOUG BLATCHFORD, P.E.;
DOUG BLATCHFORD, P.E. AND ELVIS
IMAGES COURTESY OF NSPE AND CHRISTIE'S PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIOS