We’re thrilled to announce Andrew Walton, Ohio Transportation Principal at Jacobs as the second recipient of the ACEC Ohio Early Career Professional National Conference Scholarship Award! Andrew represented ACEC Ohio at the ACEC Annual Convention & Legislative Summit, held May 4-6 in Washington, D.C.

This year was the second time ACEC Ohio offered a scholarship that supports a Rising Leader Graduate by providing full funding to attend National’s Spring convention.

As a graduate of ACEC Ohio’s Rising Leader program and current Chair of ACEC Ohio’s Government Affairs Committee, Andrew viewed the scholarship as an opportunity to deepen his involvement with ACEC, strengthen his leadership skills, and gain a greater understanding of the advocacy and decision-making processes that shape the profession.

Andrew said he applied for the scholarship to gain a broader understanding of the engineering industry beyond day-to-day project delivery. “I wanted to better understand the broader policy, advocacy, and business forces that shape what we do,” he shared. “This felt like a unique opportunity to hear directly from industry leaders, connect with peers from across the country, and see firsthand how ACEC represents us in Washington, D.C.”

One of the highlights of the trip was participating in Capitol Hill visits alongside fellow ACEC Ohio members. Although members of Congress were unexpectedly out of town during the visit, the group still met with legislative staff to discuss the importance of strong transportation and water infrastructure programs.

“The experience reminded me that we all have a voice in shaping the future of our profession,” Andrew said. “It pushed me to think beyond my day-to-day responsibilities and consider how I can contribute more broadly in the industry.”

ACEC Ohio continues to strengthen early-career engagement across the industry by expanding opportunities for involvement and leadership development, including this scholarship program and the upcoming Young Professional of the Year Award, which will be presented in January 2027.