In sincere appreciation of all the hard work of our past LHV ASCE Branch Presidents, especially the founder of the Branch, Mr. Richard Cassin, with honor and much enthusiasm I am looking forward to serving the Branch as its President for the 2008-2009 year.

William J. McCarthy, III

The Lower Hudson Valley Branch of the ASCE represents an important pipeline for our region's engineers to remain engaged in the industry's issues and trends. In 2008-2009, my goal as President is to advance our role in the engineering arena, through increased participation, collaboration with other professional societies and a streamlined organizational structure. However, let's not forget that without you, there is no LHV ASCE Branch, and as such I am looking forward to working with you to further our mission and remain on the cutting edge of the issues with which the engineering industry and society in general are faced.

In my capacity as Director of Business Development for McLaren Engineering Group, I am responsible for providing support to our technical divisions in generating and maintaining client relationships, preparing RFP Responses, and directing the firm's marketing strategies. As a multi-dimensional, state-of-the-art firm, McLaren challenges me to remain involved in all of the industry's facets. Through constant communication with public and private sector clients, attendance at project meetings, networking events, and the like, I understand the engineering environment, and am ready to help guide the Lower Hudson Valley Branch of the ASCE toward growth and enlightenment.

Let me expand upon some goals for the coming year. First and foremost, it is my intent to increase participation in monthly programs and ramp up recruitment. A greater number of members and more member involvement means a healthier, more active organization. Second, increasing collaboration with other professional societies such as the New York State Society of Professional Engineers (NYSSPE), AIA, IEEE, etc., would certainly help advance the professional interests of engineers and architects. Third, we are looking into organizing internal committees to assist with such matters as continuing education, hospitality, membership, and academic scholarships. And last – for now – is establishing a committee specifically for reviewing the infrastructure in our region, issuing a "report card" of the State's and local municipalities' plans for maintaining and improving the infrastructure.

And, of course, we can’t forget our monthly programs. Beginning in October, we will be holding a program – lecture, dinner meeting – each month thereafter, with a Holiday Party in early December or early January. All in all, it should be a very exciting year!

I am looking forward to the experience of spearheading our cause, and I value the support and input I've received thus far. Our industry is up against various challenges, and as the eyes and ears of our companies and clients, we need face these challenges by creating a forum for defining, addressing, and educating about them.

Thank you and let's have a great year! Let's join hands and make a difference.

William J. McCarthy, III
2008-2009 President - Lower Hudson Valley Branch