Georgia Society of Professional Engineers

Hazardous Radon in Homes & Schools: Testing & Mitigation - GSPE Atlanta Metro Chapter – December Dinner Meeting
2025-12-08 08:00 - 17:00 UTC
Hazardous Radon in Homes & Schools: Testing & Mitigation
Monday, December 8, 2025 • 6:00 PMPiccadilly Cafeteria, 2000 Crescent Centre Blvd., Tucker, GA
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can accumulate in homes, schools, and workplaces—especially in regions with significant granite deposits, like north Georgia. A recent UGA study found that over 16% of homes tested in Fulton and DeKalb counties had elevated radon levels, posing long-term cancer risks.
At our December meeting, Mike Leggett, Operations Manager at Georgia Radon Defense, will discuss:
Radon health risks and how it enters buildings
Radon testing and measurement practices
Mitigation strategies for existing homes and schools
Radon-resistant construction for new buildings
Groundwater and indoor air quality considerations
This meeting is free, open to the public, and qualifies for 1 PDH.
About the Speaker – Mike Leggett
Mike Leggett is a National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) Certified Radon Measurement Professional and Certified Radon Mitigation Specialist. He holds multiple inspector certifications and teaches radon mitigation workshops throughout the region. Mike serves as Operations Manager for Georgia Radon Defense, a leading provider of radon testing and mitigation solutions in north Georgia.
Meeting Schedule
6:00 PM – In-person networking
7:00 PM – Dinner and presentation
No registration fee. Everyone is welcome—engineers, aspiring PEs, students, and the general public.
Contact
Jesus Sandoval, P.E. – jesussandoval@comcast.net
Jim McGarrah, P.E. – jmcgarrah@bellsouth.net
Additional Resources
GSPE: www.gspe.org
Atlanta Metro Chapter: https://gspe.org/atlmetrochapter
GSPE YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/GSPEng
Georgia Radon Map (UGA): https://radon.uga.edu

Rome–Floyd County development activities - Northwest Georgia GSPE Chapter — December Meeting
2025-12-09 17:30 - 20:00 UTC | Sam’s Burger Deli, 3268 Martha Berry Highway, Rome, GA, 30165, United States
Robert Spencer Hogg, President/CEO of the Rome–Floyd County Development Authority (RFCDA), will present an update on Rome–Floyd County development activities.
When
Tuesday, December 9, 2025
5:30 PM – Meal & Social
6:00 PM – Program

Where
Sam’s Burger Deli3268 Martha Berry HighwayRome, GA 30161
A PDH will be awarded.The chapter will also nominate and elect officers for 2026.

MATHCOUNTS Update
Save the Date!The Northwest Georgia Chapter MATHCOUNTS Competition will be held on:📅 Friday, February 20, 2026More details coming soon.

About the Rome–Floyd County Development Authority (RFCDA)
Established in 1962 by amendment to the Georgia Constitution, the Rome-Floyd County Development Authority includes seven members:
Mayor of Rome
Chairman of the Floyd County Board of Commissioners
Chairman of the Rome-Floyd Chamber of Commerce
Chairman of the Greater Rome Existing Industrial Association
Additional appointed members
RFCDA’s mission is to assist, promote, establish, and develop new industries and to expand existing industry, agriculture, trade, and commerce within Floyd County.
Learn more: www.romefloyd.com

2025 Chapter Officers
President: Jeff HamptonVice President: Zohar EdelkindSecretary: David PoolTreasurer: Stan PerryProgram Chair: John PillsburyLocal MATHCOUNTS Coordinator: Laura BuchananState Director: (vacant or not provided)

Get Involved
Please invite colleagues, spouses, friends, or fellow engineers to join us at our meetings.Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month (September–May).
To add someone to the chapter email list, contact:📧 jeff@harcrowelectric.com
Chapter Fee: $20/yearUsed to support speakers’ meals and local expenses. Please see Treasurer Stan Perry.

Potential 2025–2026 Meeting Topics & Tours
Tour of the new Rome Middle School
Georgia Power: Renewable Energy Types & Mixes
Water Treatment Facility Enhancements (PFA Removal)
Tour of the new SK Battery facility
Tour of Georgia Power’s Plant Hammond (BESS)
Tour of Floyd County’s Fire Prevention & Training Center
Project Updates from Current Members

Big Problems, Big Data, & Responsible AI in Engineering Practice - Atlanta Metro
2026-01-12 18:00 - 20:00 UTC | Piccadilly Cafeteria, Tucker, 2000 Crescent Centre Blvd, Tucker, GA, 30084, United States
Atlanta Metro Chapter MeetingGeorgia Society of Professional Engineers (GSPE)
Date: Monday, January 12, 2026Time: 6:00 PM – Networking, 7:00 PM – Presentation
Location:Piccadilly Cafeteria2000 Crescent Centre Blvd.Tucker, GA 30084
Cost: Free to attend(Food and beverages are available for individual purchase.)
PDH: 1 Professional Development Hour (PDH)

Presentation Overview
Engineering problems are growing in scale and complexity, driven by large datasets, advanced computational tools, and the increasing use of artificial intelligence. Engineers are being asked to apply data-driven systems responsibly while maintaining sound professional judgment.
This presentation will explore how big data, quantitative models, and AI can be used as engineering assistants—supporting routine and repetitive tasks—so engineers can focus on higher-level problem formulation, risk assessment, and decision-making. The discussion emphasizes responsible, real-world application of AI in professional engineering practice.

Speaker
Suresh MarruDirector, Georgia Tech Center for Artificial Intelligence in Science and Engineering (ARTISAN)Research Professor, Georgia Tech College of Computing
Dr. Marru is a senior research leader in data-driven scientific computing, distributed systems, and cyberinfrastructure, with more than two decades of experience designing and operating large-scale computational platforms used across academia, government, and industry.

Who Should Attend

Licensed Professional Engineers

Engineers pursuing licensure

Engineering students

Public decision makers

Members of the public interested in technology and public welfare

Additional Information

GSPE Atlanta Metro Chapter meetings are held on the second Monday of each month, September through June.

This presentation will be archived for later viewing on the GSPE YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/GSPEng

In-person attendance and archived viewing are free.

Northwest Georgia Chapter - Tax Law Changes for Professionals
2026-01-13 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Sam’s Burger Deli, 3268 Martha Berry Highway, Rome, GA, 30165, United States
Northwest Georgia Chapter Meeting – Jan 13
Understanding Upcoming Tax Law Changes for Professionals
Join the Northwest Georgia Chapter of GSPE for our first meeting of 2026 featuring Kirk Jarrett, CPA/ABV, CVA, who will provide an informative session on upcoming Tax Law Changes for Professionals.
Whether you’re an engineer running your own firm, a consultant, or just want to stay ahead of financial impacts in the new year, this session will highlight key updates, planning considerations, and how these changes may affect licensed professionals.
Details:
📅 Tuesday, January 13, 2026
🕠 5:30 PM – Meal & Social
🕕 6:00 PM – Program Begins
📍 Sam’s Burger Deli
3268 Martha Berry Highway, Rome, GA 30165
🎓 1 PDH credit will be awarded
No RSVP is required—just come ready to learn and connect with fellow engineers over a casual dinner.
Open to PEs, engineering students, and guests.
Questions? Contact:
📧 Jeff Hampton, P.E. – jeff@harcrowelectric.com

GSPE Atlanta Metro Practitioner Session with Damon Nix
2026-02-09 18:00 - 20:00 UTC | Piccadilly Cafeteria, Tucker, 2000 Crescent Centre Blvd, Tucker, GA, 30084, United States
📅 Monday, February 9, 2026🕕 6:00–8:00 PM📍 Piccadilly Cafeteria, Tucker, GA🎟️ Free | 1 PDH Available
Join the Atlanta Metro Chapter of the Georgia Society of Professional Engineers (GSPE) for a practitioner-focused session featuring Damon Nix, senior leader with the Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership (GaMEP) at Georgia Institute of Technology.
This session will draw on Damon’s extensive experience supporting manufacturers across Georgia, with a focus on real-world challenges, practical improvement efforts, and lessons learned from working directly with industrial organizations.
What to Expect

Practical insights from the front lines of Georgia manufacturing

Discussion of improvement efforts related to operations, safety, energy, and sustainability

Lessons learned from working with manufacturers of all sizes

Time for questions and discussion

About the Speaker
Damon Nix brings more than 20 years of experience in industrial engineering, manufacturing performance improvement, and safety leadership. He currently serves as Group Manager for Energy & Sustainability Services and Manager of New Program Development at GaMEP. Throughout his career, he has led high-impact programs designed to strengthen operations, reduce risk, and improve long-term competitiveness for manufacturers across the state.
About the Meeting
GSPE Atlanta Metro meetings are open to professional engineers, aspiring PEs, students, and members of the public. Meetings begin with face-to-face networking at 6:00 PM, followed by dinner and the presentation. This session qualifies for one Professional Development Hour (PDH).📺 The presentation will also be archived for later viewing on the GSPE YouTube channel.

Northwest GA Chapter Meeting: Utility-Scale STATCOM Implementation at Southern Company
2026-02-10 17:30 - 19:30 UTC | Sam’s Burger Deli, 3268 Martha Berry Highway, Rome, GA, 30165, United States
Join us for our February chapter meeting featuring Philip Cheek, P.E., P&C Field Services Senior Engineer at Georgia Power Company,
who will present on the implementation of Southern Company’s first utility-scale STATCOM. This session will explore the engineering considerations, challenges, and real-world application of this major infrastructure project.
Date: Tuesday, February 10, 2026Schedule:• 5:30 PM – Meal & Social• 6:00 PM – Program
Location:Sam’s Burger Deli3268 Martha Berry HighwayRome, GA 30161
Speaker:Philip Cheek, P.E.
Professional Development Hours (PDH):PDH will be awarded.

GSPE Statewide Board Meeting
2026-02-11 11:30 - 12:30 UTC
Meet the 2026 Board
GSPE members are invited to attend our upcoming Statewide Board Meeting, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet the 2026 GSPE Board of Directors and hear updates on the work of the Society.
Board meetings provide insight into GSPE’s priorities, programs, and statewide initiatives. Members are welcome to attend as observers to stay informed, better understand how GSPE operates, and remain engaged with what’s happening across the organization.
Meeting Details
WhenWednesday, February 1111:30 AM – 12:30 PM
WhereZoomMembers should check their email from amanda@gspe.org for the Zoom registration link.
RSVPZoom registration is required.
While discussion and voting are reserved for Board members, all GSPE members are encouraged to attend and listen in. This is a great opportunity for members who are curious about GSPE leadership, governance, or future involvement at the state level.

GSPE at the Career Explosion for the 100 Black Men of North Metro Atlanta
2026-02-28 10:30 - 15:00 UTC | Gwinnett Technical College, 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, GA 30043, 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, GA, 30043, United States
GSPE to Exhibit at Engineers Week Career Explosion Event
The Georgia Society of Professional Engineers (GSPE) will be exhibiting at the Career Explosion event hosted by 100 Black Men of North Metro Atlanta in celebration of Engineers Week.
The event will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Gwinnett Technical College, located at 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway in Lawrenceville.
Designed for middle and high school students interested in engineering, the Career Explosion event focuses on mentorship, career awareness, and exposure to engineering pathways. GSPE’s presence supports its ongoing commitment to promoting the engineering profession and encouraging the next generation of engineers through outreach and education.
This event is part of the broader mission of the 100 Black Men of North Metro Atlanta to provide mentorship, education, and economic empowerment opportunities within the community.
Event Details
Host Organization: 100 Black Men of North Metro Atlanta, Inc.
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: Gwinnett Technical College, 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Audience: Middle and High School Students
Purpose: Engineers Week Career Exploration and Mentorship

2026 Georgia Engineering Awards
2026-03-06 18:00 - 22:00 UTC
Featuring the GSPE Engineer of the Year Awards
📅 Friday, March 6, 2026⏰ 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (ET)👔 Black-Tie Event
Experience an elegant evening of ingenuity and innovation at the 2026 Georgia Engineering Awards, where the Georgia Society of Professional Engineers (GSPE) will proudly present the Engineer of the Year Awards—the Society’s highest honors recognizing exceptional professional engineers across Georgia.
This prestigious black-tie gala brings together Georgia’s most accomplished engineers, industry leaders, and distinguished guests to celebrate excellence, leadership, and the profound impact engineering has on the state’s growth and infrastructure.

Honoring Engineering Excellence
At the heart of the evening is the presentation of the GSPE Engineer of the Year Awards, which recognize outstanding engineers, projects, organizations, and students whose work exemplifies technical excellence, leadership, service, and innovation. These awards highlight the individuals and teams shaping Georgia’s engineering future and advancing the profession.
2026 GSPE Award Recipients
One of this year’s Engineer of the Year recipients will also be recognized as the 2026 GSPE Engineer of the Year – Overall, to be announced during the awards gala.
Lifetime Achievement Award
William Womack, P.E.
Engineer of the Year
Robert H. Barnes, P.E., P.G., M.ASCE
Christopher E. Brazell, P.E., PLS
Cameron Coates, PhD, P.E.
Suzanne V. Cooler, P.E., CFM, MPA, M.ASCE
Guoming Lin, PhD, P.E., F.ASCE
Suleman Rana, MS, P.E.
Student Award Winners
Abriana Nyante, S.M., A.S.C.E.
Anastasia Morris
Engineering Employer Award Winners
Chatham County, Department of Engineering
Coleman Company, Inc.
Kimley-Horn
Engineering Organization Volunteer of the Year
Lauren Kilgore

Why Attend the Georgia Engineering Awards?
Celebrate ExcellenceHonor Georgia’s top engineers and transformative projects that set new standards for the profession and contribute to the state’s continued success.
Unparalleled NetworkingConnect with industry leaders, elected officials, public-sector executives, and key decision-makers from across Georgia in a refined and celebratory setting.
A Black-Tie Gala ExperienceEnjoy an unforgettable evening featuring a formal dinner, live music, and a post-awards reception designed to celebrate achievements in style.
Inspiration at Every TurnBe inspired by award recipients whose dedication, innovation, and leadership demonstrate the powerful role engineers play in shaping communities and improving lives.

Event Schedule
6:00 – 7:00 p.m. | Reception & VIP ReceptionBegin the evening with cocktails and networking among Georgia’s engineering and civic leaders. VIP guests and top sponsors enjoy access to an exclusive private reception.
7:00 – 9:00 p.m. | Georgia Engineering Awards & DinnerThe centerpiece of the evening, featuring dinner service and the presentation of the GSPE Engineer of the Year Awards and other distinguished honors.
9:00 – 10:00 p.m. | Post-Event ReceptionCelebrate the night’s honorees with music, conversation, and a festive afterparty as we toast to the future of engineering in Georgia.

Georgia MATHCOUNTS Foundation State Competition – March 9
2026-03-09 08:00 - 15:00 UTC
The Georgia MATHCOUNTS Foundation will host its State Competition on March 9, bringing together middle school students from across Georgia to showcase their problem-solving skills, teamwork, and passion for mathematics.
The MATHCOUNTS State Competition represents the culmination of months of preparation by students and educators and serves as a key step in advancing math confidence and critical thinking among Georgia’s future engineers, scientists, and innovators. Top-performing teams and individuals will earn the opportunity to advance to the national level.
The Georgia MATHCOUNTS Foundation relies on the support of volunteers to ensure a successful and inspiring experience for students. Volunteers are needed to assist with roles such as scoring, monitoring rounds, and supporting event logistics.
Volunteer Call to ActionIf you are interested in volunteering, please contact:📧 bettyjean@georgiamathcounts.org
Your time and expertise help make this event possible and directly support math education and STEM career pathways across Georgia.
