2025 NCEES Annual Meeting Recap: Key Highlights and Outcomes
The 2025 Annual Meeting of the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) took place August 19–22 at the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel in Louisiana, bordering the historic French Quarter. Georgia’s delegation included five board members—Chairman Taylor Wright, Bill Womack, Trent Turk, Jim Mattison, and Julie Busbee—along with staff members Executive Director Darren Mickler, Deputy Director Eric Lacefield, and Inspector Kenneth Austin.
This meeting was the first for new NCEES CEO Davey McDowell, who succeeds retired CEO David Cox and brings years of experience as Deputy CEO.
Professional Development and Networking
The event opened with professional development hours for engineers and surveyors, plus a Member Board Administrators (MBA) training session. Attendees enjoyed a kickoff party at Mardi Gras World, featuring parade artifacts and previews, followed by a buffet at River City Venues.
Business Sessions and Leadership Changes
Wednesday’s business meeting included professional forums for engineers, surveyors, and MBAs. Samuel Wilson, DBA, P.E. (District of Columbia), was elected 2025–26 President-Elect and will serve as President in 2026–27. Discussions included the potential addition of an MBA representative to the Board of Directors (referred for further study) and a possible title change from Member Board Administrator to Member Board Executive for greater clarity.
Addressing AI and Unlicensed Practice
Thursday’s sessions focused on significant issues, notably the use of artificial intelligence in engineering and surveying deliverables and the risks posed by unlicensed individuals offering services online, often through platforms like Fiverr. The MBA committee will continue to monitor these developments.
Committee Highlights and Policy Updates
- Finances: Proposed budget changes reduce designated reserves, increasing funding for the NCEES Foundation.
- Licensure: New position statement on experience records for licensure applicants; clarified references and verifications; new rubric for categorizing experience.
- Examination Policy: Amendments to exam development processes, including a requirement that 50% of committee members have exam development experience.
- Member Board Administrators: Proposal to add “home rule” to Continuing Professional Competency (CPC) requirements, supporting multi-jurisdictional licensees.
- Legislative Guidelines: Revisions to Model Law and Rules, including recognition of the ETAC/ABET pathway to licensure.
- Bylaws: Comprehensive review and proposed amendments following legal counsel’s input.
Looking Ahead
The meeting concluded with the installation of the 2025–26 Board of Directors and remarks from President-Elect Elizabeth Beckett Johnston, P.E., outlining her vision for the coming year. For complete details, see the 2025 NCEES Action Items and Conference Reports.
