Professional development programs help engineering organisations prepare employees for expanded responsibilities and leadership roles. Mackenzie Simmons, a civil engineering specialist at STV, has been selected to participate in the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program organised by the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Tennessee.
The programme brings together engineering professionals from across Tennessee to develop leadership capabilities through mentorship, peer collaboration and structured learning. Participants also gain opportunities to exchange perspectives with professionals from different firms and engineering disciplines.
Candidates are selected through a competitive application process that considers their experience, leadership potential and participation in the engineering industry.
Based in Franklin, Tennessee, Simmons participates in the American Society of Civil Engineers, the American Society of Highway Engineers and the Institute of Transportation Engineers.
She also takes part in STV’s early-career professional programme, which connects employees across the organisation through networking, learning and mentoring activities.
Participation in the ACEC Tennessee programme adds another professional development opportunity, enabling Simmons to engage with engineering peers and build skills relevant to future leadership responsibilities.
The selection highlights the role of structured professional development in supporting career progression within engineering organisations. Mentorship, industry networking and collaboration can help emerging professionals strengthen their management and communication skills alongside their technical experience.
For engineering consultancies and construction industry employers, leadership programmes provide a framework for developing talent and preparing professionals to take on greater responsibility. Simmons’ participation also connects STV with a wider network of engineering professionals across Tennessee.
Source: STV Inc.
