President's Message: Reflections on the 2024 Annual Conference
By Chris Hofheins, SEAU President
SEAU Members,
I want to reflect on the resounding success of our recently completed 12th Annual Conference. This year’s event marked significant milestones in our association's history. This year we had a record number of conference attendees, trade vendors and selection of presentation topics. We expanded both the physical size of our conference as well as the number of presentation offerings.
Several out of state presenters, vendors, and attendees came up to me and asked, “how do you all do it? This is one of the best conferences in the country!” I responded that our Programs Committee led by Dallin Pedersen and our Executive Director Nicole Eskelson deserve all the credit and a standing ovation!
I am proud of the diverse and inclusive programming that was offered throughout the conference. Our Programs Committee made a concerted effort to ensure that voices ranging from technical to self-help were heard and celebrated. SEAU is committed to creating a more equitable and supportive environment for all members of our community.
Our exhibition hall served as a hub of activity, featuring the latest advancements in structural engineering software, materials, and services. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with industry-leading vendors, explore modern technologies, and forge partnerships that will drive future projects forward.
I particularly enjoy the opportunity the conference provides for us to visit and connect with each other every year. I am so proud that our association fosters a spirit of inclusion and collaboration within our industry.
I also want to give a huge shout out to David Alter for winning the UEC Engineer of the Year award. I was fortunate to attend this year’s UEC banquet and witness David representing SEAU and being awarded this well-deserved recognition. As engineers in Utah, we should all be honored to have SEAU’s own represent the absolute best in engineering in the state of Utah. David, congratulations to you, your family, and your practice.
Thank you to everyone who participated in making this year's conference a resounding success. I look forward to seeing you all again next year as we continue to advance the profession of structural engineering.
Sincerely,
Chris Hofheins
President, Structural Engineers Association of Utah
