Consulting engineers play a pivotal role in shaping both the built and natural environments, significantly impacting society through ability and expertise in researching issues and designing innovative solutions. Their work spans structural, civil/transportation, mechanical-electrical, energy, water resources and environmental, geotechnical and surveying disciplines. Consulting engineering firms are led by at least one licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) in responsible charge.
PEs in structural engineering ensure the safety and stability of buildings, bridges and other infrastructures. They design frameworks that withstand natural forces, protecting communities from potential hazards. In civil and transportation engineering PEs develop efficient transportation systems, enhancing connectivity and reducing travel time, which boosts economic growth and improves quality of life. Mechanical-electrical PEs design and maintain systems that power our daily lives, from HVAC systems in buildings to electrical grids that provide reliable energy. Their work ensures comfort, safety, and sustainability in residential, commercial and industrial settings. In the energy sector, consulting engineers develop renewable energy solutions and improve energy efficiency, contributing to a sustainable future. Their innovations help reduce carbon footprints and promote the use of clean energy sources. In the realm of water resources and environmental engineering, PEs and scientists work to develop systems for water supply, wastewater treatment, and pollution control. Their efforts safeguard public health and preserve natural ecosystems, ensuring clean water and a healthy environment for future generations. Geotechnical PEs analyze soil and rock properties to design foundations and earthworks that support structures and prevent landslides. Their expertise is crucial in constructing safe and resilient infrastructures. PLSs provide precise measurements and mapping of land, which are essential for planning and development. Their work supports property boundaries, construction projects and land use planning, assisting in both accuracy and legal compliance.
Overall, consulting engineers are instrumental in creating safe, efficient and sustainable environments while enhancing the public’s quality of life and fostering economic development. To profile and analyze performance in the consulting engineering and design services industry (A/E Services), the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) Research Institute began commissioning an industry impact studies in 2020. The most recent report from this study, Economic Assessment of the Engineering + Design Services Industry, was released in October 2024 with the following key findings for Colorado:
· $22.5B Contributed to GDP
· $3.7B Federal Taxes Collected
· $1.7B State & Local Taxes Collected
· 206,200 Jobs Supported
· $19.7B Total Wages Supported
To read the complete report, including statistics for each state and the U.S. overall, visit www.acec.org/research-institute.
Editorial Note: This article was originally written by American Council of Engineering Companies of Colorado for publication in the Feb. 21, 2025, issue of Denver Business Journal.
