Engineering Innovation and Leadership Took Center Stage at the 2026 Michigan Infrastructure Conference

On May 7, 2026, approximately 200 infrastructure professionals gathered at the Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center in East Lansing for the Michigan Infrastructure Conference, co-hosted by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan (ACEC/Michigan) and the Michigan Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). This annual event once again served as a statewide forum for engineers, public officials, and industry leaders to explore the challenges, opportunities, and innovations shaping Michigan’s infrastructure future.

Addressing Today’s Challenges with Tomorrow’s Tools

The one-day conference featured a full slate of educational breakout sessions, providing attendees with opportunities to earn professional development hours while engaging with timely topics impacting Michigan’s built environment. Sessions highlighted practical solutions, emerging technologies, project delivery strategies, infrastructure investment, and the evolving needs of Michigan communities.

Throughout the day, presenters and attendees explored how the engineering profession continues to adapt to increasing project complexity, workforce demands, funding challenges, and rapidly advancing technologies. The sessions reflected the importance of collaboration, innovation, and cross-disciplinary problem-solving in delivering resilient, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure.

Leadership, Influence, and the Pressure to Perform

The conference opened with a powerful morning keynote from Bill Burke, who presented “Leading From the Pocket” Burke challenged attendees to consider how leaders show up during moments of pressure, uncertainty, and high expectations. His message resonated with engineering and infrastructure professionals who are often called upon to make critical decisions in complex environments where communities, clients, and public systems depend on their expertise.

Burke’s keynote emphasized the importance of clarity, presence, and influence when it matters most—reminding attendees that leadership is not only about technical expertise, but also about the ability to guide teams, build trust, and remain steady under pressure.

Investing in What Moves Michigan Forward

The afternoon keynote was delivered by State Budget Office Director Jennifer Flood, who presented “Investing in What Moves Michigan Forward.” Director Flood provided insight into the state budget process and the role of infrastructure investment in supporting Michigan’s economy, communities, and long-term competitiveness.

Her remarks underscored the importance of strategic investment in the systems that connect people, move goods, support development, and improve quality of life across the state. The presentation offered attendees a timely perspective on how infrastructure priorities fit within broader state policy and budget discussions.

Collaboration and Recognition

The conference also celebrated industry achievements during a joint ACEC/Michigan and ASCE awards presentation, recognizing outstanding engineering accomplishments and leadership. Exhibitors connected with attendees throughout the day, and the conference app helped participants navigate sessions, access event information, and engage with the program.

Sponsors also played an important role in supporting the event, including Platinum Sponsor Wade Trim and Gold Sponsors Advanced Drainage Systems, Benesch, Spicer Group, Inc., Wightman, and WSP Michigan Inc. Their support helped make the conference possible and reinforced the value of partnership within Michigan’s engineering community.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 Michigan Infrastructure Conference highlighted the importance of collaboration between public and private partners, a central theme for both ACEC/Michigan and ASCE. From leadership and workforce development to infrastructure investment and technical innovation, the event demonstrated the engineering community’s continued commitment to meeting the needs of today while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.

For more information on upcoming professional development events or ways to engage with ACEC/Michigan, visit: www.acecmi.org.