ACEC Research Institute Announces Inaugural Visionary Circle Donors  

Today, the ACEC Research Institute announced a new Visionary Circle giving tier and the inaugural group making an extraordinary investment in the future of the engineering industry with an annual $25,000 donation for the next four years.   

The inaugural Visionary Circle firms supporting the work of the ACEC Research Institute include:  

• ACEC Life/Health Trust  
• Autodesk  
• Benesch  
• CMT  
• Deltek  
• HDR  
• Kimley-Horn  
• Morrissey Goodale  
• RS&H  
• STV  
• Terracon  
• VHB  

“Research drives better decisions, stronger firms, and a more resilient engineering industry,” said Daphne Bryant, executive director of the ACEC Research Institute. “Through the Visionary Circle, these generous supporters are helping expand the Institute’s ability to deliver independent research, thought leadership, and data that benefit the entire profession.” 

The announcement comes as the ACEC Research Institute expands its giving program to better serve firms of all sizes and to recognize the most committed industry leaders.  

Visionary Circle donors gain exclusive access to the annual Visionary Leadership CEO Summit, a private forum to develop research strategies and engage directly with industry CEOs, economists, and analysts.   

These donors also receive an Executive Intelligence Briefing a private annual session with Institute leadership and research team, tailored for the firm’s leadership.  

“I’m proud to welcome these firms into the Visionary Circle,” said Steve Lefton, chair of the ACEC Research Institute. “Their support reflects a shared belief that the future of engineering depends on thoughtful research, bold ideas, and collaboration across our profession. Together we’re investing in solutions that will strengthen firms, clients, and communities alike.”  

Since its inception in 2020, the Institute has provided powerful resources to help the industry better understand the changes that are shaping the business of engineering and has developed tools that firms can use to stay ahead of the curve in a fast-paced environment.  

 Learn more about how to get involved with the Institute here. 

From its deep dives into topics like AI and workforce, to its yearslong, multilayered focus on the Firm of the Future, the Institute is providing the edge and the insight firms need to compete.  

The support the Institute receives makes that important work possible.