Tuesday, 27 March 2007

A Quick Fly in to Washington

I recently attended ASCE's 7th Annual Leadership Training in Government Relations Fly-in in Washington D.C. More than 130 ASCE members from across the country took part in what I felt was a very successful and productive leadership training. We focused in particular on the National Infrastructure Improvement Act, the Water Quality Financing Act of 2007 and the Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act. I had the opportunity to join my fellow ASCE members to visit congressional offices to promote these bills. More than 200 total visits were made. On Friday of that week, the Water Quality Financing Act of 2007 passed-just one example of how ASCE's effective lobbying on the Hill contribute to the passage of bills which are critical to the work of civil engineers.  

To coincide with this event, ASCE launched its Infrastructure Action Plan. ASCE has identified 11 legislative actions that Congress can take to raise the grades for America's failing infrastructure. While we can't expect changes to happen overnight, there are some small steps that can be taken by Congress to begin improving our infrastructure. I believe that this Action Plan is one of the critical tools that will lead the government to think long and hard about what action needs to be taken to help our failing infrastructure.  I encourage you to check out the Action Plan online at http://www.asce.org/reportcard/2005/actionplan07.cfm

What do you feel are some of the actions that need to be taken to help our failing infrastructure?

Posted by Bill at 10:10 AM in Infrastructure Crisis

Wednesday, 7 March 2007

Read Any Good Books Lately?

I attended the final leadership conference in Bellevue, Washington in late February.  During my time there, I had one final opportunity to give a talk to our members about the importance of good leadership skills, which I feel are critical for success. During my talk, one member asked if I knew of any good books on leadership.  I referred him to "The West Point Way of Leadership" by Larry R. Donnithorne. It is a simple, quick read, and straight-forward.

I gather that some students and younger members would read about leadership if they knew where to go. This book emphasizes the points I make about the value of leadership. Leadership is what separates winners and losers at the top of any career.  Everyone may have a good resume and experience, but vision and leadership skills are what make the difference.  Often, people who have reached the pinnacle of success have a broad spectrum of leadership styles.  Some people are exceptional at adapting their leadership style to fit various situations.  The ability to recognize what type of leader is needed to get a job done is a talent that will set you apart.

What books have inspired you to become a better leader?

Posted by Bill at 9:21 AM in Leadership/