2026 Georgia Engineers Summer Conference

Description

Join Us This Summer at

Grove Park Inn!

Join ACEC Georgia for the 2026 Georgia Engineers Summer Conference, our flagship event designed to deliver unparalleled business-focused content, foster valuable client relationships, and create meaningful connections within the engineering community. Held at the beautiful and historic Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC, this conference emphasizes the three "Cs"—Content, Clients, and Connections—ensuring participants gain actionable insights, professional development opportunities, and an expanded network of industry professionals.

Sponsor the 2026 Georgia Engineer's Summer Conference!

General Session Speakers:

• Judy Adler, PE, Director of Water Resources | GEFA
• Adam Bieber, Director of Business Development | LogicSpeak
• Ted Garnett, President | People Statements
• Louis Gump, Partner | TechCXO
• Meg Pirkle, Chief Engineer | GDOT
• Marty Smith, State Property Officer | GSFIC
• Roger Tutterow, Henssler Endowed Chair, Professor of Economics | Kennesaw State University
• Regina Young, PE, LEED AP, Principal | Jordan & Skala Engineers
• Lee Edmond, Senior Professional Liability Specialist | Brown & Brown

Confirmed VIPs:

• Joe Allen, Executive Director, Gwinnett Place CID
• Tony Carnell, Deputy Manager, Henry County Water & Sewer Authority 
• David Clark, Director, Fulton County Public Works
• Melanie Ford, Senior Director of Construction, Office of the University Architects, UGA
• Eric Lacefield, Executive Director, PELS
• Keri Lee, Engagement & Outreach Manager, MARTA
• Gifton Passley, LEED AP BD, C, PMP, Deputy Executive Director, GSFIC
• Amber Phillips, GDOT Office of Environmental Services
• Larry Prescott, Interim Chief Capital Officer, MARTA
• Meg Pirkle, Chief Engineer, GDOT
• Albert Shelby, Director of Program Delivery, GDOT
• Morgan Simmons-Gibson, AICP, Deputy Director, Cobb County DOT
• Marty Smith, State Property Officer, GSFIC
• Patricia Smith, Transit Program Manager, GDOT
• Tracy Styf, Executive Director, Town Center CID
• Hollis Terry IV, Director, Athens-Clarke County Public Utilities Department
• Chuck Warbington, City Manager, City of Lawrenceville   
• Megan Will, AICP, Director of Planning & Projects, Cumberland CID     

Why Attend?

• Best-in-Class Content: Access high-quality, business-oriented sessions that enhance your firm’s performance and your personal growth.
• Client Connections: Build relationships with current and potential clients while exploring teaming opportunities that drive business success.
• Professional Development: Earn valuable Professional Development Hours (PDHs) to advance your career while gaining practical knowledge and insights.

Who Should Attend?

• Engineering Professionals & Firm Leaders: Looking to sharpen their business acumen, connect with clients, and foster long-lasting professional relationships.
• Young Engineers: Seeking to grow their careers, learn industry best practices, and equip their firms with the tools to thrive in an evolving market.

GOLF INFORMATION:

Join us for a group outing on Wednesday, June 3rd at 7:20 AM at Grove Park Golf Course. You can add golf to your conference registration by selecting “Golfing at The Omni Grove Park Inn” under the Additional Items section. Cost is $128.

If you've already registered and would like to add golf, please contact Alia Sims at alia.sims@acecga.org for assistance.

We recommend bringing your own clubs if possible, but rental clubs will also be available at the golf shop. 

SPA INFORMATION:

The Grove Park Spa is widely recognized as one of the premier spa experiences in the country, offering a luxurious, serene retreat nestled in the mountains.

Spa reservations have been held as a courtesy for our attendees; however, appointments must be individually scheduled and paid for by each guest. To reserve your spot, please call the hotel reservations line at 828-252-2711 and reference the group name “ACEC Georgia Engineers.” All spa bookings must be made by May 4. After that date, held appointments will be released, and any remaining availability must be booked independently. Spots go quickly!

ACEC GEORGIA RUN CLUB:

Start your Thursday strong with the ACEC Georgia Morning Run on June 4 at 6:00 a.m., meeting in the lobby of Omni Grove Park Inn. Join fellow attendees for a scenic 3-mile run around the grounds of this iconic resort. Whether you’re chasing a fast pace, taking it easy, or somewhere in between, this is a welcoming, pace-friendly run where everyone is encouraged and no one gets left behind. Lace up, show up, and start the day with fresh air, movement, and great company.

NEW THIS YEAR: HAUNTED HALL OF EXHIBITORS 🎃

This year, the exhibit hall gets a spirited makeover with our all-new Haunted Hall of Exhibitors—a fun, family-friendly experience inspired by Asheville’s legendary ghost stories. As you explore the hall, enjoy booth-to-booth trick-or-treating, creative decorations, and plenty of surprises from our participating exhibitors. And with the famous Omni Grove Park Inn known for the tale of the mysterious Pink Lady, don’t be surprised if a little extra magic is in the air. Be sure to cast your eyes on every booth, because one exhibitor will earn bragging rights as our Best Decorated Booth winner. Costumes optional—fun encouraged.

The Venue & Location - Plan Your Stay!

Asheville for the Independent Explorer

A getaway that blends networking, nature, and nightlife

Perched atop Sunset Mountain, the Omni Grove Park Inn is more than just the conference venue—it’s a retreat for the senses. Built in 1913, the resort’s grand stone architecture and sweeping Blue Ridge Mountain views make it one of America’s most celebrated historic hotels. Between conference sessions, unwind in the award-winning subterranean spa, known for its underground grotto pools, waterfalls, and candlelit caverns.

When you’re ready to explore, Asheville is a city built for the curious and creative. The Downtown Arts District and River Arts District brim with local studios, street murals, and live music. For craft beer lovers, Asheville’s “Beer City USA” reputation is well-earned—over 50 breweries, from Wicked Weed to Highland Brewing, make it a tasting adventure.

Outdoor enthusiasts can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, hike Craggy Gardens, or chase panoramic views at Chimney Rock State Park. At sunset, return to the Grove Park’s terrace for cocktails with one of the best mountain views in the South.

Whether you’re here to connect with peers, indulge in luxury, or recharge in the mountains, Asheville offers the perfect blend of sophistication, creativity, and adventure.

Asheville for Families

A mountain escape filled with fun, discovery, and relaxation for all ages

For families joining the Georgia Engineers Summer Conference, the Omni Grove Park Inn makes it easy to mix business with memory-making. The resort offers spacious rooms, outdoor pools, tennis courts, and kid-friendly dining—all framed by spectacular mountain scenery. The historic Grovewood Village, just steps from the Inn, features art studios, a sculpture garden, and the Antique Car Museum, a hit with kids and adults alike.

Beyond the resort, Asheville overflows with family-friendly attractions. Visit the iconic Biltmore Estate, where children can tour the grand mansion, pet farm animals, and explore acres of gardens and trails. Discover the Asheville Museum of Science, the WNC Nature Center, or the Asheville Pinball Museum for indoor fun. Stroll the Botanical Gardens at Asheville, picnic by the French Broad River, or ride the Asheville Trolley Tour to see the city in comfort.

Dining is easy for families, with everything from wood-fired pizza at White Duck Taco Shop to classic Southern comfort food at Tupelo Honey Café.

Whether your crew prefers hiking and exploring or relaxing poolside while you attend sessions, Asheville and the Grove Park Inn offer a welcoming balance of excitement and serenity—ensuring everyone leaves with stories to tell.

Refund Policy:

If you need to cancel your registration, you may request a full refund up until May 13th at 11:59 PM. To request a refund, simply email us at info@acecga.org. Please note that after May 13th, we will no longer be able to issue refunds. Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to seeing you at the conference.