February 23, 2010

CONTACT: Ronald W. Brenke, PE
Executive Director, ACEC of Michigan
(517) 332-2066

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LANSING -- The American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan (ACEC/M) recently presented its highest honor, the 2010 “Firm of the Year” Award, to Fleis & VandenBrink Engineering, headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The award was presented during the Annual Engineering & Surveying Excellence Awards Banquet held February 20 at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. This is the only award program instituted to recognize ACEC/M member firms for leadership in professional organizations and community involvement.  Recognition is based on the firm’s contributions to the success of ACEC/M, its efforts to advance the engineering profession, and the firm’s efforts to improve the quality of life for Michigan communities. “Fleis & VandenBrink Engineering is a successful and growing firm,” said ACEC/M Executive Director, Ronald W. Brenke, PE. “They are very active in ACEC and in their community and have a reputation of doing quality work.”

Larry Fleis, PE and Steve VandenBrink, PE formed the company in 1993 and offer a wide range of engineering services with offices throughout Michigan and Indiana.  Mr. Fleis serves on the ACEC/M Board of Directors and is currently leading the Council’s strategic initiative to become the valued resource to state & local government, the legislature, and to other groups on all engineering-related issues.  Mr. Fleis also assists the Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) coalition by providing free advice and assistance to owners on valued procedures for selecting design professionals.

Fleis & VandenBrink is active in various professional groups sharing expertise on a variety of subjects through presentations and written material. The firm strongly supports empowering their employees and provides continual professional development opportunities through training, education and participation in professional societies.

Being active in civic and community activities is not only encouraged but required in order to become considered as an Associate or Principal of the firm.   Sponsoring an “Adopt-a-Highway” program, leading the Chemical/Environmental Engineering Day, and serving on city councils, planning commissions and church boards are ways that Fleis & VandenBrink has given back to their community.

The American Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan is the voice of Michigan's engineering industry. Council members – numbering more than 100 firms throughout the state – are engaged in a wide range of engineering, architectural and surveying projects that propel the state's economy, and enhance and safeguard Michigan's quality of life. These works allow people to drink clean water, enjoy a healthy life, take advantage of new technologies, and travel safely and efficiently. The Council's mission is to contribute to Michigan's prosperity and welfare by advancing the business interests of member firms. For more information, contact the ACEC/M office at 517-332-2066 or visit the website at www.acecmi.org.

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For more information Contact: ACEC