Civil Engineering Student Organization Lays Foundations for Fellow Engineers

Amidst the maze of Texas A&M University’s 5,200-acre campus, over 1,300 student organizations facilitate personal and professional growth for Aggies of all backgrounds. Among them is the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) J.T.L. McNew Chapter, which fosters both knowledge and connections for its members.

Founded in 1924, ASCE not only supplements classroom learning but also equips members with the tools needed for professional success. From freshmen exploring the facets of civil engineering through the Freshman Aspiring to be Civil Engineers (F.A.C.E.) program to graduates transitioning into professional roles, ASCE's impact resonates far beyond Aggieland.

The organization’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment now extends to the next generation of Aggies in ASCE with the ASCE J.T.L. McNew Chapter Endowed Scholarship.

Leading Change

The creators of this scholarship are former president Timothy Short ’23 and former treasurer and current president Kyle Frei ’25. Frei followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, both Aggies, knowing that Texas A&M was where he wanted to pursue his degree. For Short, it was not until he visited his brother in Aggieland and toured the Zachry Engineering Education Complex that he realized Texas A&M was the place for him.

Short and Frei, along with other members of the executive team, were looking for a direct way to impact civil engineering students at Texas A&M. Ultimately, the group decided to create a scholarship that benefits ASCE members.

Both Short and Frei are proud to leave a mark on Aggieland. 

“It is amazing to know that this scholarship will be available to help students every year, forever, thanks to the endowment process,” Frei said. 

Giving back to future members on a yearly basis is an opportunity not many organizations have. Thanks to everyone’s passion and commitment, this scholarship came to fruition. 

Although this chapter is one of 500 around the world, the Aggie Spirit makes it stand out from the rest. The leadership staff plays a key part in this, but the unique members are what makes this chapter so special. 

Blueprints for success

Blaine Hyland ’26, a civil engineering major from Crawford, Texas, is currently entering his second year of ASCE membership. Hyland is grateful for the leadership qualities and friendships he has gained from attending both F.A.C.E. and general meetings. Building relationships with like-minded people and discussing similar struggles and interests has made his transition to Aggieland easier.

“I was not very close with many civil engineering students before joining ASCE,” said Hyland. “However, after joining, even from the first F.A.C.E. meeting I attended as a freshman, I felt included and relieved that others shared the same experiences.” 

During his search for the right organization to join, Hyland was drawn to ASCE because of the welcoming demeanor of its officers and the alignment with his major. The vibrant activities within the chapter and diverse opportunities for participation further solidified his decision to join. ASCE appealed to his desire for involvement and growth within his field.

Hyland plans to maintain his membership after graduation for its many benefits. He plans to work in land development and sees ASCE as a source of continual learning and professional development.