AEES Committees
AEES is committed to advancing the discipline of ecological engineering and strengthening the Society. One of the many ways members can become involved in the organization and help broaden its reach is by joining one of the society's seven committees. Each committee has a unique focus and is currently chaired by a long-standing member. Joining a committee at any time of the year is strongly encouraged. Please contact the Committee Chair if you are interested in joining or would like to receive more information.
Body of Knowledge Committee
In line with its charge to identify core areas of knowledge underpinning the practice of ecological engineering, the Body of Knowledge Committee has continued to pursue the development of ABET criteria for undergraduate ecological engineering programs as its primary, short-term goal. As a longer-term goal, the committee seeks to define knowledge areas to support the delineation of clear pathways to ecological engineering outside of an undergraduate engineering degree.
Community Initiatives Committee
Committee Chair:
Dr. Joey Smith, Ohio State University​
The Community Initiatives Committee guides and coordinates the activities of AEES in matters relating to the promotion of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in the practice and education of ecological engineering. The committee will work on initiatives that give AEES members tools to make both this technical society, and the wider communities we work with, more equitable, diverse, and inclusive, through justice-based actions.
Membership and Awards Committee
Committee Chair:
Dr. Michael Burchell, NC State University
The AEES Membership and Awards Committee's charge includes member relations, recruitment, retention, and membership awards. The Committee strives to strengthen the Society and our discipline by steadily increasing both our membership numbers, diversity, and developing ways to provide the most economical and beneficial experience for our members.
Early Career
Committee
Committee Chair:
Dr. Emily Nottingham Byers, University of Kentucky
The AEES Early Career Committee is dedicated to enhancing the value of membership for early career professionals in ecological engineering. Open to members with 10 years or less of professional experience following completion of their terminal degree, the committee supports the transition from student to professional membership with professional development and networking opportunities, and ensures early career voices are engaged across AEES leadership and initiatives.
Conference Planning
Committee
Committee Chair:
Dr. Eric Roy, University of Vermont
The AEES Conference Committee works with the organizing conference hosts to create innovative and inclusive programming for upcoming conferences, helps to streamline meeting planning from one year to the next, and assists with the logistics of conference planning in regards to programming, keynote speakers, awards, student engagement, field trips, and bringing new ideas to the program.
Student Chapter Committee
Committee Chair:
Megan Kramer, University of South Florida
The AEES Student Committee supports AEES Student Chapters, providing resources and engagement for their development. For the upcoming year, the Committee will design a document to assist institutions in creating and organizing new AEES Student Chapters. The Committee is also working on an online discussion board where students can share opportunities and highlight their research.
Communications Committee
Committee Chair:
Brittany Santore, NC State University
The AEES Communications Committee works to elevate the Society’s visibility and impact. By developing thoughtful and cohesive branding, enhancing digital platforms, creating compelling content, and strengthening inter-committee communications, the committee aims to promote sustainable ecological engineering practices, inspire innovation, and amplify AEES's mission to a broader audience. Serving on the committee offers members a chance to shape the Society’s voice, engage diverse audiences, gain valuable skills and share their expertise while leaving a lasting impact on the field of ecological engineering.