Since 1986, ACEC-SC engineering firms have entered their most innovative projects and studies in ACEC-SC's annual Engineering Excellence Awards program (EEA)—"the Academy Awards of the engineering industry"—which honors the year's most outstanding engineering accomplishments.
EEA entries are accepted into one of 12 project categories: studies, research, and consulting engineering services; building/technology systems; structural systems; surveying and mapping technology; environmental; waste and storm water; water resources; transportation; special projects; small projects; energy; and industrial and manufacturing processes and facilities.
A distinguished panel of judges is assembled to critique and rank the submissions for engineering excellence. Projects from throughout the state are rated on the basis of uniqueness and innovative applications; future value to the engineering profession; perception by the public; social, economic, and sustainable development considerations; complexity; and successful fulfillment of client/owner's needs, including schedule and budget.
One Palmetto Award winner will be chosen as the overall best engineering project from a South Carolina firm.
The winners are recognized at ACEC-SC's Annual Engineering Excellence Awards Gala.
For questions contact Adam at (803) 771-4271 or email [email protected].
2026 EEA Notice of Intent Form: Download here.
2026 EEA Full Submission Packet: Coming soon.
Important Dates:
October 10, 2025: EEA Notices of Intent Due at ACEC-SC HQ
November 14, 2025: Project Materials and Final Submissions Due at ACEC-SC HQ
February 18, 2026: ACEC-SC EEA Gala
2025 Palmetto Award Winner
Davis & Floyd, "Medical District Drainage Tunnel Extension"
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ACEC-SC Salutes Industry Leaders and Rising Talent at 2025 Awards
Columbia, S.C. (June 6, 2025) – The American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina (ACEC-SC) proudly honored two outstanding professionals during the 2025 South Carolina Engineering Conference & Trade Show, held earlier this month in Myrtle Beach.
This awards program, established in 2023, recognizes the exceptional achievements and leadership of individuals who continue to advance South Carolina’s engineering industry and strengthen their communities. Building on its commitment to spotlighting individual excellence within its member firms, ACEC-SC presented two signature honors at the event: the Young Professional of the Year Award and the Engineer of the Year Award.
The 2025 ACEC-SC Young Professional of the Year was awarded to Derek Hutton, PE, CFM, Senior Hydraulic Engineer at CHA Consulting in Columbia. A graduate of Clemson University, Hutton has distinguished himself early in his career through a blend of technical expertise, civic leadership and mentorship. He holds professional engineering licenses in four states and plays a vital role in key infrastructure projects, coordinating efforts between state and county partners.
Beyond his day-to-day contributions, Hutton participates in the ACEC-SC Future Leaders program and is deeply involved in industry organizations such as ASCE, the Association of Floodplain Managers, and the SC Association of Hazard Mitigation. He also serves as co-chair of the City of Cayce’s Standard Technical Codes Board of Appeals.
The 2025 ACEC-SC Engineer of the Year is Daniel Atkinson, PE, Regional Transportation Director at Holt Consulting Company. Originally from Mullins, S.C., and a graduate of The Citadel, Atkinson began his career at the LPA Group and later held key roles at Michael Baker International. At Holt, he oversees surface transportation operations across the Carolinas and Florida and leads the firm’s design-build pursuits.
Atkinson has made lasting contributions to ACEC-SC and the broader engineering community through his leadership on the ACEC-SC/SCDOT Roadway Subcommittee, service on the Emerging Leaders Board, and current role on the ACEC-SC Board of Directors. He actively mentors young engineers and volunteers his time as a youth softball coach.
“In addition to being technically exceptional, this year’s honorees are also committed to their communities, their firms and the future of the profession,” said Adam Jones, Executive Director of ACEC-SC. “We’re proud to celebrate Derek and Daniel’s achievements, and we look forward to all they will continue to accomplish.”
ACEC-SC’s mission is to advocate, advance, and protect the business interests of engineering firms and the standards of the engineering profession in South Carolina. For more information, visit www.acecsc.org.