Senior Utilities Engineer – Civils​/Structural Water & Wastewater

The Current Landscape:
What We Know  Labor and Union Policies  The Trump administration’s approach to labor relations has historically leaned toward pro-business stances. This includes potential changes in:

National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Policies:

The NLRB’s leadership is expected to reflect pro-business views, which may lead to changes in labor laws and union rights (Source).These changes could affect unionized land surveyors, particularly those employed by larger firms or in the public sector.

Fact:
According to the NLRB annual report, there was a 15% decrease in union-led negotiations in 2024 compared to 2016, reflecting a broader trend of diminishing union influence.

Union Influence:

Despite outreach to union workers during campaigns, policies might aim to limit union power. This includes rolling back regulations supporting collective bargaining (Source).Fact:
Membership in trade unions dropped by 8% during the last administration, with union members comprising only 10.3% of the workforce in 2024 (Source).Regulatory Adjustments  One of the administration’s hallmarks has been deregulation, which could extend to professional licensing and environmental policies:

Licensing Standards:

Deregulatory efforts may prompt states to revise licensing requirements. While this could simplify entry into the profession, it might also raise concerns about maintaining high standards.

Fact:
In 2023, 60% of states reviewed their licensing requirements in light of federal recommendations to reduce occupational licensing barriers.

Environmental Policy:

Changes to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations could influence land use and surveying practices (Source).Fact:
The EPA reported a 40% reduction in regulatory filings related to environmental assessments from 2018 to 2024.Union Membership Trends )Potential Impacts on Land Surveyors  
1. Licensing Standards  Land surveyors may see adjustments in state-level licensing due to federal deregulation trends. These changes could:

Simplify Licensing Processes:
Making it easier for new entrants to join the profession.

Data Point: A survey by the National Conference of State Legislatures in 2023 found that 45% of states adopted more lenient licensing requirements for technical professions, including surveying.

Create Variability:
Lead to inconsistent standards across states, potentially complicating interstate work.
2. Union Representation  For unionized surveyors, changes could impact:

Collective Bargaining Rights:

Reduced union influence might weaken workers’ ability to negotiate wages and benefits.

Chart Idea: A bar graph comparing the number of unionized surveyors from 2016 to 2024, highlighting trends across states.

Job Security:

Altered labor laws could affect protections for union members.
3. Workload and Opportunities  Deregulation in environmental policies might:

Expand Opportunities:
Streamline processes for land development projects, increasing demand for surveyors.

Data Point: A report from the American Planning Association in 2024 estimated a 25% increase in expedited land development projects.

Raise Ethical Concerns:
Require vigilance to ensure projects meet ethical and environmental standards despite fewer regulations.

How Land Surveyors Can Prepare  
1. Stay Informed  Knowledge is power. Land surveyors should:

Monitor Policy Changes:

Follow updates from professional associations like the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS).Engage in Advocacy:

Participate in discussions to ensure surveyors’ voices are heard in policy-making.
2. Enhance Professional Skills  Staying competitive requires continual learning:

Pursue Continuing

Education:

Take courses that address evolving industry standards and technologies.

Fact:
Surveyors who completed advanced GIS training reported a 20% increase in job offers within six months.

Embrace Technology:

Learn to use advanced tools like GIS software and drones.
3. Strengthen Networks  A robust professional network can provide support and opportunities:

Join Communities:

Engage with platforms like Land Surveyors United to connect with peers.

Collaborate with Unions:

Even in challenging times, unions can offer valuable resources and…