“This is a national honor that recognizes leaders who have made significant contributions to the consulting engineering profession, and Jerry has certainly done that,” said Wes Christmas, PE, MBA, President & CEO of Clark Dietz. “It reflects years of showing up, advocating for our profession, and investing time in other people’s success.”
Jerry Payonk, PE, Chairman of the Board at Clark Dietz, has spent years helping move the engineering industry forward. That dedication earned him a place in the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) College of Fellows.
Jerry Payonk, PE, receives his medal marking his induction into the ACEC College of Fellows.
Jerry was inducted during the 2026 ACEC National Fall Conference, held October 25–28 in Phoenix, Arizona. For our team at Clark Dietz, it’s a proud moment and an opportunity to celebrate someone whose leadership, mentorship, and service have meant so much to our firm and the broader engineering community.
Service Worth Celebrating
The ACEC College of Fellows brings together distinguished engineering leaders recognized within ACEC and their communities. Through scholarships, mentoring, educational opportunities, and recognition programs, the College celebrates engineering accomplishments and helps create opportunities for the next generation.
Congratulations to all of the 2026 ACEC College of Fellows inductees on this recognition of their leadership, service, and contributions.
That purpose aligns closely with Jerry’s approach to service. Alongside his responsibilities at Clark Dietz, he has devoted years to advocating for engineering firms and helping others develop as leaders.
Jerry Payonk’s name, portrait, and role at Clark Dietz appear on screen during the College of Fellows induction ceremony.
Much of that work happens through ongoing commitments: participating in industry conversations, building relationships, sharing experience, and making time for others. Those efforts may receive less attention than individual milestones, but their impact reaches across firms and career stages.
“Jerry has brought that same commitment to Clark Dietz through his leadership and mentorship,” Wes said.
Seven Years of Commitment to ACEC Illinois
Jerry’s service to ACEC Illinois is one example of that dedication. From July 2019 through June 2026, he served on the organization’s Board of Directors, including a term as its 63rd Chair.
Over those seven years, Jerry worked alongside fellow industry leaders to advance advocacy efforts, strengthen collaboration, and support initiatives benefiting member firms and the communities they serve.
Jerry Payonk, PE, pictured at center, wears his College of Fellows medal alongside fellow honorees.
That work has practical implications for the people behind engineering projects. Public policy affects how firms operate, workforce initiatives help connect graduates with career opportunities, and continuing education equips engineers to meet changing demands. Jerry’s involvement reflects his willingness to help address those shared challenges.
Earlier this year, ACEC Illinois recognized him with its 2026 Distinguished Service Award and honored his service as Chair. His induction into the College of Fellows brings national recognition to that sustained investment of time, experience, and leadership.
Investing in the People Who Come Next
Jerry’s contributions also extend to the people he supports along the way. His dedication to mentorship and willingness to share his experience reflect a belief that engineering’s future depends on helping others succeed. At Clark Dietz, that commitment connects directly to our core value of investing in people.
As Chairman of the Board, Jerry helps guide Clark Dietz’s long-term vision. His involvement with ACEC extends that perspective beyond the firm, bringing people together to exchange ideas and work toward shared goals.
“I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside Jerry on both company and ACEC matters, and I’ve seen how much he cares about our firm and the profession,” Wes said.
Jerry’s induction is an opportunity to celebrate both an individual achievement and the years of service behind it. We are excited to see his contributions recognized and grateful for the perspective and generosity he continues to share.
Congratulations, Jerry, on this well-deserved honor!
Jerry Payonk, PE, joins fellow inductees on stage during the 2026 ACEC College of Fellows recognition in Phoenix.
Learn More
Read ACEC’s announcement of the 2026 College of Fellows inductees and learn about Jerry’s recent honors from ACEC Illinois. For a closer look at his career, leadership experiences, and meaningful projects, listen to Jerry’s conversation on the Engineering Works podcast.
