Schmitt graduates from ACEC Arkansas Emerging Leaders Program

Garver’s Aviation Illumination Leader James Schmitt, PE recently graduated from the Arkansas Engineering Emerging Leaders Program (EELP) — a selective leadership development program designed to prepare engineers to serve their profession, communities, and state through collaboration, service, and strategic leadership.

Schmitt’s selection for and completion of the program reflects not only his technical expertise, but also his commitment to continuous growth and to making a lasting, positive impact across Arkansas.

As a leader of Garver’s Aviation Illumination Team, Schmitt oversees the delivery of effective, innovative lighting designs while mentoring a growing team of engineers. He has over 14 years of experience on roadway lighting projects for DOTs, municipalities, airports, and the US Coast Guard.

“As a Professional Engineer, my responsibility goes beyond project delivery. I’m committed to creating safe, cost effective, and environmentally responsible solutions for Arkansas and mentoring the next generation of engineers—work strengthened through my involvement in this program,” said Schmitt. “I was honored to be a part of it.”

Giving back to his profession and community is an ongoing priority for Schmitt. He finds satisfaction in seeing the real world impact of the projects he designs but is equally committed to engaging with students to help them envision careers in engineering. He regularly volunteers at outreach events, works with middle and high school students to introduce engineering concepts, and hosts job shadowing opportunities to provide hands on exposure to the profession.