Celebrating Engineers: The Backbone of Innovation and Transformation

By: Mike Innocenzo, EVP and COO, Exelon

Each February, we celebrate National Engineers Week, established by the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), where we recognize the technicians, outside the box thinkers and innovators who create and develop efficiencies in our lives. Celebrations like this remind me of the vital role engineers play in shaping our world—especially in the energy sector. Having started my career as an engineer, I’ve experienced how innovation, precision and problem-solving drive not only projects but also progress. Today, as Exelon’s COO, I take immense pride in the work our engineers do every day to ensure we deliver reliable, sustainable and affordable energy to Exelon’s 10.5 million customers.

The energy industry is undergoing a historic transformation. The push toward decarbonization, integrating renewable energy sources, and the modernizing of aging infrastructure demand engineering excellence. At Exelon, our engineers are at the forefront of these efforts, from designing smarter grids to implementing advanced technologies that enhance efficiency and resiliency. They’re not just solving problems—they’re creating solutions that define the future of energy.
 

But this transformation requires more than today’s efforts; it requires preparing for tomorrow. That’s why STEM education is critical. Inspiring young minds to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math will help us secure the next generation of innovators. Through programs such as our  STEM Academy and recently launched Boys to STEM Academy, partnerships with organizations like the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, and outreach to local colleges and universities, Exelon is committed to fostering curiosity and confidence in young people, ensuring a pipeline of talented engineers ready to tackle the challenges of the future.
 

National Engineers Week is a time to celebrate and thank engineers for their dedication and ingenuity. Their work doesn’t just power our homes and businesses; it powers progress. I salute my colleagues and encourage young dreamers to see engineering not just as a career, but as a way to shape a better world. Right now, we’re providing them opportunities to build the energy systems of tomorrow.