COMMITMENT
TO COMMUNITY
Community Engagement
Engineering is about more than math—it’s about mentorship, service, and building stronger communities.
At Mendrop, we believe the most important “infrastructure” we can build is a thriving, connected community. For more than 25 years, our commitment has extended far beyond project delivery. It’s reflected in the time we invest, the partnerships we build, and the people we support across Mississippi and the Gulf South.
We often say we strive to “fill the bucket”—giving back to the communities that have poured so much into us. That philosophy drives our involvement in education, service, professional organizations, and local initiatives that make a meaningful impact.
Investing in Students and the Future Workforce
A core part of our mission is inspiring the next generation of engineers, surveyors, and leaders. #TeamMendrop actively engages with students of all ages—from elementary classrooms to university lecture halls—helping them see that a rewarding career in engineering can start right here at home.
Our team regularly participates in STEM outreach and educational programs, including the Mississippi Science Festival, STEM Goes Red, and National Engineers Week (E-Week) activities across elementary and middle schools. During these events, we bring engineering to life through hands-on learning—whether it’s reading Rosie Revere, Engineer to younger students or demonstrating survey equipment like GPS systems, total stations, and LiDAR drones. We also support programs like MathCounts, volunteering annually to help grade competitions and encourage problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
We also maintain strong relationships with high schools and workforce development programs. #TeamMendrop has delivered presentations and career talks at schools such as Madison Central High School and Velma Jackson, as well as technical programs like the Holmes Community College Heavy Civil Construction Training Program. Through these efforts, we provide students with real-world insight into engineering and surveying careers while highlighting the skills needed to succeed. Additionally, Mendrop proudly sponsors “Student of the Month” recognition programs through the Madison County Business League & Foundation at local career and technical centers, celebrating high school students who are excelling and encouraging them to pursue future opportunities in technical fields.
At the collegiate level, we remain actively involved with universities across the state. Our team has served as guest lecturers at Jackson State University, spoken to Mississippi State University’s ASCE chapter, and participated in student symposiums and engineering events throughout the region.
Hands-On STEM Engagement
We believe the best way to inspire curiosity is through hands-on experiences. That’s why Mendrop invests heavily in interactive STEM engagement opportunities.
Through our partnership with WTS Mississippi, our team has volunteered at the Stewpot Community Center’s after-school program, led STEM Saturday activities, and helped distribute “Foil Boat” kits to students during the COVID-19 pandemic—ensuring learning continued even from a distance. These initiatives demonstrate our belief that when we invest in STEM, we aren’t just teaching students how to build bridges—we’re helping them build their own futures.
Our team also participates in community events like Touch-A-Truck Jackson, where we showcase our bathymetric survey boat, drones, and other technology. Events like these allow children and families to interact directly with the tools we use every day, sparking curiosity and excitement about engineering and surveying careers.
From river table demonstrations at the Mississippi Science Festival and Discovery Crew (University of South Alabama/Society of Military Engineers – Mobile Post) workshops to classroom visits and engineering talks, we are committed to making STEM education engaging, accessible, and inspiring.
Serving Our Communities
While education is a major focus, our commitment to community service extends far beyond the classroom.
Mendrop has supported Stewpot Community Services through volunteer efforts alongside industry partners, helping stock pantry shelves, organize supplies, and serve those in need. We also contribute year-round by collecting essential items such as shopping bags and egg cartons to support their ongoing needs.
We are proud to support additional organizations that serve our communities, including Shower Power Mississippi, where our team collects hygiene supplies to help restore dignity to individuals in need. We’ve also partnered with initiatives like Abraham’s Table, helping pack and distribute backpacks filled with food and essentials for those experiencing homelessness.
Our involvement extends to organizations like The Lily Pad Café—a not-for-profit restaurant focused on employing and training individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to give them the work skills and confidence necessary to obtain employment with other businesses. #TeamMendrop has contributed hands-on support to help improve and enhance the facility.
We also participate in events such as Pull for Panola and numerous charitable golf and skeet tournaments that benefit organizations like SAME, the Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce, the Panola Partnership, and the Gluckstadt-Madison Business Alliance.
Supporting Organizations and Leadership
#TeamMendrop is deeply involved in professional and civic organizations that strengthen our communities and industry. Our team members serve in leadership roles and actively contribute their time and expertise to organizations such as:
American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC)
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Junior League of Jackson (JLJ)
Madison County Business League & Foundation
Mississippi Engineering Society (MES)
Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce
WTS Mississippi
Local civic, church, and youth organizations
Through these roles, our team helps guide community initiatives, mentor young professionals, and advocate for the engineering industry. We also support youth athletics by sponsoring numerous baseball, softball, football, and soccer teams over the years—investing in teamwork, discipline, and community pride.A Culture of Giving Back
Community engagement at Mendrop isn’t limited to organized events—it’s part of our culture. Whether it’s volunteering at STEM events, mentoring students, supporting local nonprofits, or speaking at conferences and industry events, our team is committed to making a difference.
We are proud to contribute to conferences and speaking engagements across organizations such as the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Mississippi Engineering Society (MES), National Hydraulic Engineering Conference (NHEC), and American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), sharing knowledge and advancing the profession while staying connected to the communities we serve.
As we continue to grow, we remain grounded in the belief that success comes with responsibility. The communities that have supported us since 2001 are the same communities we are committed to serving every day.
At Mendrop, building infrastructure is what we do—but building community is who we are.