The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), founded in 1852, is the oldest national engineering society in the United States. ASCE was formed to enhance the quality of life through the advancement of professional knowledge and by improving the practice of civil engineering. ASCE currently has over 120,000 members including over 15,000 student members nation wide.

UAA's student chapter of ASCE has about 50 student participants. Membership in ASCE offers a unique experience by providing opportunities for students to develop lasting relationships with their peers and faculty as well as Anchorage engineering professionals. These professionals come to the student chapter meetings, held twice each month in the ANSEP building on campus, to offer insight into the latest trends and challenges in the working industry. These speakers provide valuable contacts for future employment opportunities.

Annually, the chapter participates in the regional competition with other northwestern schools for the best steel bridge and concrete canoe designs. UAA's ASCE chapter also provide students with opportunities to become involved in community service and to participate in events aimed at increasing public awareness of the civil engineering profession. Events during Engineers Week allow student to demonstrate engineering projects and principles while providing engineering related activities for grades school and high school students. All civil engineering students are welcome to participate in ASCE.

Friendships and professional contacts established through involvement with ASCE are important relationships that will carry over into professional interaction upon graduation. Not only does this membership enhance the education and experience at UAA, but by becoming involved in ASCE, students gain the important advantage of getting to know their future employers, clients, and coworkers.