Sargent & Lundy’s Jennifer Garfinkle will lend her extensive expertise in transmission line infrastructure to the American Society of Civil Engineers 2026 Report Card for Minnesota’s Infrastructure. ASCE’s national and state infrastructure report cards have become the industry standard, benchmarking the performance of America’s infrastructure systems for civic leaders and the public.
The report card, produced by ASCE’s Minnesota and Duluth Sections, comprehensively evaluates the state’s current infrastructure conditions across sectors like transportation, water, and energy. It gives letter grades to illustrate infrastructure health and identify areas that need improvement, complementing ASCE’s 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure with a clear, state-specific perspective.
Garfinkle, who has been with Sargent & Lundy since 2012, is part of the team writing the Energy section of the report.
“The Energy section focuses on critical energy infrastructure, including electrical and gas transmission, distribution, and substations,” Garfinkle explains. “Our goal is to find out where Minnesota stands and advocate for the investments needed to ensure the safety and reliability of these essential systems.”
Garfinkle responded to a direct call for volunteers from ASCE’s Minnesota Section to join the report card committee. “I hope to make a tangible difference in Minnesota’s energy infrastructure, specifically by convincing our government officials to prioritize and invest in this vital area,” she states.
Garfinkle’s role involves extensively researching Minnesota’s energy infrastructure, then collaboratively writing the report section. She also aims to present the findings directly to lawmakers and emphasize the urgency of infrastructure improvements. The report is scheduled for a Spring 2026 release.
Sargent & Lundy’s extensive experience in grid infrastructure makes Garfinkle’s involvement particularly impactful. “It’s crucial to have a foundational understanding of required infrastructure, coupled with the ability to identify when existing infrastructure has outlived its lifespan,” Garfinkle notes. “This knowledge helps us determine what infrastructure is still acceptable and where significant investment is needed.”
For Garfinkle, this opportunity extends beyond data collection; it’s about influencing policy. “I’m excited to directly inform our state government how they can help ensure Minnesota’s infrastructure aligns with current and future needs,” she shares.
When asked about the key message for decision-makers, Garfinkle is direct: “It’s paramount that our governments invest in our infrastructure for the safety and well-being of every citizen they represent.”