Essayons Club
Essayons Club - The Professional Writing Program for Army Engineers
A platform for military engineers to share insights, shape the future, and contribute to the profession.
Originally established in 1868. Revitalized for Today’s Engineers.
Why the Essayons Writing Club Exists
For over 150 years, the Essayons Writing Club has been the premier space for Army Engineers to challenge ideas, document experiences, and contribute to professional dialogue.
The original club was founded in 1868 by MAJ Henry Abbot at Willets Point, NY, as a way for engineers to present papers on improving doctrine, tactics, and equipment. Today, we continue that legacy by encouraging engineers to write about the challenges and innovations shaping the future of military engineering.
Why Participate?
- Recognize excellence in military engineering thought leadership
- Connect with the Engineer Regiment and industry professionals
- Honor the past and shape the future of Army Engineering
- Preserve knowledge for the next generation
2024 Essayons Club Topic
Human-Machine Integration and Robotic Autonomy in Future Engineer Operations
How will robotics and AI shape the future of engineer operations? What challenges and opportunities exist?
Submission Requirements
- Length: 1,500–2,500 words
- Format: MS Word (.docx)
- Citations: Follow journalistic guidelines
- Enhancements: Photos, graphs, and illustrations encouraged
2024 Submission Deadline has passed
Awards and Recognition
Winning writers receive:
- $500 (Outstanding) – Up to 3 awards
- $250 (Superior) – Up to 3 awards
- Publication in Army Engineer Magazine
2024 Winners will be announced in Early 2025
How will the papers be evaluated and judged?
Articles will be comparatively judged by a panel of senior Army Engineer leaders on how well authors have clearly identified issues requiring solutions relevant to Engineers or the Army in general, how effectively detailed and feasible solutions to the problems identified are presented, and the level of expository skill the author demonstrates in developing a well-organized article using professional standards of grammar, usage, critical thinking, and original insights.
The History of the Essayons Writing Club]
From Willets Point to Today – A Legacy of Thought Leadership
The Essayons Writing Club builds on a long tradition of Army Engineers shaping doctrine through writing. Originally founded in 1868 by MAJ Henry Abbot, it provided engineers a space to challenge ideas, propose solutions, and influence military operations.
Writing has always been a cornerstone of Army Engineering. From the early days of Fort Willets Point to today’s modern operations, engineers have documented their challenges and breakthroughs—creating a legacy of professional excellence.
Get Involved
Interested in submitting? Review the guidelines and submit your paper today.
Not a writer? Share this opportunity with fellow engineers!
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