Sarah Fowlkes of New Braunfels, Texas, urges professionals to take simple, practical steps to expand access and opportunity for small businesses in the architecture and engineering sector.
NEW BRAUNFELS, TX, May 12, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Sarah Fowlkes, Client Account Manager and President of the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) San Antonio Post, is raising awareness about the critical role small businesses play in the architecture and engineering (A/E) industry—and the need for stronger, everyday support across the sector.
Drawing on years of leadership and volunteer work, Fowlkes is encouraging professionals, organizations, and communities to take a more active role in creating access, building relationships, and supporting long-term growth for small businesses.
"Small businesses are a big part of this industry," Fowlkes says. "But they don't always have the same access. That's where we all have a role to play."
Why Small Business Support Matters in the A/E Industry
Small businesses are a key driver of innovation and economic growth. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses make up 99.9% of all U.S. businesses and employ nearly half of the private workforce. In federal contracting, small businesses receive billions in awards each year, yet many still face barriers to entry and visibility.
In the A/E industry, these challenges can limit competition, slow innovation, and reduce opportunities for emerging firms.
"There's a lot of opportunity to bring more people into the conversation," Fowlkes explains. "When we expand access, we strengthen the entire industry."
Turning Ideas Into Action Through Industry Involvement
Fowlkes has spent nearly a decade volunteering with SAME, where she has helped develop initiatives that connect small businesses with federal programs and industry leaders. Her work focuses on creating real opportunities—not just conversations.
"It's not about one event or one meeting," she says. "It's about building relationships over time."
Through her leadership roles, including Small Business Chair and now President of the San Antonio Post, she has supported programs that increase visibility and engagement for small firms.
"SAME is where I've been able to take ideas and turn them into real programs," Fowlkes adds. "People show up because they care, and that's what makes it work."
What Individuals Can Do to Support Small Businesses
Fowlkes emphasizes that supporting small businesses does not require large-scale change. Instead, it starts with consistent, everyday actions.
"You can have a great idea," she says. "But if you don't follow through, it doesn't mean much."
She encourages professionals in the A/E industry and beyond to:
Make intentional connections with small business partners and peers
Attend local industry and nonprofit events that support collaboration
Share knowledge and opportunities within their networks
Create space at the table for smaller firms in conversations and projects
"A lot of success comes from just being there and doing the work," Fowlkes says. "That's how you build something that lasts."
A Call for Long-Term Mindset and Collaboration
Fowlkes believes that long-term thinking is key to meaningful change. By focusing on relationships and consistent engagement, professionals can help create a more inclusive and resilient industry.
"In this space, relationships matter," she explains. "You need to understand the mission and support it in a real way."
Her message is simple: progress happens when more people get involved.
"There's always room to improve how we work together," Fowlkes says. "That's where the real progress happens."
Call to Action
Fowlkes encourages individuals to take one small step this month—whether that is attending a local industry event, reaching out to a small business, or getting involved in a professional organization like SAME.
"Start where you are," she says. "Show up, stay consistent, and look for ways to help others grow. That's how change happens."
About Sarah Fowlkes
Sarah Fowlkes is an Client Account Manager, where she supports Army and Air Force clients. She also serves as President of the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) San Antonio Post. With a background in business development and a strong commitment to volunteer service, she focuses on strengthening industry relationships and supporting small business engagement within the A/E sector.
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