Local communities are increasingly forced to deal with challenges presented by natural resource management, biodiversity, climate change, and other pressing issues that benefit from scientific expertise. However, scientists are often not trained to navigate local decision-making processes or provided with the tools to translate their scientific expertise and collaborate with local policymakers and community leaders. In this workshop, co-hosted by Engineers and Scientists Acting Locally and the Ecological Society of America, we will provide the resources to help scientists and engineers bridge that gap. Attendees will have the opportunity to dive into case studies of scientists and engineers engaging locally across all career stages. Attendees will also receive information and hands-on practice with step-by-step guides for activities such as delivering public comments and joining a local board or commission, with the opportunity to begin identifying opportunities in their own communities.