Southern Research Station engineer recognized as Federal Engineer of the Year
February 26, 2019
Asheville, NC —
Each year, the National Society of Professional Engineers recognizes finalists for their prestigious Federal Engineer of the Year award. For 40 years, this award has been the only award recognizing engineers employed by the federal government.
On February 22, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., Jason Anderson, assistant station engineer at the Southern Research Station, was recognized as the Federal Engineer of the Year.
“Being nominated for such award is a great honor in and of itself, and actually being selected is beyond words,” Anderson said.
Anderson’s work includes working with partners to create a state-of-the-art insect quarantine laboratory to research safer and more cost-effective biological controls for invasive insects. He was also recognized for developing and improving data management processes that have saved the Forest Service an estimated $750,000 over the last five years.
“Jason is one of the most technologically proficient engineers in the agency, and he is very deserving of this award,” said Mark McDonough, Southern Research Station engineer. “What amazes me the most, is that his motivation for learning is not for personal accomplishment but rather to make the agency’s engineering program more successful.”
Despite the accolades, Anderson says the credit goes to his teammates for their help and to the Forest Service for the opportunity to serve.
“This award is for a great group of dedicated colleagues that contribute every day in countless ways to make amazing things happen,” Anderson said. “I am deeply appreciative for the opportunities to pursue such interesting and impactful work with the Southern Research Station and the Forest Service.”