WKU News & Events

February 13, 2002

WKU Graduate Named Federal
Engineer Of TheYear

Bowling Green, Ky. - A 1995 geography graduate from Western Kentucky University has been named 2002 Federal Engineer of the Year by the National Society of Professional Engineers.

Kenneth W. McDonald, P.E., Ph.D., deputy director of Base Operations, 19th Theater Support Command, Camp Henry, Korea, received the award which recognizes outstanding engineers employed in the federal government.

McDonald oversees the work of more than 100 civil, mechanical, environmental and industrial engineers and monitors an annual budget of more than $192 million base operations funds for 82 different installations.

In 1999 McDonald received the Joint Service Commendation Medal for solving the critical fresh water shortage problem at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo. After contractors at Camp Bondsteel were unsuccessful, he successfully used geologic data and field techniques to locate three well sites, producing more than 530,000 gallons of water per day. This achievement was recognized by the theater command as one of the keys to U.S. Forces' success in Kosovo.

As chief of the Engineering Division, U.S. Army Engineer School, he was responsible for all technical engineering instruction, including more than 120 hours of engineering subjects. To promote licensure among engineers in the armed forces, McDonald personally mentored more than 50 engineers and assisted them in the Professional Engineer application process.

He also spearheaded the establishment of a PE review course for the community at Fort Leonard Wood through the University of Missouri-Rolla.

McDonald is also active in many professional organizations including NSPE, Society of American Military Engineers, Association of American Geographers, American Planning Association, American Institute of Certified Planners and American Legion.

He holds a doctorate in geological engineering and a master's degree in environmental engineering from University of Missouri-Rolla, a master's in geography from WKU, an MBA from Oklahoma City University and a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the United States Military Academy.

McDonald was chosen from a pool of 28 applicants by a panel of judges established by NSPE's Professional Engineers in Government practice division. Selection of the Federal Engineer of the Year is based on education, continuing education, professional and technical society activities, awards and honors, civic and humanitarian activities, and engineering achievements.

NSPE is the national society of engineering professionals from all disciplines that promotes the ethical and competent practice of engineering, advocates licensure and enhances the image and well-being of its members. Founded in 1934, NSPE serves more than 59,000 members and the public through 53 state territorial societies and more than 500 chapters. For more information, visit www.nspe.org

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