Many research studies yield results. Few produce findings that can reverberate across numerous fields of engineering and science.

Dr. Robert F. Zueck, Ph.D., P.E., of the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC), applied his vibration research to military defense projects for which engineers can now design beyond the speed, agility, and stealth limitations of many military sensors, weapons, and platforms.

For his discoveries and contributions in the engineering field, Dr. Zueck was recently awarded the 2022 Federal Engineer of the Year Award by the National Society of Professional Engineers.

“Every success for me has come out of the hard teamwork of many fellow engineers and scientists,” said Zueck. “I thank them all—particularly those who provided valuable constructive criticism of my rather unique research results.”

In a basic research project conducted several years ago, Zueck discovered how geometrically complex vibrations initiate, grow, and sustain themselves, often limiting higher performance for many combat systems. He used this new vibration knowledge to improve the Expeditionary Warfare Center’s modeling capability for designing, analyzing, and deploying towed sensors, ship moorings, sub-sea arrays, and other slender naval structures.

“This basic science discovery could be very useful for modeling simulating and testing in many other fields of engineering and science,” said Zueck.

Ordinarily announced during an annual luncheon in Washington. D.C., the event was celebrated virtually for the second time in its 43-year history. The Federal Engineer of the Year Award (FEYA is the only award recognizing the exceptional achievements of engineers employed in the federal government, and the nominees for 2022 continued the legacy of representing the best and brightest engineers employed in the public sector. Thirty-eight engineers were selected as winners for their respective agencies. Ten finalists were identified for the top honor, which was announced on February 24.

“Each of our agency winners are living examples of the values we hold as a profession and as the National Society of Professional Engineers,” said NSPE President Rick Guerra, P.E., F.NSPE. “This award represents a great deal of respect and appreciation for their significant accomplishments, and for their adherence to the code by which all engineers should be guided.

For nearly 15 years, Zueck’s structural engineering expertise helped NAVFAC develop a program for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining the tall towers that support communications, control, and other naval missions. The engineering team’s workload greatly expanded in 2018 to include more than 100 annual tower inspections. Zueck has also managed extensive waterfront engineering projects for more than a decade, including piers, wharves, dry docks, breakwaters, and other critical naval facilities.

“I worked with many very qualified and highly ethical colleagues, who have consistently shown me the highest level of professionalism and integrity,” said Zueck. “The public can clearly have tremendous respect and confidence in our federal engineering workforce.”