IEEE‑USA is proud to announce the 2025 Awards recipients—exceptional innovators whose work advances technology, strengthens the engineering profession, and serves communities across the United States. Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination this cycle.

Robert S. Walleigh Distinguished Contributions to Engineering Professionalism Award

Honors long‑term, outstanding accomplishments that advance IEEE professional activities in the U.S.

Dr. Karen Panetta, Distinguished Professor & Dean of Graduate Education, Tufts University School of Engineering
Citation: “For leadership innovating educational programs and technology exemplifying the impact of the profession to benefit humanity and inspiring future generations.”
Highlight: Panetta’s image‑enhancement technologies are used globally in airport security, medical imaging, and disaster response—improving safety and quality of life for millions.

John Meredith Professional Service Award

Recognizes outstanding IEEE‑USA volunteer efforts and contributions. 

Dr. Brendan B. Godfrey
Citation: “For exemplary service in enhancing the voice of IEEE‑USA members in the Nation’s Capital.”
Highlight: Godfrey led authorship of IEEE‑USA positions on fundamental research, defense science, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and technical leadership, strengthening IEEE‑USA’s policy impact and has served as Chair on all 3 major IEEE-USA committees.

George F. McClure Citation of Honor

Honors exemplary contributions toward achieving IEEE‑USA’s professional activities in the U.S.

• Dr. Joseph L. Greene, Research Engineer, Georgia Tech Research Institute
  Citation: “For turning initiative into action developing programs and materials for thousands of IEEE student members.”
  Highlight: From revitalizing Boston University’s IEEE‑HKN chapter to founding a global mentoring program with 850+ logged hours across six continents, his work has built leadership pathways impacting thousands of students worldwide each year.
• Sampathkumar Veeraraghavan, President, Brahmam Innovations; Senior Technology & Program Management Leader, Amazon
  Citation: “For inspiring leadership and pioneering contributions advancing IEEE‑USA professional activities and the engineering profession through social innovations and impactful global programs.”
  Highlight: As Global Chair of IEEE SIGHT and HAC, he launched record‑breaking, high-impact humanitarian technology programs that reached thousands across IEEE Regions 1-6.
• Chamika Sudusinghe, Ph.D. Student, University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign
  Citation: “For exemplary leadership in advancing student professional awareness through IEEE Volunteering, IEEE ELEVATE, and Virtual Career Fairs, and for strengthening student‑to‑YP transitions across the United States.”
  Highlight: Sudusinghe launched IEEE ELEVATE (a project mentoring program) and pioneered IEEE’s first region-wide Virtual Career Fair, a scalable model now expanding across U.S. Regions and beyond.

Entrepreneur Achievement Award for Leadership in Entrepreneurial Spirit

Recognizes IEEE members who exemplify entrepreneurial spirit and have commercialized technology products/services that advance society.

Bhaskara Raju Rallabandi, Co‑Founder & CTO, Invences Inc.; IEEE Senior Member
Citation: “For entrepreneurial leadership in founding and scaling a U.S.-based technology company, advancing innovation in 5G/6G and Open RAN, shaping global standards, and inspiring future leaders through mentorship and community impact.”
Highlight: Rallabandi’s work spans private 5G deployments, rural connectivity pilots, and AI‑driven orchestration—illustrating how entrepreneurship can deliver societal impact alongside U.S. technology leadership.

Jim Watson Student Professional Awareness Achievement Award

Recognizes key contributors to Student Professional Awareness activities in the U.S.

Alberto Tam Yong, Senior Electrical Engineer, Applied Medical (or Regional Student Activities Chair, IEEE Region 6)
Citation: “For exemplary dedication to supporting IEEE student members and facilitating their transition to young professionals through impactful volunteer leadership and mentorship.”
Highlight: Tam Yong led programs that boosted Student Branch reporting by 307% and revived long-dormant technical competitions—empowering hundreds of students to lead and engage as active IEEE members.

K–12 STEM Literacy Educator–Engineer Partnership Award

Honors educator–engineer collaborations that provide learning experiences to precollege students and support IEEE/IEEE‑USA education goals.

Melody Richardson & Dr. LaShawn McMillan
Citation: “For leading outstanding programs like IEEE Atlanta Family STEM Nights which empower several K‑12 students beyond curriculum to understand STEM better.”
Highlight: What began as a single event at Ashford Park Elementary in 2016 spread through word‑of‑mouth and school‑to‑school relationships, evolving into a partnership that has now delivered 1,000+ interactive STEM experiences and reached 14,500+ students and families across 12 schools.

Harry Diamond Memorial Award

Honors distinguished electrotechnology contributions while in U.S. government service.

Dr. Erik P. Blasch, Program Officer, Air Force Research Laboratory
Citation: “For contributions in the exploitation of electrotechnology sensing for situation awareness.”
Highlight: Blasch’s pioneering research, 80+ patents, and open‑architecture deployments (including the AF Distributed Common Ground System and the Team Awareness Kit) have transformed multi‑sensor fusion at scale.

Award for Distinguished Literary Contributions

Recognizes outstanding efforts that expand public understanding and/or advance the engineering profession in the United States.

Avishkar (“Avi”) Nikum, Sr. Security Industry Specialist, Amazon.com Services LLC
Citation: “For exceptional literary contributions across multimedia platforms that transformed public understanding of cybersecurity engineering, reaching 22,000+ individuals through innovative multilingual content spanning academic publications, broadcast media, and digital journalism.”
Highlight: Nikum’s multilingual storytelling and peer‑reviewed work have influenced Fortune 500 practices and helped communities prevent fraud through accessible cybersecurity education.

Nominate a 2026 Awardee

Nominations for the next cycle open March 15, 2026. Explore award criteria and start your nomination at IEEE‑USA Awards & Recognition.

About IEEE-USA:

IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of more than 150,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization.

Contact:

Jonathon Choe
Staff, IEEE-USA Awards & Recognition
202-530-8363 | j.choe@ieee.org

Leah Laird
Staff, IEEE-USA Awards & Recognition
202-530-8328 | l.laird@ieee.org

2025 survey highlights a sharp rise in the use of Python—a powerful programming language—along with younger consultants entering the market and shifting regional rates

IEEE-USA has released the results of its 2025 Consultants Fee Survey of engineering and technology consultants This annual survey provides critical data on compensation, in-demand skills, regional trends, and demographic shifts, helping consultants and organizations navigate the evolving demands of the consulting industry.

IEEE-USA has been surveying the compensation of IEEE’s U.S. members since 1972. The 2025 report profiles self-employed consultants—their education, experience, business practices, median earnings, and hourly fees—helping them set competitive hourly rates and understand the nuances of the market.

The report highlights several significant findings:

• Surge in Software Expertise: Python consulting jumps nearly 18%
  Python—a versatile programming language used for data analysis, machine learning, web development, and automation—has become a critical skill for engineering consultants. Usage among consultants soared from 9.3% in 2024 to 26.8% in 2025, signaling a major shift toward software-driven solutions in the industry.
• Broader Industry View: Inclusion of “partial consultants” for the first time
  This year’s survey expands its scope to include professionals who consult part-time, offering a more comprehensive picture of the consulting landscape.
• Demographic Shift: Younger professionals entering the field
  The mean age of consultants dropped from 63.8 to 58, reflecting an influx of younger talent—often bringing digital skills that align with rising demand for Python and other tech expertise.
• Regional Dynamics: Mountain region leads in median rates
  The Mountain region has overtaken the Pacific region as the highest-paying area for consultants, highlighting evolving economic and geographic trends.
• Business Realities: Repeat clients remain vital
  Repeat business accounts for 61% of full fee-based consultants’ revenue, underscoring the importance of strong client relationships.
• Rate Variation & Education Premium
  Nearly half of consultants (49.3%) maintain consistent rates, while 16.5% report variations of $150 or more. Consultants with Ph.D.s earn an average of $50 per hour more than those without, reinforcing the value of advanced education.

“One of the most striking findings this year is the rising demand for consultants who are well-versed in Python programming,” noted Mohammed Billoo, Chair of the IEEE-USA Consultants Committee. “This dramatic increase underscores the growing importance of software expertise in the engineering and technology sectors, highlighting a key area for consultants to develop and market their skills to remain competitive.”

Interested parties can gain access to the full report, which includes detailed compensation data and trend analysis, by purchasing it at https://ieeeusa.org/product/ieee-usa-consultants-fee-survey-report-2025-edition/. The report is available for IEEE members at $29.95 and for non-members at $49.95. This comprehensive resource is designed to help consultants set competitive hourly rates and understand the latest industry trends.

About IEEE-USA:

IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of nearly 160,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization. 

Contact:

Leah Laird
Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist, IEEE-USA
202-530-8328 | l.laird@ieee.org

John Yaglenski
Director of Communications, IEEE-USA
202-530-8359  | j.yaglenski@ieee.org

IEEE-USA is officially entering the domain of U.S. space policy with the launch of its new Space Policy Committee (SPC) — a move that couldn’t come at a more critical time.

With global competition intensifying, NASA’s priorities shifting, commercial space ventures rising, and space control priorities coming into focus — the future of space is being shaped now. IEEE-USA’s SPC will ensure that engineers and technologists have a seat at the table as policies are crafted to govern this rapidly evolving domain.

Why it matters:
U.S. space policy is at a crossroads. From civil space missions and commercial innovation to defense spacepower and strategic competition, today’s challenges are vast and urgent. U.S. based IEEE members bring the expertise and perspective needed to shape policies that foster technological excellence for the benefit of humanity. 

“This initiative underscores our commitment to shaping Washington DC space policy in a way that benefits humanity, harnessing the expertise of our members to guide critical decisions,” shared Tim Lee, IEEE-USA President.

As with IEEE-USA’s other successful policy committees, this new effort will harness member insights to engage policymakers and advance sound science and technology policy.

What the SPC will do:

• Inform: Track and share key space-related developments across sectors
• Shape policy: Develop position statements on emerging space issues
• Advocate: Engage with Congress and federal agencies 
• Advise: Contribute to the shaping of federal space policy regulations

“Space policy is a systems-level challenge that demands engineering insight,” says Dr. Jonny Pellish, inaugural chair of the IEEE-USA Space Policy Committee. “This committee is about connecting technical expertise with policy needs to provide strategic foresight and guide the next era of space innovation.” IEEE-USA’s policy committees consist of IEEE members who are subject matter experts and professionals in a given technology ecosystem.

Pellish brings a rare blend of technical expertise and policy acumen to this role. A senior member of IEEE and seasoned space systems engineer, Dr. Pellish previously served as a Brookings Legis Fellow in the U.S. Senate, and as the Director of Civil Space Policy on the National Space Council, where he gained firsthand experience in legislative processes. His deep understanding of microelectronics, national security, and civil space systems — combined with a passion for workforce development and strategic foresight — makes him uniquely qualified to lead this new committee as it tackles the complex challenges shaping U.S. space policy today.

“This committee is timely, but it’s also catalytic,” said Barry Tilton, IEEE-USA President-Elect. “Dr. Pellish and his committee members are ready to bring top-tier expertise to the front lines of space policy. I’m eager to see how their work will shape the first wave of recommendations and help position the U.S. for leadership in this rapidly evolving field.”

The SPC’s first initiatives are already underway. Visit ieeeusa.org/committees/spc for more information.

About IEEE-USA:
IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of nearly 160,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization. 

Contact:
Leah Laird
Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist, IEEE-USA
202-530-8328 | l.laird@ieee.org

John Yaglenski
Director of Communications, IEEE-USA
202-530-8359  | j.yaglenski@ieee.org

IEEE-USA recently produced an expansion of their video campaign which featured U.S. members to now include a global perspective, showcasing IEEE members from around the world. This initiative highlights the diverse experiences and achievements of IEEE members, illustrating The Impact of IEEE Membership in advancing careers and impacting the global technology landscape.

“These interviews lay out a unique roadmap to success,” said IEEE Past President Thomas Coughlin. “By sharing the personal journeys and achievements of our global members, we aim to inspire other engineers and tech professionals to explore the many benefits of IEEE membership – from networking and leadership roles to research collaborations and career advancement. We’re confident that these inspiring stories will resonate deeply with our audience and demonstrate the immense value of the IEEE community.” Coughlin was instrumental in getting the first campaign started in 2020, while IEEE-USA President.

The extended campaign features interviews with leading professionals from various fields and countries, including Takako Hoshimoto (Computer Scientist, Tokyo, Japan), Yasohiko Inoue (Satellite Engineer, Tokyo, Japan), Nell Watson (AI Wrangler, Northern Ireland), Mayumi Suzuki (Researcher, Hitachi Ltd, Tokyo, Japan), James Irvine (Researcher/Educator, Glasgow, Scotland), Abdul Hameed Raji (Energy Strategist, London, England), and Kevin Curran (Professor of Cyber Security, Northern Ireland). These interviews offer unique insights into their career paths, highlighting the role IEEE played in their success.

These compelling narratives demonstrate the numerous ways IEEE supports its members, including:

• Career Development targeted to engineering and tech industries
• Access to professional societies and their industry-tailored benefits
• Leadership experience and community engagement through IEEE volunteering
• Access to thought leadership and insights at IEEE conferences and networking events
• Cutting-edge research and publications
• Awards & Recognition

By showcasing the diverse achievements of its global membership, IEEE hopes to encourage more professionals both within and outside of the US to join the organization and benefit from its extensive resources.

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Learn more about the inspiring journeys of these accomplished members and discover how IEEE can benefit your own professional development. Visit ieee.org/discover to watch the interviews and explore the many opportunities made available by joining IEEE.

About IEEE-USA:

IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of nearly 160,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization. 

Contact:

Leah Laird
Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist, IEEE-USA
202-530-8328 | l.laird@ieee.org

John Yaglenski
Director of Communications, IEEE-USA
202-530-8359  | j.yaglenski@ieee.org

Looking to sharpen your skills, explore new career paths, or just get inspired? IEEE-USA’s free webinar library has hit a milestone — 150+ sessions and counting! Whether you’re a student, a seasoned pro, or somewhere in between, there’s something here for you.

From salary negotiation and resume tips, to leadership, consulting, and even retirement planning, these webinars are packed with practical advice and expert insights — all designed to help you grow in your career.

👉 Start exploring now at ieeeusa.org/calendar/career-webinars

“These webinars provide a valuable resource – often untapped by our members,” said Diane Bowen Collier, Chair, IEEE-USA Career & Professional Development Committee. “Presented by subject matter experts in a variety of fields, they cover exciting technical developments and topics to expand your professional skills. Whether you’re tuning in during a lunch break or making the most of your commute, these sessions offer continuous learning that fits into your day.” 

🔍 What You’ll Find in the Library:

• Career Boosters: Resume writing, salary negotiation, job search strategies
• Leadership & Management: Communication, team building, emotional intelligence
• Consulting & Entrepreneurship: Business skills, branding, client management
• Life Planning: Retirement, wealth-building, and work-life balance
• PDHs Available: U.S. IEEE members can request certificates for professional development hours (PDHs)

🎯 Upcoming Live Webinar:

Essential Documents for Your Estate Plan

📅 22 October 2025 | Hosted by the IEEE Foundation

A comprehensive overview of essential estate planning documents—wills, trusts, financial powers of attorney, and advance healthcare directives—explaining their roles, how they work together, common pitfalls to avoid, and recent legal updates that may impact your strategy.

🔗 Register now at https://bit.ly/ieeeusa-webinar-10-22-25

IEEE-USA’s webinars aren’t just about individual growth — they’re part of a bigger mission to promote lifelong learning, support innovation, and build a stronger, more connected STEM community.

So what are you waiting for? Dive into the library, register for the next live session, and start leveling up — one free webinar at a time.

About IEEE-USA:

IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of nearly 160,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization.

Contact:

Leah Laird
Sr Marketing & Communications Specialist
202-530-8328 | l.laird@ieee.org

John Yaglenski
Director, Communications
202-530-8395 | j.yaglenski@ieee.org

Kayla Henneberry
Webinar Program Lead, Career & Member Services
202-530-8356 | k.henneberry@ieee.org

Recent announcements from major tech employers have left thousands of skilled workers seeking new opportunities. To help those workers who have been displaced,  IEEE-USA is powering up our career portfolio with expanded offerings for members and non-members alike:

• An Upcoming Career Workshop on July 19: featuring resume tips & tricks and career coaching. Register today for only $10!
• Free Webinars on job search strategies and emerging tech skills
• “Resources for IEEE Members during Periods of Transition“ and other helpful articles for job seekers via IEEE-USA Insight – our flagship online publication.
• Mentorship programs and networking events
• Career and professional development E-Books & Audiobooks (free to members)
• Resources and Networking for technological consultants
• The IEEE Job Site: which offers the top jobs available in Electrical and Electronics Engineer. Search and apply to open positions or post jobs on IEEE Job Site now.

Members also enjoy access to special rates, exclusive networking events, resources, PDH credits, volunteering opportunities, eligibility for IEEE-USA awards, etc. For more information on the benefits of IEEE membership, visit: https://ieeeusa.org/discover/.

“We know how disruptive layoffs can be—not just financially, but emotionally and professionally,” said Amber Orr, 2025 VP of Career & Member Services, IEEE-USA. “We’re here to support those in the profession with the tools, resources, and community they need to land on their feet and thrive.”

IEEE-USA also encourages employers with open roles to connect with its talent network and post opportunities through its career forum: CareersConnect via IEEE Collabratec . For those interested in partnering to reach our membership with job opportunities, visit https://ieeeusa.org/advertise.

Are you a technological consultant? Get plugged into IEEE Consultant’s Network. Add your profile to the IEEE-USA Consultants Finder, view relevant job postings and get noticed by organizations who are seeking your expertise.

For more information or to access career resources, visit ieeeusa.org/careers.

About IEEE-USA:

IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of nearly 160,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization.

Contact:

Leah Laird
Sr Marketing & Communications Specialist
202-530-8328 | l.laird@ieee.org

John Yaglenski
Director, Communications
202-530-8395 | j.yaglenski@ieee.org

Dr. Tracy Fanara Joins Maxim Jago as Speaker on 5-night Voyage Combining Fun and Learning

In just over 5 months, the 2025 IEEE-USA Western Caribbean Cruise sets sail, offering a unique opportunity for engineers, technologists and STEM professionals to combine professional growth with a tropical escape. Departing from Galveston, TX, aboard Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas, this immersive networking experience will explore the Caribbean, with visits to the stunning shores of Costa Maya and Cozumel. With interior staterooms starting at just $938.37 and flexible payment plans available, now is the perfect time to reserve your spot for best availability.

“This year’s cruise is the ultimate chance to unwind from life’s daily stress while forging connections with fellow travelers from across the U.S.,” says IEEE-USA Communications and Cruise Director John Yaglenski. “With an emphasis on fun and networking, the experience also features captivating lightning sessions led by world-class speakers, offering both inspiration and insight.”

The IEEE-USA Cruise blends professional development with personal renewal. On sea days, attendees can expect thoughtfully curated “lightning sessions” and professional development programming scheduled during the morning and afternoon. Casual networking socials and meetups are held daily, creating easy opportunities to connect without interrupting the vacation vibe. Whether you’re looking to recharge, gain fresh insights, or make new connections, this cruise offers a rare chance to do it all—at sea.

This year’s featured speakers include:

• Dr. Tracy Fanara, aka “Inspector Planet,” an environmental engineer, scientist, and science communicator known for her work on harmful algae blooms, coastal resilience, and public science education. With appearances on Shark Week, Mythbusters, and National Geographic, Dr. Fanara brings a dynamic, interdisciplinary perspective to environmental challenges and innovation.
• Maxim Jago, an award-winning filmmaker, consultant futurist, best selling author and Founder of The Creativity Conference. His work explores the intersection of creativity, technology, and human potential. Maxim is well-known as a media technology trainer and presenter, and author of many books and training series for Adobe and Avid, as well as the IEEE-USA E-Book, What Will Our World Be Like in 10 Years?. 
  

This cruise is ideal for:

• Professionals looking to expand their network in a relaxed, immersive setting
• Individuals seeking career inspiration or transition
• Entrepreneurs and freelancers interested in business development
• Anyone craving a creative reset and a break from the routine
• Families and friends of attendees who want to enjoy a world-class vacation while staying connected to a vibrant professional community

Cabins are filling fast! To book your stateroom or learn more about IEEE-USA’s Western Caribbean Cruise, visit cruise.ieeeusa.org.

Interested in sponsorship opportunities to reach our cruisers and IEEE-USA’s national membership? Explore our packages at cruise.ieeeusa.org/sponsorship.

About IEEE-USA:

IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of nearly 160,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization.

Contact:

Leah Laird
Sr Marketing & Communications Specialist
202-530-8328 | l.laird@ieee.org

John Yaglenski
Director, Communications
202-530-8395 | j.yaglenski@ieee.org

As Maine’s small business owners and entrepreneurs face a challenging economic landscape, the need for fresh solutions and strategic partnerships has never been greater. So, how can innovators in the Northeast get government resources and AI to work for them? IEEE-USA’s IWRC AI Summit will answer these questions and more. Gathering experts from industry, academia and government to share ideas and foster partnerships, this event is poised to be a vital stepping stone to a thriving workforce and small business economy in Maine.

“If you are a STEM entrepreneur or someone who wants to start your business in Maine, this will be your conference,” says Dr. Ashanthi Maxworth, Associate Professor of Electrical Engineering at USM. “Maine’s economy is run by a collection of small businesses, so this event will bring together resources and representatives from industry, academia and the government, to one place, so that we can show businesses and startups the resources that are available to them here in Maine.”

IWRC AI attendees will have unparalleled networking opportunities, and gain insights into federal and state technology initiatives, promoting small business and ingenuity in the northeast. From students and small business owners to regional changemakers, there will be ample time for locals to network, finding new paths for collaboration and evolution.

“Innovation is a team effort,” said Brian Whitney, President of Maine Technology Institute. “By bringing together researchers, government officials, small business owners and investors, we create a powerful synergy that drives our local innovation ecosystem forward. This summit is a unique opportunity to foster these essential partnerships.”

The summit boasts a growing list of hard-hitting speakers from diverse technical domains, offering valuable insights into the latest advancements and initiatives in AI and technology to foster a collaborative environment. Speakers include David Daigler (President, Maine Community College System); Brien Walton (Chairman, Maine Venture Fund); Scott Kleiman (Workforce, Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future, State of Maine); and Brian Whitney (President, Maine Technology Institute), to name a few.

The IWRC AI agenda also features expert-led discussions on a wealth of topics, including:

• How Maine Can Develop and Support Its Technical Workforce
• Putting AI to Work in Maine and AI Policy Trends
• How to Find Funding as a Small Business
• Innovation and Intellectual Property, and more

Registration for IEEE-USA’s IEEE-USA’s Innovation, Workforce & Research Conference (IWRC) AI Summit is now open. Visit iwrc.ieeeusa.org; or contact Melissa Carl at m.carl@ieee.org.

The full agenda and list of speakers can be found at iwrc.ieeeusa.org.

About IEEE-USA:

IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of nearly 160,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization.

Contact:

Leah Laird
Sr Marketing & Communications Specialist
202-530-8328 | l.laird@ieee.org

John Yaglenski
Director, Communications
202-530-8395 | j.yaglenski@ieee.org

Embark on the 2025 IEEE-USA cruise to the sun-soaked shores of the Western Caribbean. From 27 Oct – 1 Nov 2025, join us on a 5-night journey that offers an unparalleled blend of relaxation, cultural immersion, and exclusive networking and educational opportunities. Don’t miss out on this unique experience – secure your spot today.

“There aren’t many events quite like this one,” said Keith Moore, 2024 IEEE-USA President. “We all need that refreshing escape, a moment of rest, and some fun amidst our busy work year. Here it is — sun, sand, crystal clear water, and the chance to network with fellow professionals in this laid-back environment.” Moore attended the first two IEEE-USA cruise voyages – and he won’t miss this next one, either.

We will sail aboard Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas. The cruise will embark from Galveston, Texas, and navigate to the ancient, lush shores of Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. Guests will enjoy pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and rich historical heritage, all while engaging in leading-edge networking and learning opportunities.

Highlights of our voyage include:

• Exclusive Socials and Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow professionals in a relaxed, tropical setting.
• Gourmet Dining and Live Entertainment: Savor delicious cuisine and enjoy world-class performances aboard this stunning ship.
• Insightful “Lightning Sessions” from Acclaimed Speakers: Participate in quick-paced and engaging sessions designed to help you climb the ladder in all aspects of your life, from wellness in the tech sphere to emotional intelligence and public speaking.
• Ship Amenities: Experience boredom-busting features for the thrill seeker, like the FlowRider surfing simulator, rock climbing wall, and the Perfect Storm waterslides.

Onboard attendees will have access to key professional speakers like Maxim Jago, an award-winning filmmaker, best-selling author, consultant futurist, and international public speaker. Maxim presents an engaging optimistic-realist perspective on personal development and collective endeavor. His recent appearances include a keynote at Abraham House in Davos during the World Economic Forum (WEF), discussing universal communications and future expectations for AI and Artificial Super Intelligence.

Cabins are selling quickly!  To book your stateroom now, or learn more about IEEE-USA’s 2025 Western Caribbean Cruise, visit cruise.ieeeusa.org.

Interested in sponsorship opportunities to reach our cruisers and membership throughout the year? Explore our packages that offer extensive visibility both online and in person, at cruise.ieeeusa.org/sponsorship.

About IEEE-USA:

IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of nearly 160,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization.

Contact:

Leah Laird
Sr Marketing & Communications Specialist
202-530-8328 | l.laird@ieee.org

John Yaglenski
Director, Communications
202-530-8395 | j.yaglenski@ieee.org

Each year, the IEEE-USA Awards Program celebrates exceptional leaders who have made remarkable contributions to the engineering and technology community. We are proud to announce the 2024 IEEE-USA Award recipients, whose innovative efforts and dedication have significantly advanced their fields. 

Brianne Tengan, Young Professionals Coordinator for IEEE Region 6, is recognized for her visionary leadership in transforming student engagement among IEEE members.  She receives the Jim Watson Student Professional Awareness Achievement Award,  which honors IEEE members, including students, who volunteer their time and share their professional experiences with students to encourage active, lifelong IEEE membership. Her consistent efforts to engage and support students and young professionals, coupled with her leadership roles at local, regional, and national levels set her apart as a leader and champion of successful student-to-professional transitions nationwide. IEEE-USA leaders look forward to seeing Brianne’s continued accomplishments as an industrious professional and volunteer leader. This award is only one of IEEE-USA’s portfolio of Professionalism Awards.

Babu Chalamala, Senior Scientist at Sandia National Laboratories, has been selected as the honored recipient of the IEEE-USA Harry Diamond Award. Dr. Chalamala’s outstanding leadership and contributions to advancing grid energy storage technologies and applications in the field of electrotechnology make him a highly deserving recipient of this prestigious award, which seeks to identify individuals who make distinguished technical contributions in the field of electrotechnology while in U.S. Government Service. With his strong record of service and leadership roles within IEEE, significant engagement in supporting public understanding of science and technology, and support for R&D in science and engineering, IEEE-USA is pleased to celebrate Dr. Chalamala’s distinction.

Jeff Perry, Leadership and Career Coach for Engineers, is commended for his years of publications, authoring titles such as The Intentional Engineer, which provide significant aid to professionals looking to advance their careers. Perry is the recipient of the 2024 IEEE-USA Award for Distinguished Literary Contributions, which recognizes outstanding journalistic, or other textual efforts, contributing to the enhancement and expansion of the public understanding, and the advancement of the engineering profession in the United States. Through his written works, Perry’s effort to educate the public about engineering careers is evident.

IEEE-USA will be presenting these awards, in person, to each recipient at IEEE events within their respective regions. More information on IEEE-USA’s Awards Program, including the 2024 recipients, can be found at ieeeusa.org/awards.

Sincere thanks to everyone who submitted nominations, and congratulations to all the distinguished honorees. Mark your calendars for the 2025 IEEE-USA Awards Cycle, opening on 1 April 2025. 

About IEEE-USA:

IEEE-USA serves the public good and promotes the careers and public policy interests of more than 150,000 engineering, computing and technology professionals who are U.S. members of IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization.

Contact:

Jonathon Choe
Staff, IEEE-USA Awards & Recognition
202-530-8359 | j.yaglenski@ieee.org

Leah Laird
Staff, IEEE-USA Awards & Recognition
202-530-8328 | l.laird@ieee.org