2026 Award Recipients will be announced at the STEM Celebration on February 26, 2026.

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2025 Award Recipients

QCESC 2025 Junior Engineer of the Year:  James Wood

James Wood, Section Manager at Stanley Consultants, has been honored with the 2025 Junior Engineer of the Year Award by the Quad City Engineering & Science Council (QCESC). At just 26 years old, Wood has become a standout leader at Stanley Consultants, overseeing a team of six structural engineers and driving impactful projects. His technical expertise, strong leadership, and emotional intelligence have made him an invaluable asset to his company and the engineering community.

Wood has made remarkable strides in his career, notably as the youngest section manager at Stanley Consultants. His contributions range from overseeing structural designs for federal and industrial projects to taking on leadership roles in the firm’s Young Professionals Group. He has also played a crucial part in improving the company’s recruitment efforts, significantly boosting entry-level recruitment since he joined the company. Wood’s volunteering efforts extend beyond the workplace, with involvement in STEM education initiatives such as MATHCOUNTS and Project Lead the Way. His leadership and commitment to early career development have set a positive example for his peers.

James Wood earned his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Civil and Structural Engineering from the University of Iowa, located in Iowa City, IA.

 

QCESC 2025 Senior Engineer of the Year:  Kirk Atwater

Kirk Atwater, Structural Engineer at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Rock Island District, has been awarded the 2024 Senior Engineer of the Year Award by the Quad City Engineering & Science Council (QCESC). Atwater has demonstrated exceptional dedication to USACE and the Quad Cities through his innovative engineering solutions to complex waterway infrastructure problems. His work, particularly in the Locks and Dams System, has led to millions of dollars in savings and will positively impact the nation’s infrastructure for generations.

Atwater’s contributions have significantly impacted both regional and national infrastructure. His innovative approaches to river maintenance and structural repairs for the Locks and Dams System have enhanced efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Notably, his work in developing new procedures for miter gate repairs and Tainter gate replacements has revolutionized maintenance practices. His efforts have saved time and money for both the U.S. government and the shipping industry. Atwater has also shared his expertise in various professional settings, including presenting at USACE National Maintenance Conferences, and actively volunteers in STEM education through initiatives like Project Lead the Way and the Battle of the Bridges.

Kirk Atwater holds a Master’s degree in Civil/Structural Engineering and a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, both from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physics with Engineering from Illinois College.

 

QCESC 2025 Junior Scientist of the Year:  Sarah Eckert

Sarah Eckert, Pharmacy Auditor at University of Iowa Hospitals, has been named the 2025 Junior Scientist of the Year. Eckert’s work in conducting detailed audits as part of the first cohort of auditors has already resulted in over $150,000 in savings for patients through 340B and compliance audits. Moreover, Sarah consistently exceeds expectations by taking on responsibilities beyond her job description. She volunteered additional hours to manage a summer camp nurse’s office, where she cared for injured or sick campers and proactively updated and improved the incident report form. As an Undergraduate Research Assistant, Sarah demonstrated strong initiative by organizing chemical cabinets, preparing for inspections, and ensuring full compliance with state safety guidelines. In her role as a Medical Supply Specialist, she redesigned the store layout, optimized the clinic space to enhance patient comfort, and overhauled the inventory control system – removing expired products and significantly improving safety. Eckert is the primary author of several peer-reviewed scientific journal articles focused on innovative healthcare solutions and emerging medical technologies.

In addition to her professional achievements, Sarah has dedicated over 700 hours to STEM-related volunteer work, organizing events, camps and experiences that have impacted thousands of students. Her contributions in both healthcare and broadening access to STEM education demonstrate her exceptional leadership and commitment to driving transformative change.

Eckert is currently pursuing her Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree at the University of Iowa, where she is part of the prestigious 6-Year Pharmacy Program.

 

QCESC 2025 Computing/IT Professional of the Year:  Sarah Garthaus

Sarah Garthaus, Senior Virtual Design Manager at IMEG in Rock Island, IL, has been honored with the 2025 Computing/IT Professional of the Year Award by the Quad City Engineering & Science Council (QCESC). In her role, Sarah manages IMEG’s virtual design standards, resources, and education, and has made significant contributions to the field of building information modeling (BIM). She was named to Engineered Systems Magazine’s 2020 “20 to Watch: Women in HVAC” and frequently shares her expertise at national conferences, advancing innovation in BIM and Revit.

Sarah’s career spans architecture, environmental sciences, and virtual design. After transitioning from an architectural background, Sarah joined IMEG in 2013 as BIM Manager and is now the firm’s Senior Virtual Design Manager. In this role, she oversees the firm’s virtual design operations, managing 50 virtual design coordinators and one direct report. Sarah has pioneered the integration of virtual reality into IMEG’s BIM services, offering immersive design experiences for clients. She has also been actively involved in community initiatives, including organizing blood drives, supporting IMEG’s women’s empowerment group, and volunteering for local arts fundraisers.

Sarah holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and a Master of Science in Natural Resources and Environment from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, along with an MBA from St. Ambrose University.

 

QCESC 2025 STEM Teacher of the Year:  Courtney Wiedenmann

Courtney Wiedenmann, Agricultural Education Instructor and FFA Advisor at North Scott Junior High School, has been awarded the 2025 STEM Teacher of the Year Award by the Quad City Engineering & Science Council (QCESC). Wiedenmann’s innovative approach to agricultural education has transformed her students’ learning experiences, helping them earn state and national awards while advancing community partnerships. Her commitment to real-world applications of STEM concepts and her mentorship of future innovators has made a lasting impact on her students and the community.

Wiedenmann has demonstrated exceptional leadership in developing the Ag Tech course at North Scott Junior High, creating a hands-on curriculum aligned with essential standards. She is also the driving force behind the North Scott Junior FFA Chapter, which earned recognition as a Top 5 Finalist in the 2023 National FFA Middle School Model of Excellence. Beyond her classroom, Wiedenmann is an active member of several professional organizations, including the National Association of Agricultural Educators and the Iowa FFA Proficiencies Review Committee. She also dedicates time to supporting students in various FFA and 4-H activities, as well as organizing community service projects that highlight the importance of agriculture and STEM.

Wiedenmann holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education from Oklahoma State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Agricultural Education and Leadership from Illinois State University.

 

QCESC 2025 Volunteer of the Year:  Jason Michael Ryan

Jason Michael Ryan, lead mentor for FRC 648 – QC Elite Flaming Squirrels, has been named the 2025 STEM Volunteer of the Year by the Quad City Engineering & Science Council (QCESC). Jason’s exceptional dedication to the community, especially in the realm of STEM education, has made a lasting impact, contributing over 1200 hours of volunteer service in the past two years alone. His efforts were integral in the creation of the QC STEM Alliance Center, providing an inspiring hub for local students to engage in robotics and STEM initiatives.

Throughout his career, Jason has demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering STEM education. As a mentor for FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) teams for the past seven years, Jason has guided young minds, helping them develop critical skills in problem-solving and teamwork. In 2023, he was instrumental in securing a new location for the QC Elite 648 Non-Profit, transforming a 9,000-square-foot retail space into the QC STEM Alliance Center. Beyond his mentorship, Jason has played a crucial role in the John Deere Recruiting Team and was a founding member and treasurer of the Fargo Moorhead STEM Alliance’s Board of Directors in 2019. Jason’s work in the Quad Cities follows a successful tenure in Fargo, where they helped establish the FM STEM Alliance and supported several FRC teams.

Jason holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota and works as a Technologist – Manufacturing Emerging Technologies at John Deere, Moline, Illinois.

 

QCESC 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award:  William D. “Bill” Ashton

William “Bill” D. Ashton, former owner of Ashton Engineering Inc., has been posthumously honored with the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award for his lifelong dedication to engineering, community service, and philanthropy. A highly respected structural engineer, Bill’s career includes notable contributions to local infrastructure projects such as the Trinity Episcopal Cathedral Steeple, Vander Veer Park fountain and Davenport’s bike paths. His lasting impact is further underscored by his service as a U.S. Army Ranger and Combat Engineer Officer, and his philanthropic efforts which have benefited international humanitarian causes and the Quad City STEM community.

Throughout his distinguished career, Ashton was an active leader in engineering and civic organizations. As a member of both the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME), Bill served as past president and fellow for both organizations, continuously contributing to their success. He also played a vital role in local volunteer efforts, including serving as the head track judge for the Davenport Community School District for over 50 years, and directing Father Conroy’s Vineyard of Hope from 2005 to 2019. Bill’s international efforts include designing a church in Kenya, participating in Rotary’s efforts to rebuild in earthquake-stricken India, and spearheading a Smile Campaign in Brazil. His impact on both his local community and global initiatives is unparalleled.

Bill was a founding member and active participant in the QCESC Battle of the Bridges from 2008 to 2024, coaching school-age participants on effectively using materials and tools for optimal results. For the first twelve years, he served as “Dr. Bridge,” emceeing the bridge tests, predicting failure points, and explaining how the bridges would respond to increasing loads, helping participants learn from these insights to improve in future events.

Bill earned his B.S. and M.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Iowa, where he was inducted into the Distinguished Engineering Alumni Society in 2008.

 

QCESC 2025 President’s Award of Merit: Dan Drexler

The Quad Cities Engineering and Science Council (QCESC) is proud to announce the recipient of the 2025 President’s Award of Merit: Dan Drexler, former industrial technology teacher at Bettendorf High School. This prestigious award recognizes Dan for his outstanding contributions to education, his unwavering support of STEM programs, and his exceptional work as an advocate for hands-on learning experiences.

Throughout his tenure at Bettendorf High School, Dan was a steadfast partner and advocate for the QCESC, providing his students with real-world education that prepared them for success in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Dan’s excellence in education was recognized in 2010 when he was honored as the QCESC STEM Teacher of the Year.

Dan’s impact on the QCESC community is immeasurable, particularly through his involvement in the QCESC Tech Challenge. Launched in 2009, the Tech Challenge consists of three hands-on competitions, including the popular cardboard boat regatta race and Trebuchet egg throw. Dan played a critical role in these events, sharing his expertise with fellow educators and ensuring the success of the competition. His tireless work in organizing and hosting these activities has provided invaluable learning opportunities for students across the region.

Some of Dan’s many contributions include:

• Hosting multiple QCESC STEM Teachers Night Out events, including the inaugural event and one featuring the Iowa Governor.
• Coaching FIRST LEGO League teams and organizing the first qualifier event for QCESC.
• Hosting the annual Trebuchet egg throw competition at Bettendorf High School, providing the necessary materials and logistical support for the event’s success.

Dan Drexler’s unwavering dedication to education and his extraordinary contributions to the QCESC community have left a lasting impact on both students and educators alike. His passion for teaching and his commitment to fostering a love for STEM has inspired countless young minds, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the future.

Dan’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of STEM leaders continues to inspire all those who work with him, making a profound and lasting impact on the community.

 

QCESC 2025 Society of the Year Award: American Society of Civil Engineers – Quad Cities Section.

The American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 160,000 members of the civil engineering profession in 177 countries. Founded in 1852, ASCE is the nation’s oldest national civil engineering society. The ASCE Quad Cities Section has a membership of about 120 and is very active, holding several meetings and a technical seminar throughout the year. In 2024 the meetings included a tour of the Davenport compost facility, a briefing on Area Capital Improvements by city engineers from Bettendorf, Rock Island, Davenport, and East Moline, and a social event at the River Bandits. The Section’s biggest event of the year was the joint training symposium in collaboration with the Society of American MIlitary Engineers. Approximately 200 attendees were provided learning opportunities. The Section is proud to have provided a total of $7,500 in scholarships to area students to continue their education in STEM in 2024. And, QCESC appreciates the Section being a sponsor of the Battle of the Bridges for several years, donating to the event and providing volunteers. Accepting the QCESC 2025 Society of the Year Award is Vanessa Haberman, of the US Army Corp of Engineers, Rock Island District.

 

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The QCESC Awards were first established in 1966, initially with the Engineer of the Year award. Since then, additional awards have been added including:

• 1995 – Scientist of the Year
• 2000 – Society of the Year
• 2007 – Lifetime Achievement
• 2010 – STEM Teacher of the Year
• 2013 – STEM Volunteer of the Year
• 2023 – Computing Professional of the Year

Past Award Recipients Listed by Year (1966 – 2025) 

The QCESC will celebrate 64 years of awards in 2026!