Air Force science, technology awards highlight 53rd Wing talent

  • Published
  • By Ashley M. Wright
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
Six scientists and engineers from the 53rd Wing captured service level awards at the Air Force Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Awards banquet at the Air Force Academy recently.

"The 53rd Wing stands out as a leader of technical excellence by winning six Air Force level awards, and I am both humbled and honored to be a part of it all," said Bridget A. Brooks, 36th Electronic Warfare Squadron.

Ms. Brooks received the award for Air Force Outstanding Scientist- Senior Civilian. Other winners from this category include Capt. Jeromie L. Shoulders, 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron; Capt. Cole W. Gulyas, 83rd Fighter Weapons Squadron; and Deana C. Nickerson, 59th Test and Evaluation Squadron.

Captain Shoulders used his degree in statistics from Texas A&M to develop a model used to predict the reliability for the air launch crisis missile, he said.

"I was amazed," said the Air Force's top military junior grade scientist. "We have so many talented individuals. To be amongst them was an honor."

Two members of the 36th EWS received Air Force Outstanding Engineer Awards.

Lt. Col. Stephen R. Pratt, now retired, won in the senior military category for leading the development and fielding of advanced software that safeguards the F-22, B-2, F-35 and various decoys, he said.

"The greatest challenge was guiding the development of the first-ever fifth generation aircraft electronic warfare threat database for the Joint Strike Fighter," he added. "These efforts have improved the effectiveness of the Air Force's EW programs and have advanced the 53d Wing's goal of 'Perfecting Lethality.' When I was notified that I had won, it was a feeling of pride for not only myself, but for the individuals I had the opportunity to work beside and their individual contributions culminated with this award."

Dylan E. Duplechain, also from the 36th EWS, captured the junior civilian engineer category for his work in the squadron.

"The 36 EWS directly supports the warfighter by enhancing the combat effectiveness of their electronic warfare systems," said Lt. Col. Gregory Patschke, 36 EWS commander. "The engineers and scientists routinely interact with aircrew which fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment. I am extremely proud to be part of this organization filled with dedicated professionals."

Air Force Outstanding Scientist Awards
Junior Military Category
Capt. Jeromie L. Shoulders - 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron, Barksdale Air Force Base, La.

Mid-Career Military Category
Capt. Cole W. Gulyas - 83rd Fighter Weapons Squadron, Tyndall AFB, Fla.

Junior Civilian Category
Deana C. Nickerson - 59th TES, Nellis AFB, Nev.

Senior Civilian Category
Bridget A. Brooks

Air Force Outstanding Engineer Awards
Senior Military Category
Lt. Col. Stephen R. Pratt

Junior Civilian Category
Dylan E. Duplechain