TOLEDO, Ohio, February 19, 2013 – SSOE Group (www.ssoe.com), a global engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) firm, announced today that Andrew Mekus, PE, has been named “Young Engineer of the Year” by The Toledo Society of Professional Engineers (TSPE). Andrew is a chemical engineer in SSOE’s Toledo, Ohio office and has been with the firm since 2005.
“Andrew is an outstanding engineer who is willing to tackle any challenge thrown his way with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. His ability to listen and effectively address project needs, as well as grasp new processes quickly, has made him a valuable member of the SSOE team. I congratulate Andrew on this well earned recognition,” stated Ken Gruenhagen, PE, PMP and Division Manager for SSOE’s Food and Consumer Products division.
Since 2010 Andrew has served as the leadership co-chair for organizing and implementing the Toledo area’s annual Engineer for a Day Program – part of National Engineer’s week , where students from local high schools are invited to explore the career path of engineering. In addition, Andrew currently serves as Vice President of TSPE and is an active member of the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), and EPIC Toledo.
Andrew is a 2005 graduate of The University of Cincinnati with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and has 8 years of industry experience. In 2008, he received the SSOE Founder’s Award for his role in a project team that developed an innovative use of 3D technology which resulted in savings equaling more than $3.2 million for one of SSOE’s top chemical clients. This award is revered as the company’s highest honor, recognizing a team or individual for exemplary execution of SSOE’s core principals – innovation, differentiation, and diversification. With a strong commitment to both personal and professional development, Andrew earned his Professional Engineering (PE) license for the state of Ohio in 2010.
Nominees for the “Young Engineer of the Year” award were judged in seven categories: technical knowledge, professional interest and habits, personal character, leadership, public relations, civic spirit, and contributions to the community, state, and or nation. The award was presented at a luncheon held at Parkway Place in Oregon, Ohio in honor of Engineer’s Week.