The Academy of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering Excellence
The Kevin T. Crofton Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering and the members of its advisory board established an Academy of AOE Excellence in 2016.
Membership
Membership in this academy is reserved for individuals who have made sustained and meritorious engineering and/or leadership contributions during their careers. While many of the inductees will be alumni of the AOE department, being an alum is not a requirement. It is expected that members have reached the zenith of their professional journeys, showcasing these individuals as exemplars of success and as beacons of inspiration. These distinguished ambassadors are crucial in fostering a culture of engineering excellence and integrity at Virginia Tech, thereby ensuring the enduring growth and influence of our cherished traditions and ambitions.
Alumni Awards and Departmental Honors
In addition to our academy membership, the department recognizes achievements and accomplishments of our alumni in all stages of their careers, and honors contributions of faculty and staff.
Emerging Leaders Award: This award aims to highlight alumni who have shown exceptional progress and notable achievements within the first decade of their careers. These alumni are recognized as future leaders, demonstrating rapid advancement and making a significant impact in their organizations and fields. By honoring their accomplishments, the department not only celebrates their success but also strengthens its connection with these emerging leaders, encouraging them to contribute to the department’s ongoing mission and strategic goals.
Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award: This award is dedicated to recognizing Virginia Tech alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of aerospace and ocean engineering during their careers, generally within 10 to 20+ years of experience. Awardees are celebrated for their professional accomplishments, their recognition by peers, and their sustained impact within the field. By showcasing their achievements, the AOE Department strengthens its community and engages alumni in advancing the department’s mission and goals, encouraging them to become active participants in its future success.
Award for Service and Engagement: This award celebrates individuals who have made substantial volunteer contributions to the department. It acknowledges those who have furthered the department's goals through their selfless dedication, support, and active participation. By honoring these individuals, the department recognizes the crucial role of volunteer service in advancing its mission and fostering a collaborative, vibrant community that extends beyond professional achievements alone.
Distinguished Faculty Award: In recognition of faculty members for lifelong contributions to the profession, field, University or society at large. Nominees have brought distinction to the department, evidenced by activities that extend beyond normal expectations, unique contributions, or long standing leadership and impact on the University and beyond.
Meritorious Staff Award: Honoring staff members for their commendable service to the department and University. Nominees have demonstrated their commitment to excellence, integrity, leadership, loyalty, respect, and selfless service.
Selection
After the large inaugural class of 2016, the AOE Department and the advisory board anticipates inducting no more than five-six individuals annually. Initiates are selected from about 6,700 living alumni of the AOE Department and the many friends and faculty who have demonstrated a dedication to the Virginia Tech core values throughout their careers. These core values are etched on the pylons above the War Memorial: Brotherhood, Honor, Leadership, Sacrifice, Service, Loyalty, Duty, and Ut Prosim.
Nominations for the academy and alumni awards will be sought annually at the Spring meeting of the AOE Advisory Board. An announcement to initiate the annual process will be sent by the Department Head each January, with the deadline for receipt of nominations in late March. Nominations may be submitted by AOE Alumni, members of the AOE Advisory Board, the AOE Department Head, the Dean of the College of Engineering, and the AOE faculty. Other constituencies may develop a nomination and submit in collaboration with the aforementioned nominators.
All nominations will be reviewed by the Advisory Board Committee on Leadership and Recognition. The committee will then submit its recommendations for Academy membership to the Department Head and AOE faculty for a final decision on newly-elected candidates and honorees. After the large inaugural class of 2016, no more than 5 members may be inducted in any single year. Newly-elected members will be notified and asked to accept membership before any public announcement is made.