WIESBADEN, Germany — Ms. Jennifer Cruz, lead engineer and Engineering Branch Chief, 2d Theater Signal Brigade, was selected as the 2023 Asian American Engineer of the Year, an annual award presented as part of National Engineers Week.
“I am surprised, and a bit intimidated when I researched previous winners of the award,” Cruz said. “I don’t strive for recognition for my work, but I am pleased that my leadership thought the effort to even nominate me was worth the time given our operations tempo.”
First introduced as part of the National Engineers Week Program in 2002, the Asian American Engineer of the Year award is an annual recognition event on the national platform to honor the most distinguished professionals with their leadership, technical achievements, and remarkable public services.
This event has since become a prestigious and important forum for Corporate America, Academia, and Government entities in promoting Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics activities.
Cruz, a self-professed ‘military brat,’ began civilian service in the fall of 2003 as an Army Civilian Training, Education and Development Systems Intern.
“As a new graduate, I saw working for the military as an opportunity for hands-on training, gaining experience in the workforce, developing as a team member, and progressing to a team leader,” she said.
As the 2d Theater Signal Brigade’s lead engineer and Engineering Branch Chief, Cruz demonstrated remarkable technical expertise, leadership, and discipline. She serves as the functional subject matter expert for U.S. Army Europe and Africa’s Non-Secure Internet Protocol Router and Secure Internet Protocol Router networks, and she is responsible for campus-level architecture, mission-funded areas of responsibility, and integration with NATO and exercise mission networks.
Cruz recently led the Brigade’s engineering response to Security Assistance Group – Ukraine requirements. Additionally, she led the development and implementation of numerous critical projects for the Department of Defense, and currently supports networks in 21 countries. Her expertise is crucial in physical security and site preparation, thus ensuring the safety and security of essential facilities and infrastructure.
While she is highly dedicated to her daily work responsibilities, Cruz is also instrumental in workforce recruitment. She mentors junior engineers and actively supports the brigade’s efforts in the CyberPatriot competition, where her team members serve as coaches for participating students.
Cruz appreciates her leadership and team for their efforts and for taking the time to nominate her for the prestigious award. She also thanks her family for their love and support.
“Thanks to my Moms and Pops, and James for supporting almost everything I’ve done,” she said. “Thank you to my leadership, whose effort is as much appreciated as the award itself. Finally, thank you to my engineering team, 2d Theater Signal Brigade, and to all the service members, civilians and host nation employees. It is a joy to work with you every day.”
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