Recognizing Outstanding Achievement Across SME

SME® | Published on March 16, 2025

We are proud to celebrate several outstanding Team Members who were recognized at this year’s annual conference, Summit. These individuals embody our core values through their dedication and commitment to lifting up the people and teams around them.

This year’s awards honor excellence in safety, technical expertise, field work, multi‑service collaboration, and exceptional leadership and performance. Together, these recognitions highlight the spirit of excellence our Team Members bring to every challenge and every client interaction.

President’s Award

The President’s Award honors individuals who demonstrate extraordinary leadership, exceptional performance, and a lasting impact on both their teams and the company as a whole. These recipients exemplify what it means to elevate our organization through excellence, integrity, and service.

President’s Award recipients are:

  • Todd Johnson, CWI, Steel | Coatings | NDT

Todd is a clear example of what it looks like to live our core values every day. His commitment to selfless service and the depth of expertise he brings to his work set a high standard for our team. When a client had a critical need on a project that involved work we had not done before, Todd didn’t hesitate. He stepped up, obtained a specialized certification, and made the project possible. His drive to learn, adapt, and deliver solutions ensures our clients feel supported no matter the challenge. Clients consistently rave about Todd’s professionalism, reliability, and ability to get things done. Many choose to return specifically to work with him, a true reflection of the trust and confidence he inspires. Todd’s dedication strengthens our team, elevates our client experience, and represents the very best of who we strive to be.

  • Scott Roosa, PE, Geotechnical

Scott is deeply committed to his expertise and demonstrates an exceptional work ethic in everything he does. He consistently finds a way to deliver results and add value while clearly communicating impact of his work. His ability to take on challenges with focus and determination makes him a reliable and trusted leader across the Team. Beyond his technical strengths, Scott is genuinely invested in the growth of others. He takes the time to mentor teammates pursuing their PEs, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical support that helps them advance in their careers. His willingness to share knowledge and lift others up strengthens the entire team. Scott exemplifies SME’s core values and performance principles every day, through his ownership, practical solutions, and teamwork. His contributions make a lasting difference, both in the quality of our projects and in the development of the people around him.

  • Eric Murrell, RA, BECxP, CABS, Building Materials

Eric has held many roles at SME, beginning his career by stepping in as the Building Materials group leader. While serving as team lead, he guided the group with professionalism and expertise, setting clear expectations and supporting the team through every challenge. His strong technical expertise and thoughtful approach made him a trusted resource. Now serving as SME’s Chief Architect, he consistently asks insightful questions that elevate the team’s work and strengthen decision‑making. As a mentor, he invests in the growth of those around him and creates an environment where people feel supported and continually learning. Eric’s leadership, dedication, and genuine care for his team have made a lasting impact on the Building Materials group and on SME as a whole. We are proud to recognize Eric for his outstanding contributions, technical excellence, and exemplary leadership.

 

Safety Award

The Safety Award recognizes individuals who champion safe work practices and strengthen our culture of safety across teams and projects. These honorees model and engrain the behaviors and mindset that keep our people, partners, and clients safe every day.

The Safety Award recipients are:

  • JoBeth Peterson, Environmental
  • Kyle Areaux, PE, Geotechnical
  • Stacey Brown, PE, SE, Building Materials

 

Practical Expert Award

The Practical Expert Award honors Team Members who demonstrate exceptional technical mastery, innovative problem‑solving, and deep expertise in their field. These individuals help raise the bar for quality and technical excellence across the organization.

The Practical Expert Award recipients are:

  • Kevin Kramer, Information Technology
  • Steven Flowers, PE, Geotechnical
  • Phil Kimmel, Information Technology
  • Tim Bedenis, PE, Geotechnical
  • Eric Murrell, RA, BECxP, CABS, Building Materials 

 

Field Services Impact Award

The Field Services Impact Award recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in the field through reliability, high‑quality on‑site performance, and strong client relationships. Their commitment ensures our work is delivered safely, accurately, and with exceptional service.

The Field Services Impact Award recipients are:

  • Bruce Zell, Construction Materials Services
  • Kyle Cardinal, Construction Materials Services
  • Jon Timmerman, Construction Materials Services
  • Robin Bates, Construction Materials Services

 

ONE|SME Award

The ONE|SME Award celebrates Team Members who embody our ONE|SME mentality—collaboration across services, versatility, and a willingness to support other groups, offices, and teams. These individuals help unite our organization and strengthen our cross‑disciplinary impact.

The ONE|SME Award winners are:

  • Brian Mercado, EI, Geotechnical
  • Matt Rochford, Survey
  • Courtney Blank, Administrative Services
  • Jesse McDonald, Construction Engineering Inspection