A member of the Rock Island District has been recognized as one of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers top performers. Andrew Leichty, from the Program Management Branch, was awarded USACE Project Manager of the Year by the Corps’ Program and Project Management Community of Practice.
This award is given annually to the Corps employee who has distinguished themself through professional excellence, achievements, and superior performance in project management. Leichty was nominated for the award for his superior accomplishments in managing several Rock Island District Projects including Mill Creek-South Slough Project, North Raccoon River Emergency Streambank Protection Project and several projects within the Upper Mississippi River Restoration (UMRR) Habitat Restoration Program. His effective leadership and management expertise resulted in successful completion of projects that have benefitted many communities within the District.
"It is truly an honor to receive this award but it is definitely a reflection of the quality people whom I work with in this District," said Leichty.
Growing up in southeast Iowa, Leichty acquired an interest in engineering from his father who ran a construction business. He attended Iowa State University and earned a degree in civil engineering which he used to work for companies in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Kansas City, Mo., before joining the Rock Island District in 2002. Since that time he has made significant contributions to the work of the Corps on complex projects by working together with team members and customers to execute effective projects.
As a project manager for the District, Leichty leads projects through skillful participation and coordination with project delivery teams and customers. He coordinates work with his teams and customers to execute the work on schedule and within budget.
Leichty was nominated for his exceptional work by his supervisor Dennis Hamilton, Chief, Project Management Branch and Gary Meden, Chief, Programs and Project Management Division.
"He is known for providing clear and consistent direction to project delivery teams and managing his projects by working closely with the project sponsors," said Hamilton.
"He has gained an outstanding reputation with customers as a valuable partner and effective project manager. His willingness to take on new challenges and provide support and assistance to team members and others is exemplary," said Meden.
Outside of his work as project manager, Leichty stays busy getting involved in several other leadership roles. He has successfully completed the Rock Island District Leadership Development Program (LDP) and now serves as mentor for current LDP participants. He is also seen as a regional leader in project management as a member of the Quad City Chapter of the Project Management Institute and volunteers his time with Junior Achievement to mentor students.
On August 7, Leichty will attend the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Strategic Leaders Conference at Fort Belvoir, Va., where he will be presented his award.