Middle East District News

A Marathon to Mastery: An Army Engineer's Journey to Lifelong Learning

Joe Macri — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:04:00 GMT

Lt. Col. Donald Lew has become the first and only active-duty Engineer Officer to earn all nine Engineer Additional Skill Identifiers (ASIs) after a 15-year journey. His pursuit was not initially a deliberate goal but was driven by a passion for self-improvement, particularly for his assignment with the 75th Ranger Regiment. Lew has utilized every skill acquired and encourages others to pursue these qualifications, stating that the main barrier is self-imposed limitations.

An Engineers Journey: A Blueprint for Success Beginning at the Middle East District

Shannon Moeck — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 18:50:00 GMT

From her first steps into the Middle East District as a high school intern to her current role as an Army Fellow, Chloe Koren’s journey with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers provides a blueprint for success. Her progression through the District's internship programs and into the prestigious Army Fellows Program demonstrates how sustained investment and mentorship build the next generation of engineering leaders, paving the way for a dedicated career in service to the nation.

Former Professor Finds Career Change Well Planned

Joe Macri — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 13:42:26 GMT

Dr. Joshua Kincaid, a former university professor with a background in ecological biogeography and dendrochronology, has successfully transitioned his academic skills to a community planning position with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Middle East District. He now uses his expertise to forecast and plan the long-term infrastructure needs for U.S. and allied military bases. His unique career change highlights how non-traditional backgrounds can be a valuable asset in supporting mission requirements.

Creativity Fuels Capability for Industrial Designer

By Joe Macri — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 15:06:11 GMT

Jackson Jenkins, an engineering technician with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District, brings his industrial design background and creative passion to complex defense infrastructure projects across the region. His blend of creativity and technical precision strengthens the District’s modeling capabilities and consistently earns praise from teammates for accuracy and innovation.

Middle East District Shines with Army Star Safety Award

Shannon Moeck — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 16:57:00 GMT

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District celebrated its achievement as the fifth USACE district to earn the Army’s highest safety recognition, the Army Safety and Occupational Health (SOH) Star, during a ceremony in Winchester, Va. on Tuesday.

It Takes a District to Earn USACE’s Highest Safety Honor

Shannon Moeck — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 14:17:00 GMT

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District earned the 2024 Chief of Engineers Safety Award of Excellence for its outstanding safety culture and performance. Led by Chief of Safety Vanessa Matheny, the District’s success reflects years of sustained effort, leadership commitment, and collaboration across teams and partners. From field inspections in high-risk environments to proactive hazard prevention and real-time safety training, the District integrates safety into every aspect of operations, ensuring mission success while keeping people safe.

Quality Data Builds Quality Projects

Joe Macri — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 12:33:12 GMT

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recently introduced Engineering Quality Risk Indicators (EQRIs) to help project teams identify and address risks throughout both design and construction phases. Rather than replacing existing regulations, EQRIs offer a structured way to evaluate whether quality processes are being followed and if teams have the tools and skills to succeed. Feedback and honest responses from team members are central to improving project outcomes across the board.

No Explosives, No Problem, Sapper Training Provides Tactical Skills and Strategic Mindset

Joe Macri — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 18:50:00 GMT

Lieutenant Colonel Donald Lew, Deputy Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District, exemplifies how the Sapper spirit endures beyond the battlefield. A combat engineer with a distinguished military career, Lew now helps deliver critical infrastructure in support of U.S. and partner nation defense efforts across the Middle East. As USACE celebrates 250 years of engineering excellence, Lew’s journey underscores the strategic value of combining military leadership with the deep expertise of a civilian workforce, building not just structures but lasting global partnerships.

USACE Employee Awarded for Adding Value to Projects

Joe Macri — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 17:32:00 GMT

Dale Hartmann, works for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District, received the 2025 Distinguished Service in Government Award for his advocacy of value engineering (VE). Hartmann’s leadership in the Center of Standardization for Nonpermanent Facilities (COS) resulted in over $20 million in savings, demonstrating the impact of VE in optimizing performance and resources through innovative solutions.

Middle East District Employees Answer the “Essayons” Call

Joe Macri — Tue, 27 May 2025 13:22:44 GMT

Although the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District primarily supports military construction in the Middle East, several employees recently volunteered to assist with domestic disaster response missions, including wildfires in Hawaii and California and flooding in North Carolina. Guided by the Corps motto, Essayons—“Let Us Try”—team members provided critical support ranging from contracting and quality assurance to GIS mapping. Their contributions helped restore devastated communities and gave employees a deeper connection to USACE’s broader mission. From rebuilding schools and homes to offering comfort to survivors, each volunteer made a lasting impact during a time of crisis.

From Marine to Firefighter: Ken Kajihiro’s Commitment to Service

Shannon Moeck — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 18:08:26 GMT

Ken Kajihiro, a former U.S. Marine and current attorney with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, balances his demanding legal career with volunteer firefighting in Winchester, Virginia. Driven by a lifelong commitment to service, he completed rigorous fire academy training to serve on the front lines, finding renewed purpose and camaraderie through community service.

Efficiency Drives New Offboarding Process at the Middle East District

Shannon Moeck — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 13:10:05 GMT

A conversation between two colleagues at the Middle East District led to the creation of an innovative online offboarding system. Mary Beth Murray and Marcie Piper developed the tool in mid-2024 using SharePoint and Power Automate to replace outdated, inefficient processes. Their collaboration improved accountability, reduced risk, and streamlined employee departures. The system’s success highlights how creative problem-solving and teamwork can drive impactful change across an organization.

USACE Project Oversight Part Art Part Science

Joe Macri — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:16:18 GMT

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Middle East District focuses on ensuring its projects are led by a healthy Project Delivery Team (PDT), which consists of trained professionals, is mission-focused, and demonstrates innovation and adaptability. Success is assessed through both hard data, such as schedules and budgets, and softer factors like communication and stakeholder management. Improvements in project quality have been achieved through the implementation of data quality review boards. COL Christopher Klein emphasizes the importance of leadership involvement, noting that sometimes saying "no" is necessary to ensure a successful, realistic project outcome rather than one that is expedited.

USACE Safety Program Made Me a True Believer

Joe Macri — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 20:03:21 GMT

In my 28-year federal career, first as an active-duty Air Force officer and then a Department of

Fellowship Turns Participants an Army Shade of Green

Joe Macri — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 13:56:02 GMT

The U.S. Army Fellows Program introduces recent college graduates to the Army Civilian workforce through "Greening" events, which provide insights into military operations, rank structure, and the Army’s mission. Led by David Rackmales of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Middle East District, these events emphasize collaboration between civilians and soldiers while showcasing the unique mission of the Middle East District, including foreign military sales and infrastructure projects for allied nations. Fellows rotate across districts, gaining hands-on experience and broad exposure to USACE operations, fostering professional growth and a deeper understanding of their role in supporting the Army’s readiness and mission.

'Essayons' in Action: Perseverance Delivers 3D Map for Lebanon

Shannon Moeck — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 18:55:08 GMT

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District (TAM) recently completed a 3D topographical map for Lebanon, showcasing their perseverance and commitment to their motto "Essayons" ("Let us try"). Despite numerous challenges, including defective materials and delays, the project was completed on budget and on time. Mark Whitacre, a key technical expert, played a central role in overcoming obstacles and ensuring the map's success. The map will aid the Lebanese Armed Forces in military planning and is part of a larger infrastructure project. TAM's dedication to problem-solving and innovation was crucial in delivering this valuable tool.

ROTC Cadet Temin Sohn’s Summer Experience at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Field Office in Jordan

Shannon Moeck — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 12:36:27 GMT

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Transatlantic Middle East District (TAM) hosted ROTC Cadet Temin Sohn as part of its cadet summer training program, providing him with a unique experience in Jordan. Sohn, a chemistry student at the University of Southern California, participated in construction site visits and cultural exchanges, shadowing TAM professionals and gaining firsthand knowledge of USACE’s operations. He appreciated the guidance from Army officers, including their positive mindsets and diverse experiences. His time in Jordan, which included visiting the historic site of Petra, left a lasting impression, and he highly recommends the program for its invaluable insights into military and engineering careers in the Middle East.

COL Klein Engages STARBASE Academy Students with Engineering Program

Shannon Moeck — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 13:25:00 GMT

Students at the STARBASE Academy in Winchester, Va., recently explored the world of engineering with Col. Christopher Klein, Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Middle East District (TAM). STARBASE, a Department of Defense program, aims to inspire elementary students in STEM fields. Klein, whose son's class participated, shared his experiences, emphasized the importance of engineering, and led students in building popsicle stick bridges to test their strength. Klein's presentation highlighted TAM's commitment to developing future engineers, encouraging students to imagine themselves shaping tomorrow's technology.

Transatlantic Middle East District Celebrates Leadership Development Graduates: Building Future Corps Leaders and Stronger Team

Joe Macri — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 10:58:00 GMT

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Middle East District celebrated the graduation of eight employees from the Leadership Development Program Tier 1 during a ceremony on September 5. The program, designed to cultivate future leaders within USACE, included a revamped curriculum that emphasized mentorship and practical capstone projects to improve TAM's project delivery process. Col. Christopher Klein highlighted the program's importance in growing leaders and fostering team cohesion across the district. Graduates praised the program for providing a broader understanding of the organization and enhancing leadership skills.

Lieutenant Colonel Donald K. Lew Promoted in USACE Ceremony

Shannon Moeck — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 15:44:00 GMT

Lieutenant Colonel Donald K. Lew was promoted from Major to Lieutenant Colonel during a ceremony on August 28, 2024, at the Transatlantic Middle East District (TAM) Headquarters in Winchester, VA. The event, attended by family, friends, and distinguished guests, highlighted Lew’s exceptional service and potential for future leadership.