The National Academy of Engineering (NAE) announced this week that aerospace engineering alumnus James O. Ellis, '70 has been elected to the prestigious organization, joining more than 2000 members and 211 foreign associates worldwide. Ellis and his fellow nominees will be officially honored in October, when the NAE convenes its annual meeting in Washington, D.C.
 
Ellis is the president and chief executive officer for the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations in Atlanta, GA, and serves on the board of directors of Lockheed Martin.  He is a retired four-star admiral and former commander, United States Strategic Command, Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska.  Ellis was recognized by the NAE "for leadership in advancing safe nuclear power plant operations throughout the world."  Ellis holds a Master's degree in aerospace engineering from Georgia Tech.
 
Civil Engineering alumnus John R. Huff, '68 was also elected to the NAE. 
 
"We are delighted that the National Academy of Engineering has recognized two Georgia Tech graduates for their oustanding contributions to engineering and as leaders in their fields," said Gary May, dean of the College of Engineering.  "The College of Engineering takes great pride in its alumni and their achievements following graduation from Tech."
 
Election to the National Academy of Engineering is among the highest professional distinctions accorded to an engineer, according to NAE president Charles M. Vest.  Academy membership honors those who have made outstanding contributions to "engineering research, practice, education, or engineering literature," and to the "pioneering of new and developing fields of technology, making major advancements in traditional fields of engineering, or developing/implementing innovative approaches to engineering education."
 
For more information visit the NAE website.