He is the first person from Georgia Tech to receive the medal in its 105-year history. The honor is reserved for “eminently distinguished engineering achievement” — in Lieuwen’s case, for leadership in promoting clean energy and sustainable propulsion systems. He’s also being recognized for his contributions to policy and workforce development.

“I’m deeply honored to receive this award — and even more grateful for the extraordinary community that made it possible,” said Lieuwen, Tech’s executive vice president for Research and Regents’ Professor in the Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering. “For three decades at Georgia Tech, I’ve been privileged to work alongside brilliant colleagues, students, and staff who shaped my journey and driven our shared success. This recognition isn’t mine alone; it belongs to every member of our Yellow Jacket family who turns bold ideas into real-world results. It’s a celebration of what we’ve accomplished together — and a powerful reminder of the exciting path ahead.”

Read more about the award from the Daniel Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering.