10/29/04

Goodson Recognized for Achievement and Volunteer Efforts
New Town Engineering Employee Holds Volunteer and Engineering Awards

When Town of Holly Springs Engineering Department Director Stephanie Sudano hired Elizabeth Goodson as Development Review Engineer last month, she knew Goodson was talented. With a background working in an environmental and geotechnical engineering firm added to a degree in construction engineering and management from NC State University, Goodson came highly lauded.

But, it wasn’t until this month that Sudano learned that her new hire (pictured below) also was awarded North Carolina Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service by NC Governor Mike Easley.

“With the level of commitment and credentials she brings to this job, it doesn’t surprise me that Elizabeth achieved these honors,” Sudano said. “I’m proud to welcome her to the Holly Springs Engineering staff.”

Goodson was awarded the Volunteer Service award for her efforts coordinating engineers to help people affected by Hurricane Isabel. Before homeowners can apply for federal emergency funds after a natural disaster, their homes first must be inspected by a licensed professional to determine the extent of the damage. In the weeks following the storm, Goodson’s job was getting the professional engineer volunteers trained and to the homeowners in need in the five counties most affected by the storm. Goodson contributed more than 120 hours during the five months following Hurricane Isabel as part of the effort.

Goodson also was recently named as Young Engineer of the Year by the Professional Engineers of North Carolina (PENC) on both the local chapter and state levels. This comprehensive award takes into account education, service, professional development and technical experience. The award is for engineers under age 35 that are members of PENC, an organization with nine chapters and nearly 2,000 members statewide.

“Receiving the award was both exciting and humbling,” Goodson said. “There are a lot of people under the age of 35 that do great work. The fact I was chosen was quite an honor.”

Goodson comes from an engineering family; her father, grandfather and uncle all chose engineering for a profession. However, Goodson is the first female engineer in her family.

“I enjoy problem-solving and using engineering to help others work more efficiently,” she said.

Goodson added that she is looking forward to obtaining a variety of experience in her field with Holly Springs. As development review engineer, Goodson reviews preliminary plans for all development projects in Holly Springs. Projects range from the new fire station to be built along Holly Springs Road and other public buildings to subdivisions and shopping centers.

Town of Holly Springs - PO Box 8 - 128 South Main Street - Holly Springs, NC 27540 - (919) 552-6221 - Holly.Springs@hollyspringsnc.us