Three engineers from Sandia National Laboratories have been recognized with prestigious awards by the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers. Mechanical engineer Anton Sumali received a Career Achievement Award, chemist and nanoengineer Bishnu Khanal was honored with a Professional Achievement Award, while transportation systems engineer Esther Woon Lyn John earned a Promising Professional Achievement Award. Their achievements reflect significant contributions to various scientific fields, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and excellence.
Profiles of Achievement
Each award recipient has a unique background yet shares a common thread of dedication to learning and advancing their respective fields.
Anton Sumali‘s journey began in 1987 as a control systems engineer in the petroleum industry in Southeast Asia. After earning his Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Indonesia’s Bandung Institute of Technology, he found the business environment uninspiring. He returned to academia, earning advanced degrees in mechanical engineering from Virginia Tech. His career has included a stint as an assistant professor at Purdue University, where he was drawn to national security work at Sandia following the September 11 attacks. Joining Sandia in 2002, Sumali has since played a pivotal role in advancing micro electromechanical systems and establishing the AutonomyNM Intern Institute, which focuses on developing new talent in artificial intelligence for national security.
Bishnu Khanal grew up in a small village in western Nepal, where a strong emphasis on education sparked his interest in science. After completing his undergraduate and master’s degrees in chemistry in Nepal, he pursued a Ph.D. at Rice University, specializing in nanotechnology. Since joining Sandia in 2018, Khanal has led research in advanced optical photolithography and now manages the Materials Mechanics and Tribology department. His diverse career has equipped him with transferable skills that enhance his problem-solving capabilities. Outside of work, Khanal is committed to supporting underprivileged students in his home village through the establishment of a trust.
Esther Woon Lyn John has rapidly ascended to influential roles within a decade, having worked at Cornell University, the World Bank, and now Sandia. Her expertise in data science and analytics has led to the development of actionable tools for national security, such as anomaly threat mapping for body scanners. John’s academic path, which culminated in a Ph.D. in transportation systems engineering, has allowed her to apply her skills in modeling and simulation to a variety of pressing issues, including logistics for nuclear deterrence programs. She actively mentors students and interns, demonstrating her commitment to fostering the next generation of engineers.
A Commitment to Excellence
The awards presented to Sumali, Khanal, and John reflect their significant contributions to science and engineering. Each recipient must be actively working in an IT, engineering, or scientific field, demonstrating measurable advancements in their discipline and a commitment to professional growth.
Their achievements not only highlight individual excellence but also underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in scientific research and the development of innovative solutions. By pushing the boundaries of their respective fields, these engineers are contributing to critical advancements in national security and technology, illustrating the dynamic intersection of academia and practical application.
As they continue to inspire future generations, their stories serve as a reminder of the impact of dedication, creativity, and a passion for learning in the ever-evolving landscape of science and technology.
