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Fernandez named 'Fellow' by engineering society

Nestor Fernandez joined an elite group of professional engineers last week when he was selected to be a National Society of Professional Engineers Fellow. Michael Hardy, president of the national organization, notified Fernandez of the selection Saturday (March 12).

“I am delighted to advise that Nestor Fernandez, P.E., has been selected by the NSPE board of directors to advance to the distinguished grade of NSPE Fellow member in recognition of his devoted service and vast contributions to our society and our honored profession,” Hardy said.

Nominations for the distinction are reviewed by the NSPE Council of Fellows executive committee, which in turn submits it to the society’s board of directors for approval. Fernandez is only one of three engineers in Idaho to hold the "Fellow" distinction, he said.

The NSPE Fellow program recognizes deserving professional engineers who have demonstrated long-term professional service at the chapter, state and national levels.

Fernandez has been the ITD roadway design engineer since 2007, succeeding Damon Allen. Before accepting that position, he helped guide Idaho’s largest highway expansion program – GARVEE (Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle). He represents ITD and the engineering profession as an advisor to the Nampa School District professional-technical education board. In that capacity he ensures the district's curriculum is current with engineering standards.

He served several years as an Engineer Manager 1 (consultant administration) and local roads engineer. His ITD career began in 1987 when Fernandez entered as a Transportation Technician – Senior, testing paving materials in the materials lab. He also assisted with new product research.

He completed the Engineer in Training program and became a staff engineer for District 3 in 1992.

Lynn Olson, past president of the Idaho Society of Professional Engineers, will present a Fellow certificate and pin to Fernandez at the state chapter’s annual meeting June 9, 10, in Coeur d’Alene.