Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship program established in 2004 by Ada Irene Pressman, a pioneer in the field of power plant engineering. This scholarship aims to support and empower female engineering students by providing financial assistance to pursue their education. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the details of the Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship, including eligibility criteria, application deadlines, scholarship amount, and the inspiring life and accomplishments of Ada I. Pressman herself.
Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship (Est. 2004)
The Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship was established in 2004 through a generous endowment by Ada Irene Pressman. Ada, a renowned power plant pioneer, dedicated her life to the field of engineering and wanted to support aspiring women engineers through this scholarship program. The scholarship is administered by the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), an organization committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in engineering.
Who Is Eligible for the Scholarship?
The Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship is open to female engineering students who meet the following criteria:
- Must be a sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate student
- Must be majoring in any engineering discipline
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must demonstrate exceptional academic performance and leadership potential
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship is in May 2023. It is important for eligible candidates to submit their applications before the specified deadline to be considered for the scholarship.
Scholarship Amount
The Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship provides a significant financial aid of $5,000 to successful applicants. This scholarship amount can greatly alleviate the financial burden of pursuing an engineering degree and help recipients focus on their studies and personal growth.
Ada Irene Pressman: A Power Plant Pioneer
Ada Irene Pressman was an exceptional engineer who made significant contributions to the field of power plant engineering. Her expertise in combustion control and burner management for supercritical power plants was widely recognized, and she managed numerous design teams for power generating plants around the world. Ada’s leadership as a principal engineer for the San Onofre nuclear power plant in California showcased her remarkable skills and dedication to the industry.
Ada’s Education and Professional Journey
Ada Pressman’s educational journey began in Sydney, Ohio, where she attended secondary schools before pursuing her Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from Ohio State University in 1950. She kickstarted her engineering career as a project engineer at Bailey Meter Co. in 1950. Later, in 1955, Ada joined Bechtel as a power control systems engineer, where she flourished and rose through the ranks due to her exceptional skills and leadership qualities.
In 1969, Ada Pressman earned a Master’s in Business Administration from Golden Gate University in California, further enhancing her understanding of the engineering business landscape. Her dedication and passion for her work led her to become a registered Professional Engineer (PE), solidifying her status as a highly accomplished engineer.
Ada’s Remarkable Career Accomplishments
Throughout her career, Ada I. Pressman spearheaded numerous projects and managed multiple design teams for power generating plants worldwide. Her expertise in combustion control and burner management for supercritical power plants made her a respected authority in the field. One of her most notable career accomplishments was her leadership role as the principal engineer for the San Onofre nuclear power plant, located south of Los Angeles, California.
Despite being a quiet leader, Ada’s competence and authority were unquestionable. Her exemplary work ethic and dedication earned her the position of Chief Control Systems Engineer, and at the time of her retirement from Bechtel, she held the title of Engineering Manager.
Ada’s Contributions to the Society of Women Engineers (SWE)
Ada I. Pressman was an active member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) throughout her career. She joined SWE in 1954 as a charter member of the Cleveland Section and later became a Senior Member in 1961. Ada’s commitment to the organization was exceptional, and she held various leadership roles, including serving as SWE President from 1979 to 1980.
During her tenure as President, Ada faced the challenges of a tumultuous period when the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) was being fiercely debated. Her steadfast leadership and commitment to advancing women in engineering were recognized through multiple prestigious awards, including the SWE Achievement Award and the Distinguished Service Award.
Ada’s dedication to SWE continued beyond her presidency. In 1983, she was elected to the SWE Board of Trustees and played a crucial role as Treasurer, leading the Board from handwritten ledgers into the computer age.
Ada’s Affiliations and Awards
Apart from her involvement with SWE, Ada I. Pressman held memberships in other professional organizations. She was an active member of the Instrument Society of America and eventually became its national President. Ada received numerous accolades and recognition for her contributions to the field of engineering, including the Distinguished Alumni Award from Ohio State University and the Outstanding Engineering Merit Award from Bechtel.
The Legacy of Ada I. Pressman
Ada I. Pressman’s impact on the engineering community is immeasurable. Her dedication to her profession, leadership abilities, and commitment to promoting women in engineering serve as an inspiration to aspiring engineers. Through her generous scholarship endowment, Ada’s legacy lives on, supporting and empowering the next generation of female engineering leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship?
The Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship program established in 2004 to support female engineering students. It provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing their education in engineering.
Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
Sophomore, junior, senior, or graduate female engineering majors who are U.S. citizens are eligible to apply for the Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the Ada I. Pressman Memorial Scholarship is in May 2023. It is essential for interested candidates to submit their applications before the specified deadline.