MSPE honors local engineering professionals, installs one to leadership

Three local engineers recently were recognized by the MSPE during its annual convention, and one of those professionals was installed in a leadership role for the 2,000-member, statewide association, according to an MSPE announcement.

Brad R. Parrish

The Missouri Society of Professional Engineers installed Brad R. Parrish, PE, as vice president. Parrish is cofounder and vice president of Springfield firm Palmerton & Parrish Inc.

Parrish earned his bachelor's degree and his master's degree in civil engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla. He is a past president of the Ozark Chapter of MSPE and previously was that organization's "Young Engineer of the Year." He also is a director of the Consulting Engineers Council of Missouri and is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, the National Groundwater Association, the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Springfield Contractors Association and the American Welding Society.

Fred E. Palmerton

Fred E. Palmerton, president of Palmerton & Parrish, was honored by MSPE with induction into the MSPE Hall of Fame. Induction into the MSPE Hall of Fame acknowledges outstanding MSPE members and nonmembers for their investments of time and talent to further the goals and objectives of the society through various activities within the engineering community. In recognition of his MSPE Hall of Fame membership, Palmerton received a framed resolution and his name is listed on an engraved plaque at MSPE's Jefferson City headquarters.

Palmerton has been an active member of MSPE since 1977, serving in several capacities, including president of the Ozark Chapter in 1990 and state president in 1997. He also has held memberships in the American Society of Civil Engineers, for which he previously served as District 16 regional chair and the mid-Missouri president. He served as co-chair of the city of Springfield Storm Water Committee, which reviewed the technical standards and policies for local stormwater design, and drafted, promoted and passed stormwater-related tax and bond issues to correct flooding and drainage problems in the city.

R. David Plank

R. David Plank, retired director of engineering services at City Utilities of Springfield, was recognized by MSPE for outstanding service to the engineering profession and received the National Society of Professional Engineers Fellow Member distinction. Fellow member distinction honors members for exemplary service to the profession, the society and the community. MSPE, a state affiliate of the national organization, nominated Plank for the honor. During his tenure at CU, Plank established the Central Laboratory and was instrumental in the Stockton Water Supply Project, Blackman Water Treatment Plant and various other projects at the James River and Southwest power stations. He has been an active member of MSPE since 1959, serving in several positions, including president of the Ozark Chapter in 1967 and state president in 1974. Since his retirement, Plank has continued to serve the Springfield community by working with the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield Foundation and the Community Center board.

MPSE history

Founded in 1937, MSPE represents all disciplines of engineering professionals. The organization is divided geographically into nine chapters and by specialty into five practice areas: construction, education, government, industry and private practice.

The society's primary objective is to enhance the image and well-being of its members through the advocacy of strong licensure laws, and the ethical and competent practice of engineering to protect the public health, safety and welfare.