The Professional Achievement Award recognizes individuals in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) who have made significant contributions and are considered leaders in STEM initiatives within their respective organizations.

U.S. Air Force Major Roderick D. Irvin has had an illustrious military career and is a 2024 winner of this award.

Currently, he is the branch chief for the program execution division at the Sentinel Systems Directorate of the Air Force Nuclear Weapon Center at Hill Air Force Base in Utah.

His leadership and technical skills have been essential in the development, production, and deployment of critical networks and cyber designs for airborne, nuclear, and missile launch capabilities.

Additionally, Major Irvin is a mentor and has extensive experience in cybersecurity and engineering, having served as a communications security systems engineer and in cyber weapon integration operations for the National Security Agency and the 7th Intelligence Squadron.

Growing up in a small town with only one stoplight in Trenton, North Carolina, surrounded by cotton and tobacco fields, Major Irvin is humbled by his achievement and what it represents.

He believes that this recognition is a reflection of the dedication, hard work, and passion that define public service and demonstrates that complex challenges facing our communities and nation can be addressed through perseverance, innovation, and collaboration.

Major Irvin is grateful for the inspiration and guidance provided by the youth, his peers, mentors, and military leaders who have supported him in his journey. He considers this recognition as a shared achievement with all of them.