OMAHA, Neb. -- In the heart of Omaha, a keen and youthful mechanical engineer, Adam Nebelsick, has embarked on his first career step forward as a member of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District. With an unwavering passion for engineering and a commitment to professional growth, Adam has quickly become an involved member of the Special Projects Branch, Petroleum, Oils, and Lubricants Mandatory Center of Expertise since joining the district in January of this year.
Born and raised in Omaha, Adam lived in Huntsville, Alabama from 2011-2016 where his father worked for the USACE Huntsville District. This early exposure to the organization laid the foundation for his future career, and his subsequent academic journey. Adam attended the University of Nebraska – Lincoln where he majored in mechanical engineering and minored in mathematics, graduating in December of 2022.
One of the standout facets of Adam's experience since joining the district is his deep appreciation for the diversity of technical backgrounds he encounters within the organization.
“My role as a mechanical (fuels) engineer has allowed me to collaborate with professionals from various engineering disciplines, including civil, structural, electrical, and mechanical,” said Adam. “This interdisciplinary collaboration has significantly expanded my knowledge base and enriched my understanding of complex engineering challenges.”
A driving force behind Adam's early success is USACE’s commitment to providing and prioritizing abundant resources for professional development. The Corps empowers its employees in pursuing continued education through reimbursable class and exam fees. These courses prepare individuals for the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and Principles and Practice of Engineering exam, both of which must be passed to be licensed as a Professional Engineer in the United States.
A top priority at the Omaha District is the pursuit of professional growth, and accordingly, Adam has set both short-term and long-term goals during his tenure. His most recent achievement? Successfully passing the Thermal and Fluid Systems Professional Engineer exam in May, a testament to his dedication and expertise. Looking ahead, he aims to become a certified American Petroleum Institute pressure vessel inspector, piping inspector, or an aboveground storage tank inspector, based on the specific needs of the POL-MCX. Adam is committed to mastering the intricacies of piping, valves, storage tanks, and drawings – essential components of his current and future roles at USACE.
Looking forward, Adam envisions becoming a licensed PE and further enhancing his credentials through years of work experience at the Omaha District. His long-term ambition also includes the possibility of a European deployment to support the Nation’s national defense efforts and fueling operations.
Adam mentioned that his POL-MCX supervisor, Dustin Scheuffele, has been instrumental in encouraging and facilitating his professional growth, a testament to the supportive and collaborative environment fostered at the Omaha District.
“My goal for all new mechanical engineers in the POL-MCX Fuels Engineering Support Branch is to bridge the gap between what they learned in college and what they need to be successful as a mechanical engineer in this industry, said Dustin.” “They can do this by taking advantage of the many available trainings and a world-class cadre of professionals to seek advice from. What is also important for my new engineers is that they understand what they are doing supports the Department of Defense and Nation with its larger missions.”
Joining USACE means gaining a legacy of service, where your skills and passions can shape our nation's infrastructure and safeguard its future. We invest in our people’s success through ongoing training, mentorship, and support. As part of our organization, your journey is our priority. Whether you're an engineer, environmental specialist, project manager, or in any other role, we provide opportunities for advancement and a nurturing environment for you to thrive.
Join us in engineering a brighter tomorrow and making a world of difference. Discover a fulfilling career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where recruitment and retention come together to forge a path of excellence and lasting global impact.
To learn more about our current opportunities, visit: https://www.nwo.usace.army.mil/Careers/