Photo By Petty Officer 2nd Class Keyly Santizo | W. Eric Cannon, P.E., poses for a photos Jan. 8, 2025. Cannon was recognized as the...... read more read more
Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Europe, Africa, Central (EURAFCENT) announced W. Eric Cannon, P.E., as its 2025 Engineer of the Year, Jan. 9.
The NAVFAC Engineer of the Year program recognizes the outstanding achievements and contributions of engineers within NAVFAC, who demonstrate excellence in technical expertise, leadership, and innovation.
"Congratulations to Eric for his outstanding dedication, unwavering professionalism, and exceptional service to our command and the Navy," Capt. Rafael Miranda, commanding officer, NAVFAC EURAFCENT said. "Eric's tireless efforts have been instrumental in providing top-notch technical support, expert analysis, and effective community management, while ensuring consistency and adherence to policy across the Area of Operations."
Cannon delivers critical design and consultation services, supporting over $627 million in projects and providing $1.5 million in annual engineering consultation services to key stakeholders. He spearheads EURAFCENT's critical infrastructure programs, leveraging his technical expertise and leadership to ensure the integrity and operational readiness of naval facilities.
"Eric’s contributions have been crucial in enabling us to deliver NAVFAC SYSCOM capabilities with precision and excellence to the Fleet," Mary Austin, acting director NAVFAC EURAFCENT Planning Design and Construction said. "I am grateful for his commitment to our mission, which is routinely acknowledged by supported commands."
Cannon currently manages an $80 million portfolio of 22 projects, leads a team of nine engineers, and has delivered high-impact results through initiatives like the At-Risk Facilities Structural Inspections Program, spanning seven region installations.
“I think that's what happens here - you have to wear many different hats to get the work done,” Cannon said. “I think leadership recognized my ability to take on different roles, be successful, and keep things moving. I do my best to ensure everyone else can be successful and accomplish our mission here."
Cannon added that he has a hard time taking credit for his achievements.
“The reality is, I relied heavily on my teammates,” Cannon said. “Everyone at EURAFCENT has been wearing multiple hats, and it's hard to say I'm doing better than everyone else who is picking up the slack. My ability to be named Engineer of the Year really depended on the rest of the team stepping up and doing their part.”
Cannon, a native of Jacksonville, Fla., currently serves as EURAFCENT’s assistant chief engineer. He began his career with NAVFAC in 2008 after working as a structural engineer in the private sector. Cannon graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) and a Master of Engineering with a Structural Engineering focus.
"Working with NAVFAC has been an exciting and challenging experience,” Cannon said. “Being with EURAFCENT has allowed me to take on more responsibilities and explore new opportunities. I've been able to own projects, like the Facility Structural Inspection Program, and continue to grow my capabilities as an engineer.”
Cannon said, with the support of NAVFAC leaders, he has had the freedom to try new things, make mistakes, and learn from his experiences, “It's been a great way to grow and develop as a professional engineer."
Being recognized as the Engineer of the Year has seen Cannon asking himself, 'Why me?' when there, as he says, are many others around him who are also working very hard and have helped him get where he is today.
“You don't realize how challenging it can be until you're here at EURAFCENT, but it's truly like a family,” Cannon said. “Everyone is working towards the same goal, and I'm grateful for the hard work that my teammates put in every day. I really appreciate the opportunity to be here, and I want to thank all those who have helped me get to where I am today."
About Naval Facilities Engineering Command Europe Africa Central
Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command is the naval shore facilities, base operating support, and expeditionary engineering systems command delivering life-cycle technical and acquisition solutions aligned to fleet and Marine Corps priorities. NAVFAC EURAFCENT supports fleet commanders by providing engineering assessments and agile acquisition strategy, constructing and maintaining shore infrastructure, and maximizing force readiness to enhance warfighter capability. NAVFAC EURAFCENT serves as the engineering link between the shore and the Fleet in the European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility.
For more information, contact NAVFAC EURAFCENT public affairs at +39 366.695.8800 or NAVFAC-EAC-PAO@us.navy.mil.
| Date Taken: | 01.17.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 01.21.2025 02:38 |
| Story ID: | 489244 |
| Location: | NAPLES, IT |
| Hometown: | JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA, US |
| Web Views: | 142 |
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