Steven Garner, was recently recognized by Pumps & Systems magazine as an up-and-coming professional as part of its “10 To Watch” feature.

Garner said he was honored to be included among other pump professionals.

“I was honestly shocked to hear that I had been nominated and selected for this, and I am grateful to everyone who has helped me reach this point of my career,” he said. “It feels great to receive this kind of recognition, and I am very much appreciative to those who nominated me.”

Dennis Perry, an engineering manager, said Garner was worthy of the honor for his work on these critical components.

Pumps are important factors in dozens of shipboard systems, moving liquids for everything from reactor cooling to drinking water, Perry explained. Pumps and the motors that drive them require experience in fluid mechanics and electrical power. Electromechanical engineers develop the combination of skills to effectively manage these components.

Garner, when asked about the industry’s future, said additive manufacturing can be a promising alternative, especially when considering supply chain and material sourcing issues. “The idea of manufacturing equipment cheaper with the same or greater quality should have everyone excited,” he told the magazine.

Garner said he owes some of his success to Dan Harris, who was a senior engineer when Garner started at the shipyard, and who later became Garner’s supervisor.

“He had a vast knowledge of pumps and he challenged me every day to become a better engineer,” Garner said. “He is the reason I am the engineer and pump professional I am today, and I will be forever grateful.”

Garner has been visually impaired his entire life, but that hasn’t stood in his way.

“I will not let my impairment control my life,” he said.” I hope people will be able to look at me and be inspired to take on any challenge that may face them.”