Photo By Shannon R Hodges | U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District Engineering Technician Jackson...... read more read more
For Jackson Jenkins, creativity doesn’t stop when he clocks in…or out of his job as an engineering technician for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. With a background in industrial design from James Madison University, Jenkins has always had a passion for seeing his work come to life. That’s something that’s held true whether he’s working on Star Wars helmets reimagined in James Madison’s school colors in his spare time, or on the job with USACE’s Middle East District, perfecting models for defense infrastructure projects that span countries across the Middle East.
That work involves revising and reviewing plans covering multiple disciplines using engineering software, skills strengthened through years of hands-on experience.
Jenkins feels his hobbies make him better at his job because they hone both his technical skills using the same engineering software he uses at work, and his creativity. This ultimately provides a better product for the Middle East District’s mission partners.
“To be successful in this field, I believe one must be creative, detail-oriented, and resilient—someone who takes pride in solving complex problems and bringing ideas to life through both design and technical precision,” said Jenkins. “My design and fabrication experiences have taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of craftsmanship. Each project requires careful planning, methodical execution, and a commitment to high standards of quality.”
He explained that “These traits directly also align with the responsibilities of an Engineering Technician with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Innovation, accuracy, and collaboration are essential to developing and maintaining the critical infrastructure we build. My background enables me to visualize complex projects, utilize technical tools effectively, and approach every challenge with both creativity and discipline.”
Since joining the District, Jenkins has found professional satisfaction in the detailed technical reviews he works on. Something his coworkers have noticed as well.
“Jackson is and will be my go-to professional for any CAD (an engineering software program) support,” said Kasidit Chansawat, a Structural Engineer with the District. “He’s been working on a helicopter alert facilities complex for one of our mission partners, and his work is always efficient, quick, and accurate.”
David Rackmales, the chief of the Middle East District’s Technical Services Branch, echoed that sentiment saying that adding an industrial designer to his team was a great decision.
“I recruited Jackson at a Laurel Ridge Community College job fair in the Spring of 2024. What impressed me about him was his background in industrial design, along with his AutoCAD certification which he earned after graduating from JMU. I have a few colleagues back in New York who are industrial designers, so I was familiar with the field and knew that the blend of creativity and practicality characterizing the profession could not be passed up! I realized that he would be an excellent fit for our Advanced Modeling Team. Jackson has certainly proven me right!"
The Middle East District provides design, engineering and construction services to the U.S. military and allied nation partners across the Middle East, and Jenkins’ attention to detail combined with creativity continues the tradition of excellence that USACE is known for.
| Date Taken: | 11.19.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 11.19.2025 10:39 |
| Story ID: | 551698 |
| Location: | WINCHESTER, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 17 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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