ACC recognizes Nellis scientist Published May 22, 2009 By Airman 1st Class Charles 99 Air Base Wing Public Affairs NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- Over the years many scientists and engineers have been able to create or improve technology for the sole purpose of making everyday tasks that must be completed easier. Science and technology advancements have been hallmarks of the United States since its creation. Every year Air Combat Command recognizes warriors of technology and innovation with its yearly science, technology and engineering award. These awards recognize significant accomplishments in science, engineering and research and development, as well as science and engineering education in support of the Air Force mission. This year Nellis was home to a recipient of one of these awards. Mrs. Deana Nickerson, a 59 Test and Evaluation Squadron F-22 Raptor operations research analyst, was selected as the Air Combat Command level recipient of the Junior Level civilian scientist award. She will be receiving the award for her job of determining operational effectiveness and suitability of newly acquired weapons systems in an operational environment. The leadership at the 59 TES submitted Mrs. Nickerson's award package to the wing and it was sent up to ACC for recommendation. "I was shocked to learn that I won," said Mrs. Nickerson. "I am very honored. I work with a group of really good scientists and any one of them could have won the award also. We work with each other to make each other better." For three years Mrs. Nickerson assisted pilots in designing tests and performing statistical analysis of data in order to reach tactical conclusions and provide fielding recommendations. "This recognition tells me that my organization is happy with my data products," said Mrs. Nickerson. "If I do my job well, the pilots are getting the right information. The tactical decisions made based on our testing could mean the difference between life and death." The scientists and engineers of the U.S. Air force continue to reach new levels of technology and innovation through extensive research. In a world where our nation's threats are constantly changing, our engineers and scientists are a valuable asset to accomplishing the U.S. Air Force mission to fly, flight and win in air, space and cyberspace. The awards ceremony place and date will be announced at a later time.