Biological Systems Engineering inducts six members into the Academy of Distinction

Travis Unterzuber

Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering, 1972

Travis “Rusty” Unterzuber is a leader in the agricultural and off-highway equipment industry, where he dedicated 45 years to innovation and excellence. His career began with New Holland Farm Equipment and later expanded at John Deere, where he played pivotal roles in product engineering and global process development, including a major initiative to transition the company to metric operations. Rusty’s journey in engineering leadership included significant contributions to the design and manufacturing of agricultural equipment and construction machinery. His work at John Deere was instrumental in implementing an enterprise-wide product delivery process that embodied the corporate philosophy of “design anywhere, build anywhere,” ensuring global success for the company.

Cathy Underwood

Masters of Science in Biological Systems Engineering, 2000

As the first female to lead Branch & Associates, Cathy’s 20 years of experience give her unparalleled insight into Branch’s operations. Her skills were invaluable in bringing complex projects to successful completion, including the $107.5 million Montgomery County Public Schools (VA) 3-School PPEA project as well as the $59 million Ridgeview High School/Middle School project in Dickenson County, Virginia. Cathy also pursued and led the company’s introductory LEAN construction project via Integrated Project Delivery. This experience directly resulted in the development of Branch’s LEAN-based Team Centered Planning (TCP) process, a collaborative approach that emphasizes maximizing value for the customer while minimizing waste.

Don Wells

Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering, 1965 

As a key player in advancing conservation efforts, Don Wells began his impactful career as a Watershed Planning Engineer with the Commonwealth of Virginia. His commitment to service was further demonstrated during his time in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1968, where he served as an engineer on a geographic specialist team. For 25 years, Don was instrumental in advancing conservation efforts in the Hanover-Caroline Conservation District. His influence extended to academia as he served on the inaugural Biological Systems Engineering Advisory Board from 1997 to 2003. Following years of service, Don received the Bobby Wilkinson Award for Soil and Water Conservation District Director in 2003. Additionally, he received a commendation from the Virginia Senate in 2023 for his exemplary service to both the Commonwealth and the nation as a dedicated conservationist.

John F. Reid

Masters of Science in Agricultural Engineering, 1982

John has been a leader in the technology industry and academia for over 35 years with a focus on sensing, automation, and control of food and agriculture systems. During his career at Deere and Company, he initiated the development of enterprise field robotics capabilities. In 2017, he was recognized as a John Deere Technical Fellow for his contributions to Technology Innovation. John’s time at Brunswick Corporation saw him responsible for building organizational capabilities that enabled initial product in vessel electrification and autonomy. Throughout his career, he has been awarded 30 patents in respect to agricultural systems sensing, automation, and control.

Ann Kenimer

Masters of Science in Agricultural Engineering, 1987

With over 30 years at Texas A&M University, Ann significantly advanced undergraduate education, serving as Associate Provost for Undergraduate Studies from 2012 to 2022. She played a key role in establishing the Academic Success Center and expanding academic programs at the Higher Education Center at McAllen, Texas, increasing enrollment from 28 to 340 students by 2022. Ann's dedication to student success is evident in programs like Aggies Thrive, which supports at-risk undergraduates. A recognized educator, she has received numerous awards, including the ASABE A. W. Farrall Young Educator Award and the Texas A&M Presidential Professor for Teaching Excellence. As a Fellow of ASABE and ABET, Ann continues to impact the academic community through her leadership in accreditation and educational reform initiatives.

Kelly Bulloch

Bachelors of Science in Biological Systems Engineering, 1998

Since joining Kimley-Horn in 1998, Kelly has built a remarkable 26-year career, serving in various roles as a professional engineer. She has addressed diverse project challenges, including stormwater improvements and utility extensions, while driving the growth of the Lakeland, FL, office and managing over 30 professionals in complex land development projects. Notably, she was the lead civil engineer for the acclaimed Streamsong Golf Resort, transforming reclaimed mine land into a premier retreat. A dedicated community servant, Kelly was the first recipient of the Harold D. Vick Community Service Award and actively supports organizations like Habitat for Humanity.