On May 31, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, Heidi Shyu, honored Eric Evans with the Department of Defense (DoD) Medal for Distinguished Public Service. This prestigious award, the highest given by the Secretary of Defense to private citizens, recognizes significant contributions to the DoD. Evans earned this accolade due to his exemplary leadership as the director of MIT Lincoln Laboratory and his roles as vice chair and chair of the Defense Science Board (DSB).
In her speech at the ceremony held at the laboratory, Shyu remarked, “I have gained a deep appreciation for Eric over the past three years. His leadership style, proactive approach, vision, intelligence, and humility are remarkable. Eric demonstrates a unique ability to tackle and resolve complex national security challenges. His exceptional public service will have lasting impacts on both the department and the nation for years to come.”
Throughout his more than ten years in leadership roles, Evans has built strong connections within the DoD, advising eight defense secretaries and seven deputy defense secretaries since taking the helm at Lincoln Laboratory in 2006. Under his visionary guidance, the laboratory has advanced national security capabilities across various technological domains, including cybersecurity, space surveillance, biodefense, artificial intelligence, laser communications, and quantum computing.
Evans has been dedicated to not only meeting existing DoD priorities but also addressing emerging challenges. Recognizing future needs, he established three new divisions focused on Cyber Security and Information Sciences, Homeland Protection, and Biotechnology and Human Systems. When the Covid-19 pandemic emerged, he swiftly redirected laboratory efforts to support the national response. His advocacy for modernized testing facilities included upgrades to the Reagan Test Site, where the laboratory serves as a scientific advisor, and obtaining funding for cutting-edge facilities like the Compound Semiconductor Laboratory – Microsystem Integration Facility. Evans further strengthened collaboration with the MIT campus to promote innovation and enhance educational opportunities, preparing the future workforce in STEM fields for the DoD.
Simultaneously, Evans played a vital role on the DSB, the premier advisory board for science and technology for DoD senior leaders. Serving as vice chair from 2014 to 2020 and chair since 2020, he has overseen over 30 studies critical to the DoD, notably launching a new Strategic Options Permanent Subcommittee aimed at identifying essential systems and technologies to meet future defense needs.
Commenting on the award, Ian Waitz, MIT’s vice president for research, stated, “The medal beautifully symbolizes Eric’s invaluable contributions to both MIT and national security.”
As Evans prepares to transition from his role as Lincoln Laboratory director on July 1 to a professor of practice at MIT, he will continue to foster connections between the laboratory and the MIT campus, further collaborating with DoD leaders to shape the future of national security.
Photo credit & article inspired by: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
