PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Engineers’ Club of Philadelphia has recognized two remarkable leaders for their contributions to the engineering profession and the community. Dr. Zenaida Otero Gephardt, PhD, PE, has been named the 2025 Delaware Valley Engineer of the Year, and Ms. Jaclyn Whelan, PE, has been awarded the title of 2025 Delaware Valley Young Engineer of the Year. These honors were presented as part of the annual Delaware Valley Engineers Week, observed from February 13-22, in conjunction with the national celebration of Engineers Week.
Dr. Zenaida Otero Gephardt, 2025 Delaware Valley Engineer of the Year
Dr. Gephardt, professor emeritus of chemical engineering at Rowan University, has dedicated more than 35 years to advancing engineering education and fostering collaboration between academia and industry. Elected by representatives from local multidisciplinary engineering and technical societies, Dr. Gephardt epitomizes professional excellence, civic leadership, and community stewardship.
“I am deeply honored,” Dr. Gephardt shared. “It’s humbling to be recognized among such esteemed past winners. While the award is an individual honor, I believe it’s the support of my family, friends, mentors, and colleagues that has played a crucial role in my success.”
Dr. Gephardt’s career highlights include her foundational role in shaping Rowan University’s engineering programs. She co-authored the chemical engineering curriculum, oversaw the development of every engineering discipline, and played an instrumental role in designing the university’s state-of-the-art engineering building. She also spearheaded Rowan’s first international engineering clinic, leading a team of students in developing sustainable aquaculture solutions alongside Chilean researchers and farmers.
Beyond academia, Dr. Gephardt has left a lasting mark on global engineering standards through her work with the Latin American and Caribbean Consortium of Engineering Institutions, where she developed accreditation initiatives and facilitated workshops with the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET). Her achievements have earned numerous accolades, including recognition as a fellow of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and recipient of the Eminent Engineer Award from the AIChE Minority Affairs Committee.
Ms. Jaclyn Whelan, 2025 Delaware Valley Young Engineer of the Year
Ms. Whelan, PE, a design project manager at the Consolidated Rail Corporation (Conrail), has demonstrated extraordinary skill and leadership in managing multi-million-dollar infrastructure projects critical to the region’s transportation networks. A Drexel University and Villanova University alumna, Whelan integrates technical expertise with a passion for advancing the role of women in engineering.
“Being recognized by the Engineers’ Club of Philadelphia is an amazing honor,” Whelan said. “It’s a privilege to be acknowledged by one of the oldest professional clubs in the nation and be included in the ranks of many inspiring people.”
With over a decade of experience, Whelan has led projects spanning bridge replacements, yard expansions, environmental remediation, and utility upgrades. Since joining Conrail in 2021, she has navigated complex engineering challenges while ensuring operational efficiency and safety.
Whelan’s contributions extend to advocacy and mentoring. Inspired by her love of railroading, she launched the “Women Who Love Trains” panel in 2023 to amplify the voices of women in the transportation industry. The initiative gained widespread recognition, culminating in its presentation at the 2024 AREMA Conference. She is also an active member of the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) Philadelphia Chapter, where she serves as vice president.
Recognizing Excellence, Inspiring the Future
The Engineers’ Club of Philadelphia’s recognition of Dr. Gephardt and Ms. Whelan highlights the profound impact of their work on the engineering profession and the community. Through their leadership and dedication, they continue to set a high bar for innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity in engineering.
Both honorees are poised to make further contributions that will inspire the next generation of engineers, ensuring a future of growth, empowerment, and impactful advancements in their respective fields.
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