Air Force recognizes Arnold-based propulsion engineer Published April 18, 2007 By Tech. Sgt. Beverly Isik Arnold Engineering Development Center Public Affairs ARNOLD AIR FORCE BASE, Tenn. -- An engineer from Arnold Engineering Development Center was selected as the Air Force Propulsion Engineer of the Year during an April 13 ceremony here. Ed Tucker, responsible test organization action officer for the 717th Test Squadron, provides technical oversight to program offices on various Department of Defense and civilian aircraft engines. Mr. Tucker was selected for the award, in part, for his work assisting NASA prepare and execute an F100 test, fostering a new level of cooperation between national engine test facilities. He also spearheaded the engine test planning group responsible for qualifying the B-52 Stratofortress on Fischer-Tropsch alternative fuel. Mr. Tucker's superiors said the test methodology he helped pioneer will smooth the progress of qualifying all DoD engines on the alternative fuel, eventually reducing the U.S. military's dependency on foreign oil. "Our role is to help solve their technical engine problems through test and evaluation," said Mr. Tucker, a former Air Force officer. "I help facilitate that." He recommends and advocates advanced technology methods to improve AEDC test and analysis capabilities to support weapon system acquisition, development and deployment, according to Col. Arthur Huber, the center's commander.