A Lake City computer scientist who spent a decade developing software that enhances the data and graphics of scientists around the world was named as one of the Commerce Department's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's research office's employees of the year.

Steve Hankin, who works at NOAA's Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory in Seattle, Wash., is one of seven individuals who received this annual award during an Oct. 11 ceremony in Silver Spring, Md.

"Steve's dedication and hard work resulted in the development of tools that benefit scientists as well as the general public," said David L. Evans, NOAA assistant administrator of oceanic and atmospheric research. "I am proud to recognize Steve for his achievement and his strong contribution to our mission."

Hankin's award comes for his development and leadership of the Ferret scientific analysis and visualization software over the past decade. Ferret allows the user to investigate and compare large and complex data sets and produce publication-quality graphics that are used by NOAA scientists as well as their colleagues around the world.

"After years of hard work, it is gratifying to see that my work is making a difference," Hankin said. "This award is tangible encouragement that you are on the right track."

Hankin, a computer scientist, has worked at PMEL since 1984.

The Commerce Department's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is dedicated to enhancing economic security and national safety through the prediction and research of weather and climate-related events and providing environmental stewardship of our nation's coastal and marine resources.

To learn more, visit: http://www.noaa.gov.