We are pleased to announce Aaron Simmons, PE of Douglas County has been named the 2026 County Engineer of the Year.
Since 1967, the agency has presented the award annually to recognize outstanding performance in engineering expertise, leadership, community engagement and industry involvement. Mr. Simmons was nominated by the Douglas County Board of Commissioners.
County Commissioner Scott shared that:
“He has shown exceptional commitment to community engagement and intergovernmental collaboration, making a lasting impact to the county and its residents. The results of his work are clearly evident across multiple projects and outcomes. He consistently demonstrates a strong awareness of the county's rapid growth while strategically balancing current priorities with future needs, effectively bridging immediate community demands with long-term planning.”
His leadership has been demonstrated through several significant infrastructure projects that have had lasting impacts on the region. The McNeil Canyon Road project required careful planning, coordination, and execution to improve safety and reliability for the traveling public. The US 97 Cascade Roundabout project enhanced traffic operations and safety along a critical transportation corridor, requiring extensive coordination among multiple agencies and stakeholders. Following the devastating Upper Pearl Hill Fire, Aaron provided leadership and oversight for the reconstruction of the Upper Pearl Hill Bridge, restoring a vital transportation link for residents and supporting the community's recovery during a difficult time.
He has also played a leading role in the Wenatchi Landing project, a transformative regional initiative.
His Commissioners write, “Aaron was instrumental in presenting the project to key state and federal leaders, including U.S. Senator Patty Murray, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, and U.S. Representative Dan Newhouse. His role in clearly communicating the project vision and benefits to these decision-makers was a key factor in securing broad support. Aaron also traveled to Washington, D.C. in both 2024 and 2025 alongside the Douglas County Board of Commissioners to further advocate for federal funding. These combined efforts resulted in Douglas County securing a $10 million Congressionally Directed Spending grant-an unprecedented achievement for the County.
Aaron has been instrumental in building and maintaining strong relationships with partner agencies, stakeholders, and elected officials. His ability to communicate effectively, advocate for community needs, and align diverse interests has been critical to advancing major infrastructure and economic development projects.
These projects represent more than engineering achievements. They reflect Aaron's commitment to serving the public, solving complex problems, and delivering infrastructure that communities depend upon every day.
As County Engineer, Aaron has provided exceptional oversight of transportation and public works projects while maintaining a strong focus on safety, fiscal responsibility, and long-term stewardship of public resources. His thoughtful decision-making and commitment to excellence have earned the respect of colleagues across the state.
The award was presented during the Engineers Awards Banquet at the 2026 Washington State Association of County Engineers Annual Conference in Longview, WA. Nominations for the award were accepted across the state from county commissioners, councilmembers and the WSACE board of directors and, at the discretion of the review committee each year, may be divided into Rural and Urban categories.
As I shared at the gathering of County Engineers from across Washington, this is one of my favorite parts of my job: recognizing county staff for their outstanding work in professional engineering. Beyond the projects and accomplishments, Aaron is known for his integrity, humility, and willingness to support others. He serves as a mentor, a problem solver, and a leader who consistently places the needs of his community first. His contributions have strengthened not only the infrastructure he oversees but also the profession he represents.
Please join me in congratulating Aaron!
Jane Wall
Executive Director