CAPT David J. Obermeier, USCG
Award: Gold Medal Award - Engineering
Year: 2023
Recipient: CAPT David J. Obermeier, USCG
Reason: for hid significant contribution to naval engineering as set forth in the following
CITATION:
Captain David J. Obermeier has made a profound impact on naval engineering throughout a career marked by technical acumen, strategic foresight, and transformational leadership. As the Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard Yard—the sole shipbuilding and repair facility of the United States Coast Guard—CAPT Obermeier led a workforce of over 700 military, civilian, and contract personnel during a period of increasing operational demands, aging infrastructure, and budgetary challenges.
A graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy with a degree in Civil Engineering, CAPT Obermeier holds advanced degrees in Civil Engineering, Business Administration, and Engineering Management from the University of Illinois and MIT. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE), Project Management Professional (PMP), and holds multiple other credentials that underpin his record of engineering excellence and success.
Under his leadership, the Coast Guard Yard executed more than 650 industrial and engineering projects valued at $337 million, supporting 230 cutter renovations and weapon system overhauls—18% of all Coast Guard depot-level maintenance. His focus on innovation and fiscal stewardship resulted in the service’s first diesel engine overhaul facility and preparations for a $22 million dry-dock availability line were initiatives that fill critical market gaps and reduced downtime for patrol vessels.
CAPT Obermeier’s people-first approach ensured on-time delivery of 28 vessels while safeguarding the well-being of his team -- while managing a 25 % workforce reduction during the COVID-19 pandemic. His proactive engagement with Congress, the Department of Homeland Security, industry leaders, and professional societies generated unprecedented visibility and support for the Coast Guard’s $636 million Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Plan—an enduring investment in maritime readiness.
Beyond infrastructure and programmatic achievements, CAPT Obermeier has shown passionate commitment to mentorship and workforce development. He expanded partnerships with inner-city schools, introduced maritime curriculum enhancements, and authored a Congressional workforce development plan to guide the Yard’s evolution over the next decade. His active role in internship programs and young professional mentorship initiatives reflected his dedication to building the next generation of naval engineers.
CAPT Obermeier exemplifies the rare blend of technical mastery, compassionate leadership, and strategic clarity that defines the finest in naval engineering.
The American Society of Naval Engineers is honored to recognize CAPT Obermeier’s extraordinary contributions to the maritime profession, to the United States Coast Guard, and to the Nation through the presentation of the 2024 Gold Medal Award for Engineering.