Josh Howard Named PSPE’s Young Engineer of the Year

POTTSVILLE, PA—Benesch Project Engineer Josh Howard has been named the 2025 Young Engineer of the Year by the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers (PSPE). This annual honor is awarded to an engineer under the age of 35 who demonstrates exceptional engineering achievement, active participation in technical and professional societies and meaningful contributions to the community.

Josh joined Benesch after earning his civil engineering degree from Villanova University in 2017 and has become a trusted expert in hydrologic and hydraulic analysis. He’s played key roles on major infrastructure projects, including the I-95 bridge collapse emergency response, a $310 million bridge rehabilitation near Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station and numerous municipal bridge replacements in northeastern Pennsylvania.

In addition to his technical expertise, Josh is deeply committed to supporting the next generation of engineers. For the past seven years, he has served as coordinator for the PSPE Anthracite Chapter MATHCOUNTS Competition, an annual event that brings together middle school students from across Schuylkill County to build math skills and confidence. He also volunteers as a judge for the local K’Nex STEM Design Challenge, a hands-on competition that promotes interest in STEM fields by having students tackle real-world problems using K’Nex, a toy system of interlocking plastic pieces.

Josh’s commitment to community involvement and professional engagement extends well beyond the classroom. He is an active member of the American Society of Highway Engineers, regularly attending meetings to connect with fellow professionals and gain insights from industry experts. He also participates in the Curvey Coalition’s annual Anthracite Coal Strike Day of Service. Last year, he helped paint more than 100 fire hydrants in Mahanoy City. As the municipal engineering representative for Foster Township, Josh works on infrastructure projects that directly serve the community. He’s currently assisting the township in securing grant funding for a new pickleball court and playground upgrades.

Josh accepted the Young Engineer of the Year award during the PSPE State Conference on September 19 in Allentown, PA.