Vittorio “Vic” Ricci, who has worked for the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) for more than 37 years, received a Distinguished Achievement Award from the University of Rhode Island on Oct. 22.
Ricci earned a master’s degree and a doctorate from URI in mechanical engineering and applied mechanics in 1996 and 2001, respectively.
“It’s an honor to receive this award from URI and the College of Engineering,” said Ricci, who is the chief technology officer at NUWC’s Headquarters in Newport. “It is the most humbling and a profound moment in my life.”
Ricci acknowledged the impact the College of Engineering has had on him personally and professionally.
“This award is the product of support and effort by so many people,” said Ricci. “People like Professor Arun Shukla have shaped me through formal education, and long-lasting collaboration and friendship.”
The College of Engineering has benefited greatly from the relationship Ricci has maintained throughout the years.
“Vic has stayed highly engaged with his alma mater,” said College of Engineering Dean Anthony Marchese. “With Vic’s leadership, NUWC has supported numerous electrical and computer engineering capstone design projects and has a long partnership agreement with URI, which leads to opportunities for our students and creates a pipeline of talent for NUWC.”
Ricci has been an integral advisor during the creation of, and the success of, the National Institute for Undersea Vehicle Technology, a collaboration between URI, the University of Connecticut, General Dynamics Electric Boat, the U.S. Navy, and many other Rhode Island industrial partners.
“It’s very rewarding to work with the University and College of Engineering to share insight on national security needs and to interact with the many bright and talented students — our next-generation workforce,” Ricci said.
As chief technology officer, Ricci serves as the senior science and technology advisor for the command and is responsible for guiding the Division’s involvement and investments in science and technology.