Celebrating Exceptional Contributions: The Distinguished Service Award
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Paul Sterk, a 36 year member of ISEE, was awarded the Distinguished Service Award at the 49th Annual ISEE Conference in San Antonio, TX, in 2023.
"It means a whole lot" Sterk said of receiving the award. "People recognize all the work you've done and it's a recognition of all that work, it was very humbling. You don't expect to get something that prestigious."
Paul has experience in all types of blasting. He started his career in the mining industry in northern Michigan, eventually transitioning to work as a driller blaster and gaining valuable experience in various blasting techniques at the Homestake Mining Company. Later in his career, Paul worked with Slurry Explosives, Orica, and Austin Powder, where he contributed to technical sales, risk management, and business development. Paul's passion for the field and his commitment to learning have led him to continue his career through consulting work and his current role as Director of International Sales at Stemlock.
During his time at Homestake, Paul became actively involved with the ISEE (previosuly SEE). Paul played a role in the establishment of the Black Hills chapter in 1991, which broke off from the Northern Plains chapter in Gillette, Wyoming. Both chapters shared a common goal of supporting the next generation of explosives engineers.
Paul believes in the importance of networking and learning from others in the industry. “Network network network" he says, "you can't know enough people in this business. Continue to learn...I'm almost 73 and I'm still going to conferences and still learning stuff...You can always learn."
Paul's passion for explosives engineering runs deep in his family. He discovered that he comes from a long line of miners, being the 19th generation in his family in the mining business. Continuing the legacy, his son proudly represents the 20th generation.
Looking back on his career, Paul shared a story of when he received a call from someone asking for help. He drew up a plan and faxed it to the person, not thinking anything of it, and ten years later, the same person recognized him and thanked him for the work he had done. "It's a small industry, but a helpful one," Paul said. "Never burn a bridge. You may be working for them next year."
The Distinguished Service Award is a testament to Paul's outstanding contributions to the field. Paul's dedication to explosives engineering has made a significant impact on the industry, and we are honored to have him as a valued member of our community.
