John J. Sammarco, Ph.D., is a finalist for a prestigious Service to America medal — commonly known as a “Sammie.” He’s nominated in the Career Achievement category for his exceptional record of public service. Winners will be announced at the nonprofit’s annual gala on October 2. An electrical engineer by training, Dr. Sammarco and has focused his work on improving the challenging lighting conditions in underground mines. His most recent work has produced a number of game-changing lighting innovations to improve visibility and reduce glare, thereby making it easier for workers to see hazards around them. His first innovative lighting technology was an improved light-emitting diode (LED) cap lamp design, which offers a more intense spot beam and overall broader light coverage than previous cap lamp designs. It’s turned out to be an overwhelming success. Sammarco has also used LEDs to develop an innovative machine-mounted device called the Saturn area light that cuts glare, improves visibility, and helps workers see hazards more readily. More area light designs are also in the works.
(img: John J. Sammarco)
