The Coast Guard is seeking nominations for its 2017 Capt. Niels P Thomsen Innovation Awards on its crowdsourcing platform CG_Ideas@Work.
Nominations must present an innovative approach to solving Coast Guard strategic needs. All Coast Guard active duty, reserve, civilian and auxiliary personnel are eligible to submit ideas for consideration, and contractors’ contributions may be acknowledged when part of a project team.
The Innovation Awards will be given in five categories: science or technology, operations or readiness, administration, training or support, culture change and the Cmdr. Joel Magnussen Innovation Award for Management.
Nominations should not exceed 250 words and the idea submission form must include the nominee’s name and unit as well as a point of contact name and e-mail address. Ideas previously presented for CG_Ideas@Work challenges will automatically be considered for the awards and do not need to be nominated.
Last year’s winners included a hammer hook that reduces clutter on deck, making it easier to switch between two frequently used tools and the Coast Guard Communications Portable Alignment Fixture 3 TMR-1090 300W Linear Power Amplifier. The device simplifies a common maintenance procedure on medium-endurance cutters.
Nominations can be submitted until April 18, and any queries should be directed to Innovation Program Manager Cmdr. Andy Howell.