RICHLAND, Wash. - Valerie McCain, project director of the Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant (WTP) and a Bechtel senior vice president at the Hanford Site, died on March 26 following a short illness.
“Val was highly respected, exemplified our One Hanford spirit and consistently inspired all who were lucky enough to serve with her," said Brian Vance, manager of EM’s Office of River Protection and Richland Operations Office. “She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered for her profound influence on our team and our important work."
Since joining the WTP in October 2018, McCain led a team of 2,250 employees in completing all construction for the Direct-Feed Low-Activity Waste Program. The team transitioned to commissioning and ramping up the commissioning workforce before shifting to a 24/7 operational culture. Team members managed through the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing to advance the mission. McCain’s leadership recently culminated in the highest-ever rating for the project’s performance from DOE just a week prior to her death.
McCain also served on the boards of organizations such as the Energy Facility Contractors Group, Tri-Cities Development Council, STEM Foundation and Columbia Industries.
McCain passed away while surrounded by her family.
Source: U.S. Dept. of Energy, Office of Environmental Management