PARSIPPANY, N.J. (March 23, 2017)—The Hydraulic Institute (HI) Board of Directors named Michael Coussens, director of development and chief engineer at Peerless Pump Company, as its 2016 Member of the Year.

Coussens received the award during HI’s 2017 Annual Conference & Centennial Celebration Gala held March 10 at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida.

Michael CoussensMichael Coussens (center), director of development and chief engineer at Peerless Pump Company receives the Hydraulic Institute’s 2016 Member of the Year Award from HI Technical Affairs Director Pete Gaydon (left) and HI Technical Affairs Vice President Mick Cropper. (Courtesy of Hydraulic Institute)

HI in a statement said Coussens was selected for his dedication to HI standards development, volunteerism and his many significant technical contributions to the industry. He has held leadership positions on more than eight technical committees over the past eight years.

His current leadership positions include:

  • Chair of Rotodynamic Pump Design & Operation Section
  • Vice-Chair Standards Committee
  • Chair 9.6.7 Effects of Liquid Viscosity on Rotodynamic Pump Performance
  • Co-Chair 14.3 Rotodynamic Pump Design & Application
  • Co-Chair 40.7 HI Program Guide for HI Pump Test Laboratory Approval
  • Vice-Chair Fire Pump Committee
  • Vice-Chair 14.6 Rotodynamic Pump Test

HI Technical Director Pete Gaydon said, “Michael distinguishes himself by the level and extent of his leadership to advance the technical work of HI on many levels. With his calm demeanor and attention to detail, he has been a great mentor and role model for our young engineers. His tireless dedication to standards development and many significant technical contributions to the industry sets him apart.”