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UROC Engineer Earns Newcomer Award

Mckenzie Crandall, a test engineer with the University of Maryland’s Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Research and Operations Center (UROC), has been named the 2025 Newcomer of the Year by the A. James Clark School of Engineering.

Mckenzie doing engine testing with the UROC Penguin B VTOL


Since joining UROC in April 2024, Mckenzie has quickly become a key contributor to the center’s research, operations, and outreach efforts. A proud University of Maryland alumna, she has strengthened team operations and supported major research initiatives.

Mckenzie acting as the Control Station Operator of a UROC VTOL systemAs a test engineer for the Chesapeake UAS Route Network project, Mckenzie leads the development and integration of advanced uncrewed aircraft systems. Her work on the Penguin-B UAS includes custom avionics, sensors, and mission-specific hardware, as well as oversight of testing and evaluation. 

It's really great to see what we do here at UROC be recognized by the greater Clark School. UROC sometimes flies under the radar (pun certainly intended) given that we are located in Southern Maryland, so I am really happy that this award will help bring some attention to all the important work we do down here!


Beyond her technical contributions, Mckenzie developed a project-tracking tool now used by UROC leadership to streamline planning and coordination across programs. She continues to identify workflow improvements that enhance efficiency across engineering and operations teams.


Mckenzie is also dedicated to mentorship and outreach. She plays an active role in guiding summer interns, supporting student engineering teams, and participating in STEM engagement efforts.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, she is currently pursuing a master’s degree in robotics at the University of Maryland.Mckenzie working on the UROC Penguin B VTOL avionics bay.


In less than two years, Mckenzie has made a lasting impact on UROC’s mission and culture, exemplifying the excellence recognized by the Clark School’s Newcomer of the Year Staff Award.


She will be recognized at the Spring Faculty and Staff Recognition Ceremony on May 13.

Published April 16, 2026