Lt. Cmdr. Abigail Chek Named NAVFAC Washington 2027 Military Engineer of the Year

When the Resident Officer in Charge of Construction Annapolis needed to deliver a $7.5 million flood protection project to save the U.S. Naval Academy waterfront, the task fell to Lt. Cmdr. Abigail Chek. Managing 63 military and civilian professionals across two locations, Chek’s team installed 1,200 feet of bulkhead to stop persistent flooding and eliminate sinkholes threatening the academy’s columbarium.

That engineering achievement helped earn Chek the title of Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Washington 2027 Military Engineer of the Year. Selected from a competitive field of nominees, Chek now advances to the NAVFAC-wide competition.

Capt. Daniel Schmitt, NAVFAC Washington commanding officer, cited her relentless operational drive, engineering mastery, and unwavering commitment to mission readiness.

In fiscal 2026 alone, Chek’s office executed more than 300 contracting actions valued at $155 million. That workload included awarding a $28 million utility bridge and a $9.6 million utility tunnel repair on the exact same day, alongside championing a $63 million project at MacDonough Hall, the academy’s primary fitness facility.

This facility ensures our future Navy and Marine Corps officers report to the fleet physically resilient, combat-ready, and prepared to lead, Chek said of the MacDonough Hall overhaul.

Before taking charge in Annapolis, Chek served as executive officer of Underwater Construction Team ONE, a Seabee diving unit.

Lt. Cmdr. Abigail Chek Named NAVFAC Washington 2027 Military Engineer of the Year

Reflecting on her leadership philosophy, Chek noted, Leadership during times of change is not about having all the answers in front of you. Instead, it is about standing behind your people to support, steady, and advocate on their behalf.

That leadership approach has translated down the chain of command, with members of her team earning Supervisor of the Year and Project Manager of the Year honors.

Learn your team and take care of your sphere of influence, she said. Listen to your Seabees, Chiefs, and civilian staff on the deck plates, advocate on their behalf, and build trust daily.