Governor Wolf Awards Governor’s Award for Excellence to DEP Employee Dedicated to Clean Air

Harrisburg, PA - Governor Tom Wolf has awarded the Governor's Award of Excellence to the Department of Environmental Protection Air Quality Engineer Vince Pascucci for his work to fight climate change and protect and improve air quality throughout Pennsylvania.

"This award is very well-deserved, and Vince's efforts to ensure clean air for all Pennsylvanians will show benefits for years to come," said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell. "Vince has exemplified the mantra of 'government that works' by taking the initiative to do what needed to be done for the people of Pennsylvania."

Pascucci was nominated for this award for his work on the Reasonably Available Control Technology II (RACT II) regulation for reducing air pollution from coal-fired power plants in line with federal requirements. In order to provide the needed details for the new emissions limits, Vince taught himself a new programming language and compiled weeks' worth of data analysis. This work has resulted in lower proposed emissions limits and decreased chances of ground level ozone pollution that can harm people's health.

The annual Governor's Awards for Excellence recognize exemplary commonwealth employees or groups of employees for initiative, leadership, innovation, and increased efficiency. This prestigious award program encourages excellence, provides inspiring role models for emulation, and rewards remarkable accomplishments.

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