Two staff members at the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory were recognized for excellence in their fields at an awards event during the spring 2025 Technology Transfer Working Group, or TTWG, meeting in Washington, D.C., on May 29.
TTWG is composed of representatives from the DOE national laboratories, single-purpose research facilities, production facilities, and DOE and National Nuclear Security Administration headquarters and field elements. Members work together to implement technology transfer policy, exchange information about best practices, and develop and inform the public and potential partners about opportunities and procedures for technology transfer.
Susan Ochs, engagement programs manager, won the Innovative Lab Technology Transfer category for her development of a commercialization coaching program. The Catalyst Coaching Program (formerly Safari) has led to nine non-disclosure agreements, three license agreements, and built a network of 24 engaged entrepreneurs now connected to ORNL technologies. There is interest in other DOE laboratories in replicating this program, because of its demonstrated impact for translating scientific innovation into societal and economic impact.
Susan was also recognized with the Office of Technology Commercialization’s Director’s Choice Award.
“Commercialization is one of the most important ways we turn federal research into real-world impact,” said Anthony Pugliese, chief commercialization officer and director of the Office of Technology Commercialization. “It’s how we strengthen our economy, support American industry, and ensure the Department’s work delivers for the American people. This kind of early-stage support—helping researchers build the skills, confidence, and connections to engage with the market—is essential to that mission. This award recognizes Susan’s leadership in making that happen through creativity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to public service.”
Dan Vacar, patent agent, was recognized with the IP Management award for his outstanding contributions to intellectual property strategy, particularly in advancing ORNL’s Quantum Science Technologies portfolio. Dan works across a range of divisions and directorates to bridges complex interdisciplinary innovations into strong, commercially valuable patents.
UT-Battelle manages ORNL for the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States. The Office of Science is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, please visit energy.gov/science.
