An OU assistant professor traveled to the White House to receive an award from President Barack Obama last week.

Cerato was one of 100 scientists and engineers to win the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. The award is the highest honor for those in the early stages of their career, according to a White House press release.

“These extraordinarily gifted young scientists and engineers represent the best in our country,” Obama stated in a press release. “With their talent, creativity and dedication, I am confident that they will lead their fields in new breakthroughs and discoveries and help us use science and technology to lift up our nation and our world.”

The award consisted of a signed letter, a certificate and a White House tour, Cerato said. She also got to shake Obama’s hand.

“He seemed so much taller and thinner in person than he does on television,” said Amy Cerato, assistant professor of civil engineering. “It was so surreal to see this man speaking six feet in front of you that you have seen on television. It was almost humbling to be that close to the leader of the free world.”

Cerato won the award for her work on expansive soil, which shrinks or swells with climate change, she said. This type of soil covers 25 percent of America, but most people do not know much about it.

“This is the most costly natural hazard in the U.S.,” Cerato said. “It’s not on people’s radars because it doesn’t happen suddenly, but it’s a big draw on the tax base.”

Cerato’s research focuses on designing tests to predict how much soil will change and how to build a better infrastructure.

“You can never beat Mother Nature, but you can learn to work with her,“ she said.

When Cerato moved to Oklahoma five years ago, everyone told her to be careful about such soils when choosing a house, she said. She began doing research on her own and became more interested in studying the soil.

Since winning the award, Cerato said she has received a lot of publicity, but does not mind it.

“It’s exciting to bring the message of civil engineering to the public,” Cerato said. “I have students saying, ‘Hey, you’re a good role model — you’re a woman, you’re successful and you have a family.’

“Civil engineers are just as important as doctors or lawyers. I want to change the perception of being nerdy.”

Engineering students and faculty agreed Cerato’s honor and publicity could be good for the engineering field.

Engineers contribute to society in beneficial ways and deserve a pat on the back every once in a while, mechanical engineering sophomore Steve Silva said.

“Amy Cerato is highly regarded by her students and faculty peers,” stated Thomas L. Landers, dean of the OU College of Engineering, in a press release. “National recognition was sure to follow suit. We are very proud of her accomplishments and grateful for the recognition she brings to our engineering college.”

Besides research on expansive soil, Cerato said she serves on a bicycle commission for Norman to make the city more bike-friendly. She also works with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to make roads smoother and safer for cars, buses and bicycles.