After more than two decades of service to the Charles E. Via, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, research scientist Jeffrey Parks is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of technical excellence, mentorship and leadership.

Since joining the group as a postdoctoral researcher in late 2005, Parks helped build and sustain one of the department’s most impactful analytical resources: the ICP-MS metals analysis laboratory. He and his colleagues worked year to year to maintain continuous support for the lab, which is a remarkable accomplishment spanning more than 20 years without interruption.

Parks played a central role in some of the department’s most consequential work. He led all of the ICP-MS metals analysis during the Flint water crisis, including analysis of samples from Flint resident LeeAnne Walters. In the years that followed, he continued tracking water quality recovery efforts with EPA funding, providing rigorous data that informed public health and regulatory responses. His steady, precise analytical work helped communities understand contamination levels and recovery progress during a national crisis.

Beyond individual projects, he developed the ICP-MS laboratory into a highly efficient cost center that processed approximately 30,000 samples per year. The lab supported Virginia Tech research, the Well Owner’s Program, Technical Assistance Program (TAP) projects, and clients across the country. The lab became known for delivering high-quality metals analysis at very low cost, expanding access to reliable testing for researchers and communities alike.

Marc Edwards has worked with Parks for many years and describes him as an outstanding mentor and role model for both graduate and undergraduate students. “He consistently stepped in to support other projects as needs arose, and his contributions to TAP projects have been described as flawless and invaluable,” said Edwards.

Reflecting on more than 20 years of sustained impact, Parks has provided steady commitment, professionalism and positive spirit that has benefited students, research partners and the broader Virginia Tech community.