The Board of Directors of the International Society of Explosives Engineers (ISEE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Buck Hawkins as new Executive Director. Buck started the position on March 17, becoming the fourth Executive Director of the organization. As we move into our next chapter, we thank Steve Shivak for his dedication to the society while he ushered in new operational systems, including the new ISEE website and educational programs.
We would also like to thank John Capers who has been serving as our Interim Executive Director since November 2024. John is a longtime ISEE member, Past ISEE President, and former Technical Director at Austin Powder Company. Please join us in thanking John for his dedication, commitment, leadership, guidance and support during this transition period.
Buck began his explosives career as a combat engineer with the Ohio Army National Guard. He served as a demolition instructor teaching nonelectric systems for breaching applications. After receiving a bachelor’s in communications from Morehead State University, he enrolled at Missouri S&T and completed a bachelor’s in mining engineering and master’s in explosives engineering.
During this time Buck deployed to Iraq and Qatar and finished a Graduate Certificate in Homeland Security and Defense from Missouri State University.
Following his last deployment, he served as Director of Education and Training at the ISEE and worked with blasters programs and chapter outreach.
In 2015, Buck completed the US Army Sergeant's Major Academy and began working for Sauls Seismic as Chief Operating Officer. He specialized in operational efficiency, best practices training, data management development, and team building.
Buck is extremely excited to be back with the ISEE and is looking forward to working with the board and staff to grow the organization by developing new training programs, improving operations and enhancing the ISEE's engagement with members.
Kristen Kolden thanks the Executive Director Search Committee and the Executive Committee’s support throughout the search and interview process. Kristen noted that we are incredibly lucky to have Buck “back on board” with the ISEE and are looking forward to his leadership in making the ISEE an even greater value to our membership base as well as our growth and outreach to new members and educational programs for the explosives industry.
ISEE is committed to continuing its mission of enhancing the safety, science, skill and benefits of explosives engineering, worldwide.
Please join us in welcoming back Buck Hawkins to the ISEE.
