Honors & Awards

Rock Mechanics Award

• Issued by the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration - Sept 2023

The Rock Mechanics Award recognizes distinguished contributions to the advancement of the field of rock mechanics. Awarded to Dr. Pierce “for his international leadership in development of rock mass material models and specialized tools to solve important underground mining problems including rock mass failure, fragmentation, gravity flow and tunnel support”.

Manuel Rocha Medal

• Issued by International Society for Rock Mechanics · Jan 2013

• Associated with The University of Queensland

Since 1982 a bronze medal and a cash prize have been awarded annually by the International Society of Rock Mechanics (ISRM) for an outstanding doctoral thesis in rock mechanics or rock engineering, to honour the memory of Past President Manuel Rocha while stimulating young researchers.

President's Award

• Issued by Itasca International Inc. · Jan 2011

• Associated with Itasca Consulting Group, Inc.

Awarded on a yearly basis at the discretion of the President of III based on the encouragement and development of cooperative work amongst III offices. Value $10,000.

Undergraduate Thesis Award

• Issued by Tunnelling Association of Canada · Oct 1995

• Associated with Queen's University

O'Connor Associates Scholarship in Geological Engineering

• Sep 1995

• Associated with Queen's University

Awarded based on a strong academic record, a keen interest in environmental issues, and participation in student activities.

Medal in Geological Engineering

• Jan 1995

• Associated with Queen's UniversityAssociated with Queen's University

For highest academic achievement in geological engineering based on 3rd and 4th year courses.

The R. Samuel McLaughlin Fellowship

• Jan 1995

• Associated with Queen's University

Awarded to first class master's and doctoral students in all fields who are residents of Ontario. Value: $10,000

The Gartner Lee Scholarship in Geological Engineering

• Sep 1993

• Associated with Queen's University

Awarded to the student who in the judgement of the Head of the Department, in consultation with appropriate instructors, meets satisfactory academic standards, and combines qualities of character, leadership and reliability.

The Manley B. Baker Scholarships in Geology

• Sep 1993

• Associated with Queen's University

Awarded for standing in first and second year geology courses.

A.J. McNab Scholarship

• Sep 1992

• Associated with Queen's University

Awarded for standing in APSC 151 The Earth's Physical Environment, no failed courses.