BISMARCK, North Dakota - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today announced that Shane Langerud, an explosive specialist with the agency, has been selected as the 2020 Transportation Security Specialist for Explosives (TSSE) of the Year. This award recognizes the top technical expert on improvised explosive devices and other threats to transportation security.
TSSE Langerud has been with TSA since 2018. Nominated by his co-workers, he was described as overwhelmingly dedicated to the agency’s mission as well as performing his duties in an exceptional manner to the benefit of the traveling public. He is the sole recipient of this national award in 2020.
“Because explosives are known to be the greatest threat to transportation security, the role of TSSE is critical in our daily operations. TSSE Langerud has developed realistic explosive training programs to help TSA employees and our security partners prepare for emerging threats,” said TSA Federal Security Director for North Dakota David Durgan. “His innovative approach to security is second to none and we are proud to have him on our team.”
As the only certified indirect trainer in North Dakota for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Bombing Prevention, Langerud has initiated a campaign among the state’s law enforcement agencies to raise awareness of the threats posed by Improvised Explosive Devices. He has also developed an interactive, computer-based explosives training curriculum used by more than 200 TSA officers across eight airports in North Dakota.
TSSE Langerud earned his Doctor of Management degree from Colorado Technical University where his studies were focused on organizational development and change. He is currently completing his Master of Education degree from the University of North Dakota focusing on instructional design and technology.
Prior to his current position at TSA, Shane served for 21 years in the U.S. Marine Corps where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and numerous other decorations for combat-related accomplishments.
The TSA honorary awards recognize the agency’s highest performers and teams of 2020. Due to COVID-19, the awards were announced virtually today by TSA Administrator David Pekoske from agency headquarters in Springfield, Virginia.