Title: Physical Scientist

Company: National Institute of Standards and Technology

Location: Mt. Airy, MA

Since 1996, physical scientist, C. Dawn Cross, has performed calibrations of industrial thermometers at NIST. In this work, she has calibrated an extremely large variety of thermometers, including platinum resistance thermometers, thermistors, thermocouples, and a large variety of liquid-in-glass thermometers. She is both a member and officer of ASTM committee E20 on Temperature, and a member of ASTM D2 on Petroleum, affording her an excellent perspective on the needs of industrial users. Ms. Cross has authored papers on the uncertainties of thermistor and liquid-in-glass thermometers.

The biggest challenge that Ms. Cross had to face was coming into the position with only eight hours of training and essentially having to self teach herself hard and fast. The woman she was replacing was ill and had only been able to complete eight hours of training with her before leaving the position the rest she had to learn on her own. To her good fortune a few of the thermometer companies taught her how they were manufactured etc. but for the most part the burden was on her. Ms. Cross chose this career because upon graduation from high school she went to work as a secretary and then was encouraged to take a test by her mother for the government where she scored a 98, she got additional training in math and as a result was hired immediately in an administrative office.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a non-regulatory federal agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce. NIST’s mission is to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve our quality of life. Ms. Cross’ greatest accomplishment is getting the world to get away from using mercury glass thermometers with alternative thermometers. Her ability to educate individuals on the danger of mercury thermometers, what their alternatives are, as well as where and how to  properly and safely dispose of the mercury filled ones. Ms. Cross wants most to be remembered as an energetic and enthusiastic person who loved science and for her love to educate and work with kids.