Message from the Dean

As 21st century science delves into the most fundamental building blocks of life, researchers are continually making new discoveries that reinforce the idea of an interconnected planet, and the benefits of cooperation at all levels. Collaboration, interdisciplinary research, team-oriented organizational structures, and tight connections among higher education and industry are just a few of the natural outgrowths of this most basic understanding.

In this issue of Industry Connect, you'll see how the barrier that used to separate art and engineering is becoming more permeable. You'll meet a music professor who is working closely with the School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science to study how our bodies and brains react to music.

You'll also have a chance to hear from Eric Meslow, president and chief executive officer of Timbercon, member of the executive committee of the Tech America Oregon Council, and chair of the Engineering and Technology Industry Council of the Oregon University System. Meslow shares his thoughts about how industry and education can work even more tightly together to ensure a strong engineering workforce in the future.

To round out the issue, we're proud to introduce you to Kristina Milaj, a native Albanian student who was recently honored by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Kristina embodies the concept of an interconnected world and the value of pairing high-achieving students with industry to serve everyone's good.

Scott A. Ashford, Ph.D.
Kearney Professor and Dean
College of Engineering
Oregon State University