Message from the Dean

We strive to educate a unique class of engineers who possess a strong technical foundation coupled with well-developed leadership skills and a broad worldview.

The Oregon State Engineer is a high achiever whose innovation and leadership helps to solve seemingly intractable problems, strengthen individuals and communities, and contribute to a better world.

To produce these profession-ready graduates, we understand the value of working closely with industry to help us stay current with the challenges organizations face in an ever-shifting marketplace. In this issue of Industry Connect, we talked to Keith Brown, IBM’s director for strategic university and industry alliances, and Laura McKinney, OUS assistant vice chancellor for industry partnerships and Oregon Engineering and Technology Industry Council’s executive director, about the value of producing “T-shaped” professionals and how Oregon’s educational institutions can serve this goal.

Under the leadership of Scott Paja, the College of Engineering is becoming more intentional about producing T-shaped professionals by launching an Engineering Leadership Academy that will give students opportunities to enhance the nontechnical skills that are critical to their success as engineers. You can learn about this effort in our Relevant Education column.

Also, in the School of Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, we are working to close this industry-university gap by reimagining traditional student internships. Involving faculty more directly in internship relationships will enable them to gain awareness of the most current trends, technologies, and research challenges, and subsequently bring that new understanding back to the classroom. Take a few minutes to read about Chinweike Eseonu’s research and how it is informing this effort.

Let us know how we’re doing — we’re always eager to hear from you!

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