Message from the Dean

The College of Engineering has long believed that investments in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are investments in Oregon’s long-term economic and social health. The value of focusing our efforts in this direction was immediately apparent to visitors to the Engineering Expo on May 16.

It was hard not to be impressed — and perhaps even a little overwhelmed — at the enthusiasm, creativity, and talent embodied by this year’s cohort of engineering students as they displayed their capstone projects. It’s amazing what can happen when students are given the time, resources, encouragement, and free rein to do their best work.

As Nancy Golden, Oregon’s new chief education officer, points out in this issue of Industry Connect, industry partnerships are key to making higher education relevant and timely. This year, more than 50 senior capstone projects were made possible by corporate sponsorships — wise investments by companies that recognize a win-win when they see it.

Ken Wightman, chairman emeritus of David Evans and Associates, Inc., graciously fulfilled the role of Grand Marshall for this year’s expo. We took a few minutes to pick his brain about the experience, and asked him to share his viewpoint about the benefits of this yearly event.

I hope you enjoy this issue of Industry Connect. Maybe it will spark some ideas about how your organization can join us in giving our students their best chance to succeed while benefiting your own strategic plans.

As always, we’d love to hear from you!

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