June 2026: Statler Circuit Department Digest and News

Mechanical, Materials and Aerospace Engineering

Jason Gross, professor and chair of the Department of Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering, has been selected to serve the aerospace engineering community as the new Vice-Chair of the Aerospace Department Chairs Association — a professional organization comprising the heads and chairs of aerospace engineering departments across the U.S. and select international programs.

Pick 5: Connect Across Units - Industrial and Management Systems Engineering

As part of our ongoing effort to strengthen engagement relationships across our college and create a more collaborative, friendly environment, we are excited to introduce a new initiative called “Pick 5: Connect Across Units”! This initiative is designed to spotlight different academic units to learn more about each other’s work, explore potential collaborations, and build stronger connections. Learn with us about this academic unit!  

1. What’s an example of behind-the-scenes work that makes a big impact? 
   Our online programs, especially the Occupational Safety and Health Ph.D. program. Fun fact: we like to call this program “OSH-Doc;” it’s more fun to say it that way!
2. What is one thing faculty and staff appreciate about working in this academic unit?       
   Our alumni are so involved and provide so much support to our students! It makes for a well-rounded and exciting atmosphere, providing students with a real-world understanding of industrial engineering.
3. Coffee, tea, or snacks: what fuels the team during busy times?
   Coffee and diet coke. Because productivity runs on caffeine and bubbles.
4. If our unit were a board game, what would it be? 
   “The Game of Life!” With industrial engineering, there are so many options to choose from and we’re always looking at the return on investment, whether that’s planning for our retirement payout or supporting significant corporate-level financial decisions.

5. What’s your favorite season on campus – and why?
   (This one was easy!) Fall – all of the beautiful colors, the Fall Fest festivities, and the fresh levels of student energy!

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