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Spring 2008
Tennessee Engineer Spring 2008
College of Engineering
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Recommended Citation College of Engineering, "Tennessee Engineer Spring 2008" (2008). Tennessee Engineer Newsletter. https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk-tennengineer/9
This Newsletter is brought to you for free and open access by the Engineering -- Other Materials (Newsletters, Reports, Etc.) at TRACE: Tennessee Research and Creative Exchange. It has been accepted for inclusion in Tennessee Engineer Newsletter by an authorized administrator of TRACE: Tennessee Research and Creative Exchange. For more information, please contact [email protected]. ENGIG NEER Vol. X• Issue II • Spring 2008 ÊÊ iÜÃiÌÌiÀÊvÀÊÕÊ>`ÊÀi`ÃÊvÊÌ iÊ1ÛiÀÃÌÞÊvÊ/iiÃÃii½ÃÊ i}iÊvÊ }iiÀ} Dean Kuo to Leave COE - Dr. Wayne Davis Named Interim Dean
Dr. Wayne T. Davis has been named as the interim dean of the College of Engineering (COE) after the resignation of Dr. Way Kuo. From the Dean’s Desk Davis, currently COE associate dean for research and technology, will become the Dear College of Engineer- • COE graduate enrollment reached a interim dean effective May 10. ing Alumni, Supporters, record high (Ph.D. enrollment “Wayne has served our campus and the col- Faculty, Staff, Students and doubled); undergraduate enrollment is lege for more than 30 years, and his knowl- Friends: the highest it has been in the past 14 edge and leadership will be the right fit for As we begin 2008, I years; the college as we move to find the next dean,” would like to thank • we now have the largest amount of said UT Knoxville Provost Robert Holub. our faculty and staff capital money for new buildings in Davis received his bachelor’s degree in physics for their hard work the history of the college; from Pfeiffer Col- and dedication dur- • COE research expenditures have lege (now Pfeiffer ing this past year. doubled and NSF awards have University) in Once again, many quadrupled; Misenheimer, N.C.; exciting things have happened, including: a master’s in phys- the groundbreaking ceremony for the Min • we have been able to make significant ics from Clemson Kao Electrical Engineering and Computer salary rewards and adjustments to University and a Science (EECS) Building; the establishment performing faculty and staff members. master’s in environ- of the merged EECS department, along As we have implemented accountability and mental engineering with the appointment of its new head, performance-based recognition in the college, and Ph.D. in civil Dr. Kevin Tomsovic; hosting the National I have enjoyed a great deal of support from engineering from Science Foundation (NSF) Conference, at- the current COE and departmental leader- UT Knoxville. tended by 1,100 participants; visits by many ship. I am also appreciative of the strong world renowned academic leaders; and nu- leadership and ongoing support from former Davis joined the merous accomplishments which have been Department of Civ- Wayne Davis, Associate Dean Chancellor Crabtree, Provost Holub, the highly complimented by our constituents COE Board of Advisors, the campus commu- il & Environmental across the country. Engineering as an instructor of environ- nity and ORNL administrators, researchers mental engineering in 1974 and became an By now, you may have heard that I am and staff. assistant professor in 1975. He was named an departing the University of Tennessee for During the balance of my term here, I will associate professor in 1979, and became a full the City University of Hong Kong in May. make certain that the college continues effi- professor in the department in 1984. Davis As its next president, I am honored by City cient operations, and I will maintain our high also served as assistant dean of the Graduate University’s trust in my ability to advance goals and standards while implementing our School from 1985 to 1998 and as the school’s their mission and academic programs. I academic agenda, without any compromise associate dean from 1988 until 1991. He was have been here at UT for almost five years, on quality and accountability. the university’s 2003 Macebearer. and during that time I have been privileged to lead the College of Engineering, with I trust that the college will continue to excel Davis’ research areas are air quality manage- contributions from many others, to make under the future leadership. I have enjoyed ment and pollution control. He is a Qualified great strides in academics and outreach. my years here in the UT College of Engineer- Environmental Professional and is a member For example: ing, and I offer my best wishes for continued of numerous professional and academic and success to both the university and the college. honorary societies, including the Air and • The COE has now climbed to the Waste Management Association, the Ameri- highest rankings ever in both the can Society of Civil Engineers and the Ameri- undergraduate and graduate Thank you for your ongoing interest and can Society of Engineering Educators. programs, and it is now one of the support of our college. most improved engineering Best regards, The search for a permanent COE dean is now programs in the country; underway, with a search committee chaired by UT Knoxville Vice Chancellor for Research • the quality of our undergraduates and Engagement Brad Fenwick and Dr. is now the best in the college’s Bamin Khomami, professor and head of the history; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular • the graduation and retention rates Way Kuo Engineering. have reached the highest on record; Dean of Engineering and Story by Kim Cowart University Distinguished Professor
COLLEGE news A Message from Interim COE Hosts 2008 NSF CMMI Conference in Knoxville Chancellor Jan Simek
Dear College of Engineering Alumni, Donors and Friends: By now, many of you have heard about the changes in leadership for both the University of Tennessee- Knoxville campus and the College of Engineering. I would like to take this op- portunity to provide you with more information about these transitions. Interim Chancellor I was asked to take on the Jan Simek Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen opens the Welcome Ceremony for the 2008 NSF CMMI Conference. responsibilities of interim Seated at the head table (left to right) are Dr. Lee Riedenger, professor of physics and the conference co- chancellor for the UT-Knoxville campus after chair; City of Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam; UT-Knoxville Provost Bob Holub; COE Dean Way Kuo; Michael the resignation of Dr. Loren Crabtree in January M. Reischman, Deputy Assistant Director for Engineering, NSF; and UT System President John Petersen. 2008. As many of you know, I had served as Dr. Crabtree’s chief of staff since 2005, and prior to The University of Tennessee College of Engi- Total attendance for this premier conference that held positions as Interim Dean of the College neering welcomed the world to Knoxville as was 1,100 participants, including over 200 of Architecture and Design, Head of the Anthro- the host of the National Science Foundation’s students. To encourage student participation pology Department, and Interim Director of the (NSF) Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing In- in the conference, student travel grant awards School of Art. I have a strong commitment to novation Engineering Research and Innovation were given on a competitive basis to almost 250 continuing the university’s progress in all of our Conference 2008, at the Knoxville Convention student applicants. Funding for these travel mission areas, including academics and research. Center (KCC) January 7-10, 2008. grants was provided by the COE, Missouri The UT-Knoxville administration has an outstand- University of Science and Technology (formerly ing group of capable administrators in place to the University of Missouri-Rolla) and Arizona assist us in our work. Contents State University. On Feb. 27, 2008, the search committee for the College News...... 2 Conference activities included more than 500 chancellor’s position, chaired by Dr. Harry (Hap) poster presentations, in addition to workshops McSween, a Distinguished Professor of Science Faculty News...... 3 and plenary and breakout sessions on funding and the former dean of the College of Arts and Research Notes...... 4 prospects, proposal writing and research needs, Sciences, selected the firm of Parker Executive Search to assist us in finding a new chancellor. Student Focus...... 6 opportunities and best practices. NSF program directors conducted many of the sessions. The Based on the committee’s consultations with the Alumni Profile...... 8 conference also provided an excellent oppor- search firm, we expect to have primary candidates Development Notes...... 9 tunity for participants to network with other selected and on campus early in the next academic year. Alumni News...... 10 researchers and develop collaborative efforts Also in this edition of Tennessee Engineer, Dean Honors & Awards...... 11 An opening reception was one of the highlights Way Kuo is providing information about his Calendar and Contact Info...... 12 of the first day’s activities. Conference partici- resignation from the College of Engineering to pants mingled with UT and COE administra- assume the presidency of the City University of tors, faculty and staff in the KCC’s Cumber- Hong Kong. land Concourse while enjoying delicious hors d’oeuvres and live jazz from UT music depart- I would like to express my sincere regret that Dr. Kuo will be leaving our university. He has been Newsletter Production ment faculty members Rusty Holloway, Mark Boling and Keith Brown. a wonderful leader for the college, increasing Published by research revenue, reorganizing the college’s admin- The Opening Plenary Session took place Tues- Office of Communications istrative functions and updating our engineering College of Engineering day morning, January 8, and featured addresses curriculum. However, accomplished academic The University of Tennessee by Dean Way Kuo, Provost Robert Holub, UT leaders are in demand. I would like to congratu- 207 Perkins Hall President John Petersen, NSF Deputy Assistant late Dr. Kuo on his exciting new opportunity, and Knoxville, TN 37996-2012 Director for Engineering Dr. Michael M. Reis- I know you will join me in wishing him the best when he leaves on May 9, 2008 to assume his new Editor and Graphic Design chman and Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen position. Kim Cowart In his remarks, Bredesen said that the United Contributing Writers States needs to restore the importance of scien- We have assembled an outstanding search com- mittee under the guidance of Dr. Brad Fenwick, Scott Jones tific endeavor in research and technology to the Vice-Chancellor for Research, and Dr. Bamin Amanda Womac nation’s priorities. Khomami, Armour T. Granger and Alvin and Contributing Photographers City of Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam and Knox Sally Beaman Distinguished Professor and Head Nick Myers, UT Creative Services County Mayor Mike Ragsdale also made a joint of the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Amanda Womac, Engineering Communications presentation of a proclamation declaring Janu- Engineering. We are also currently in the process Michael Patrick, The Knoxville News-Sentinel ary 8 “National Science Foundation Day” in the of engaging a search firm to assist us with the Publication Authorization Number: E01-1301-012-015-08/DOP: 4/30/08 city and county. process of building a candidate pool. It is our goal
Continued on page 7 Continued on page 5
TENNESSEE engineer • Spring 2008 FACULTY news Faculty Updates Faculty Focus Dr. Michael Langston Dr. Way Kuo, dean of engineering and a University Dr. Michael A. Langston, Distinguished Professor, was professor in the Department elected as a Foreign Member of Electrical Engineering of the Chinese Academy and Computer Science, has of Engineering (CAE) on a always checked the box next new members list that was to mathematics when given a announced December 29, career choice. 2007. A membership in the CAE is the highest academic “I tell my students, ‘If you title in engineering science concentrate on learning math Dr. Way Kuo and technology in China. and learning it well, it will Established in 1994, the Chinese Academy is the open doors to many other most prestigious and authoritative advisory institu- fields,’” said Langston, whose tion in the nation’s engineering and science field. love for math has opened
many doors for him over the Dr. Kevin Tomsovic has been last four decades. Mathemat- named head of the University ics has most recently helped of Tennessee’s Department him build collaborations with of Electrical Engineering and Mike Langston (center) discusses computational and statistical issues for molecular biologists in using a Computer Science (EECS). number of powerful algorith- biological data integration with two of his PhD students, Jeremy Jay (right) and Charles Phillips (left). mic tools to solve cutting-edge Tomsovic, who earned both problems in genetics and his M.S. and Ph.D. in electri- genomics. and reducing the problem to its compute core. cal engineering from the Langston’s team solves this core with their most Computation has forever changed scientists’ University of Washington, efficient methods implemented on the fastest recently replaced interim head ability to analyze and understand genes and computational resources and are thus able to Dr. Luther Wilhelm. Dr. Kevin Tomsovic proteins that control a myriad of cell functions deliver relatively small and highly distilled solu- at the heart of biological systems. Nevertheless, tions, such as sets of genes and proteins, back Prior to coming to UT, where he will also serve as basic questions such as “What are the driving to the biological scientist, who is then able to the CTI Chair in the EECS department, Tomsovic was a professor at Washington State University. From biological networks,” “How do we find them” complete the study and verify novel results with 2004-2006, he served as the program director for the and “How do we alter them in order to improve more traditional “wet lab” techniques. human health” have long seemed out of reach. Division of Electrical and Communication Systems Limited biological information and a paucity “Such verification remains expensive and time for the National Science Foundation. of analytical tools have made it difficult even to consuming,” said Langston. “By its nature it make educated guesses. But that bleak landscape is highly infeasible without the computational Dr. Mingjun Zhang has recently joined the Universi- is rapidly changing. By coupling new sources component we provide, because otherwise ty of Tennessee’s Department of high-throughput biological data with novel there are overwhelmingly too many candidate of Mechanical, Aerospace, and combinatorial algorithms and high performance solutions to consider.” Biomedical Engineering. Prior computer architectures, teams of scientists such Langston has devised novel tools to solve ap- to coming to UT, Dr. Zhang as those working with Langston can now solve plied graph theoretical problems for over 25 worked in the Life Sciences and Chemical Analysis Divi- problems that were until only recently consid- years, and it is not surprising that he is one ered unassailable. sion at Agilent Technologies of the most visible people leading efforts to in California. “Advances in our ability to generate, interpret integrate new discrete mathematical techniques Zhang was the first recipient and decompose biological data have dramati- with high performance computational ap- proaches to solve complex biological problems. of the Early Career Award cally improved our ability to understand highly (Government/Industry) by the complex biological systems,” said Langston. Because Langston’s work is in much demand Dr. Mingjun Zhang around the globe, he has research contracts IEEE Robotics and Automa- “With a single experiment, we can now produce tion Society in 2003 and is currently the associate a snapshot of how every gene in an organism in several countries and travels as much as 200,000 miles each year to work with other editor for the IEEE Transactions on Automation responds to stimulus. Combine that snapshot Science and Engineering. with our algorithms and access to supercomput- scientists in order to delve deeper into human ing platforms, such those furnished to my team and other genomes. by the Department of Energy at Oak Ridge “Student recruiting is also a major goal of my UT Associate Vice President for the University of National Laboratory, and we can routinely travels,” said Langston, who considers himself Tennessee Space Institute Dr. Don Daniel will retire solve in real time problems that were previously an international ambassador for the university. in May of 2008. considered hopelessly intractable. This can help Before joining UTSI, Daniel biologists who formerly devoted much of their A typical example of his collaborative efforts is centered in Göteborg, Sweden, where Langston served as a research engineer careers to working on one or a few genes now to with Boeing and worked for decipher immense numbers of gene and protein works as co-principal investigator on one of two contracts from the European Union. 30 years with the Depart- interactions at the network level.” ment of the Air Force. He Langston views his role as a computational “Scandinavia has a rich history of producing has also served as chairman scientist as something of a middleman in the excellent twin data, specifically on monozygotic of NATO’s research and technology board. tool chain. Biological scientists produce data or so-called ‘identical’ twins,” said Langston. in huge supply and Langston’s team employs “The question we want to answer is why is Daniel joined UTSI in 2006 it that two individuals, born with the same abstraction via graph and statistical theoretical after being selected in a Dr. Don Daniel tools to eliminate noise and irrelevant data, DNA and raised in the same environment, are national search to lead the thereby focusing on key network interactions organization. Continued on page 5
TENNESSEE engineer • Spring 2008 RESEARCH notes Dr. Brian Edwards Pioneers Dr. Wes Hines Demonstrates Polymers Research Value of Reliability Engineering “Almost everything has polymers in it,” said Dr. Brian Edwards of the Univer- Dr. Wesley Hines does important work. He saves money and, quite possibly, lives. sity of Tennessee’s Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Hines is in the business of prognosis, or predicting the “remaining useful life” or (CBE). “The carpet, the walls, the desk you’re writing on, they all contain “time to failure” for complex machine systems, such as oil rigs and nuclear power polymers.” plants.
In addition to its current utilitarian popularity, Edwards sees much more in the “Every time one of these engineering marvels shuts downy ou’re losing money, and future of polymers. Advanced polymers could improve solar cells, semiconduct- lots of it,” said Hines. ing materials and fuel cells, just to name a few. Along with his fellow researchers, Hines has developed a series of algorithms that give engineers and device operators crucial information on how to proceed in “In order to get there, however,we have to understand polymers,” added uncertain situations. For example, his recent work with BHI, a large multinational Edwards. corporation, helped that company to greatly improve its strategy for drilling oil wells. This quest to understand the fundamental nature of polymers is one task cur- Thirty percent of the time, said Hines, BHI engineers encounter a problem rently occupying Edwards’s mind. In addition to the traditional scientific tools (usually a very expensive one) before they hit their target depth. He estimates that of theory and experiment, Edwards uses supercomputers to help model and every time something breaks on an oil drill, the company is losing approximately simulate the structures of new polymers, greatly reducing the time (and money) $500,000 in loss of drilling time alone. involved in materials research. Ultimately, he seeks to expedite an understand- “Companies who have to deal with ing of polymers so that they can be manufactured more efficiently and their these problems want methods to potential can be fully realized. monitor equipment and detect anomalies,” said Hines. But there is more to Edwards than just polymers. He is also currently engaged in a project with the Air Force Office of Research to design novel lubricants for The drill bits on these massive extreme environments, such as the severe cold of the arctic, where traditional diggers contain memory chips that lubricants tend to freeze up. These high-tech substances have a variety of ap- collect data on the progress of the dig plications, such as in aircraft and service vehicles in the arctic. and the status of the equipment. “However, previously they could For this project, Edwards has teamed with Dr. David Keffer, an associate never efficiently utilize the data,” professor in the CBE department, and Dr. Jamie Adcock, a professor in the Hines added. “Now, with these algo- Department of Chemistry. Again, rithms, they have the capability.” Dr. Wes Hines (right) and his student Jamie computers play an important role BHI will soon be using Hines’ Garvey (left) collaborate on a project. in expediting the research. The algorithms at all of its maintenance team uses molecular dynamics sights. These same algorithms, said Hines, could theoretically be used in long-flight simulations on supercomputers to space vehicles, civilian aircraft, nuclear power plants, and countless other areas. estimate the properties of various lubricants. “Think of your car,” said Hines. “If you know you’ve got bad brakes, you probably shouldn’t go 80 miles per hour. However, you might get away with 40 miles per hour, at least for a time. It’s the same with airplanes, power plants, and all the rest. “Adcock synthesizes the com- You need to know what you can get away with in order to plan your strategy and pounds and experiments are con- save money, and in the case of airplanes and long-flight space vehicles, possibly ducted to measure the properties lives.” that were simulated–simulations Dr. Brian Edwards (right) discusses research Hines recently collaborated with the National Energy Policy Research Institute results with students Rhea Sammons (center) of different lubricant molecular (NEPRI) to help power plants prolong the lives of their aging components. The and Jun Mo Kim (left) in his lab. architectures can be examined through [computer] simulation majority of these plants are over 40 years old, said Hines, adding that their opera- alone, allowing for a very large number of potential lubricant compounds to tors would like to get at least 20 more years out of them. be virtually tested, rather than synthesizing these compounds and then testing “You need to know the life left of the equipment,” he said, alluding to his research. them, which is a very time-consuming and expensive process,” Edwards said. Hines also works on a program to develop advanced prognostic sensors for small- Finally, Edwards is studying proton exchange membranes for possible use in to medium-sized nuclear reactors to be deployed in Third World countries, where automotive fuel cells. These cells could potentially revolutionize our automo- a lack of infrastructure makes remote operation necessary. In order for remote biles, greatly reducing harmful exhaust and severing dependence on foreign operation to be successful, advanced sensors for performance and prognosis are oil. Nafion is the standard polymer used in these membranes, and efforts have necessary. not been made to find newer, more efficient polymers in thirty years. By using However, oil rigs and power plants are just two of the many possible beneficiaries supercomputers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL)–the project is of Hines’ research. He points out that Delta Airlines uses similar algorithms to sponsored by the Department of Energy (DOE)–Edwards hopes to find more monitor engines on their aircraft and Sun Microsystems uses them to keep an efficient polymers for modern fuel cells, perhaps bringing the United States eye on their servers. Furthermore, the federal government has declared that the one step closer to a cheaper, greener future. Department of Defense’s next generation of fighter jet, dubbed the Joint Strike Fighter, needs prognostic capabilities; capabilities that could very well take advan- Edwards also uses Newton, a University of Tennessee computing cluster, and tage of Hines’ algorithms. NASA has likewise expressed interest in Hines’ work for facilities at the National Center for Supercomputing Applications at the Uni- use in its long-flight vehicles, where algorithms could allow machines on lengthy versity of Illinois for all of his projects, allowing him to more efficiently create missions to repair themselves. the everyday products of tomorrow. As Hines continues to improve on his work, new uses for his research continue to be found, whether the problems are hundreds of feet underground or millions of Edwards certainly has a lot on his plate these days, and there is little doubt that miles out in space. the results of his research will someday be a part of everything, including the Story by Scott Jones carpet and the walls.
Story by Scott Jones
TENNESSEE engineer • Spring 2008 Faculty Focus (continued from page 3) Zachariah Named UT Vice “The question we want to answer is why is it that two individuals, born with the same DNA and raised in the same environment, are concordant in their response to pollen President of Science and Technology and other allergens until they are a few years old and then, in many cases, they become discordant, with one but not the other developing a severe allergic response? That this Dr. Thomas Zacharia, the UT-Battelle distinguished professor happens at all may seem surprising to the layperson, but there are useful randomiza- in the Department of Electrical Engineer- tions built into our immune systems that help to explain this behavior. With the high ing and Computer Science (EECS), was quality data we are receiving from Sweden, we are beginning to unravel the breakdown recently appointed as the University of in gene network feedback mechanisms that appear to be root causes for allergen sensi- Tennessee’s new vice president for science tivity and that will eventually, we hope, lead to better treatments.” and technology. In addition to this new role, Zacharia will continue to act as the Langston received his Ph.D. in computer science from Texas A&M University in 1981. associate laboratory director for comput- Before coming to UT, he worked at Washington State University, the University of ing and computational sciences at Oak Illinois and the European division of the University of Maryland. He has authored Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). over 200 refereed journal articles, conference papers, book chapters and other reports Dr. Thomas Zacharia and served on a variety of editorial boards, including the Association for Computing “This new appointment helps to advance Machinery’s flagship publication, Communications of the ACM. Throughout his career, joint research activities,” said Zacharia. Dr. Langston has received honors for duty, teaching, research and service. Most notable “While there are now a number of joint UT/ORNL faculty among these are the Commendation Medal from the U.S. Army in 1979; the Distin- positions, I would like to see the number of these positions guished Teaching Award from Texas A&M University in 1981; the Chancellor’s Award increase, fostering more cooperation and collaboration.” for Research and Creative Achievement from UT in 1994; and the Distinguished Ser- “While the College of Engineering has strong departments and vice Prize from ACM Special Interest Group on Algorithms and Computation Theory a great faculty, there is the potential to make it even stronger, in 2001. The Department of Defense, Department of Energy, the National Science primarily through more interaction between students and Foundation, the Australian Research Council, the European Union and a variety of faculty via mentoring and programs such as internships at both other funding agencies have supported Langston’s work. the UT and ORNL campuses,” Zacharia said. Langston’s three children, Glen, Katie and Keith, said when growing up that they had Zacharia also points to the University of Tennessee Space watched how hard dad worked and never wanted to emulate his example. Neverthe- Institute (UTSI) as another great collaborating opportunity that less, all three graduated from UT and wound up with scientific careers (biomechanical could further strengthen the college. engineering, chemistry and computer science, respectively). “Dr. Zacharia’s appointment as UT vice president for science “I guess it must be in the genes somewhere,” said Langston with a wink as he proudly and technology also provides a unique opportunity for maximiz- shared his children’s achievements. Ina, his wife of over 32 years, is also a UT graduate ing the extraordinary assets generated through this partner- and works as an assistant principal at a local elementary school. ship,” said UT System President John Petersen. “We have great students here at UT,” said Dr. Langston, who loves working with Building bridges between UT and ORNL is a role familiar to students at the university level. “Working alongside them helps keep you young...and Zacharia. In 2007 he led the effort to bring one of the world’s relevant!” most powerful supercomputers to the Joint Institute for Com- Having the freedom to work on his own research agenda appeals to him, as does the putational Sciences, a collaboration between UT and ORNL, flexibility to travel and collaborate with others as needed. “I like calling my own shots,” resulting in a $65 million award from the National Science said Langston. Foundation. “This is a wonderful time to be a scientist. We are confronted with an exciting conflu- “Researchers need increasingly powerful computing resources ence of emerging technologies that give us new problems and, hopefully, new solutions if they are to deliver the breakthroughs that society demands every day,” said Langston. in climate science, energy research, and other fields,” Zacharia said. “This award will guarantee that we are able to deliver those resources.” Story by Amanda Womac The award is the largest research grant ever received by the University of Tennessee. The new partnership, to be led by UT, is called the National Institute for Computational Sciences (NICS), and will facilitate the use of the new supercomputer, to Chancellor’s Message (continued from page 2) be housed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Zacharia received his B.S. in mechanical engineering from to find the best dean possible for the engineering college, and we will continue in this India’s Karnataka Regional Engineering College, his master’s search until we have found a candidate that meets that criterion. degree in material science from the University of Mississippi, The interim dean, Dr. Wayne Davis, who has served the college for over 30 years, and his Ph.D. in engineering science from Clarkson University and the COE administrators, faculty and staff remain committed to continuing the in 1987. college’s advancement. We will continue to keep you informed about the progress of both the chancellor and dean’s searches, and we value your input and comments. Please direct any correspon- In the next edition of dence to [email protected]. ENGIG NEER Information about Homecoming 2008
Jan F. Simek Save the date! Interim Chancellor Saturday, November 8, 2008 The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
TENNESSEE engineer • Spring 2008 STUDENT focus
COE Student Named Co-op Irick Develops Legacy Engine of the Year Finalist Dr. David “Butch” Irick, research assistant professor in the Depart- Hillary Holback, senior in chemical engineering, was recently recog- ment of Mechanical, Aerospace nized as a 2007 Co-op of the Year finalist for her outstanding contribu- and Biomedical Engineering, tions to Eastman Chemical Company. The award, sponsored by the is working with Power Source Cooperative Education Division of the American Society of Engineer- Technologies to develop a simple and unique high-torque rotary ing Education (ASEE), is a national recognition, and members of the engine with a myriad of military, ASEE’s Cooperative Education Division select nominees. industrial and commercial ap- Dr. Doug McWilliams, who works with Eastman’s Specialty Polymers plications. The engine, dubbed Technology Division, nominated Holback for the award. “the Legacy,” is a dream of Mr. Bart Watkins, chairman and “Hillary worked with me on a project related to the development of chief executive officer of Power biaxially-oriented copolyester films as a dielectric film for flexible cir- Source Technologies, whose part- cuits,” said McWilliams. “The project was recognized as important on ners include the University of a corporate level, and Hillary’s work was important to fundamentally Tennessee, Oak Ridge National understand the effects of a process conditions on the performance of Laboratory and Oak Ridge Tool- our material. It was an ambitious project to complete, but Hillary is a Engineering, Inc. The company’s fast learner and began to contribute quickly.” mission is to revolutionize the When Holback first began her education in chemical engineering at the design of the internal combus- University of Tennessee, she felt her career path was set in stone. tion engine. According to Irick, a few of the engine’s attributes Dr. Butch Irick (left) works on the Legacy “Initially, I thought I’d go to college, earn my degree in chemical engi- include more horsepower per Engine. Photo by Michael Patrick, Knoxville neering and work in industry,” said Holback. However, after deciding pound of engine weight; a 25 News-Sentinel to co-op through UT’s Office of Professional Practice in order to gain percent lower production cost job experience, Holback felt very differently about what she wanted because of fewer and simpler components; ability to use most any fuel from life. more efficiently; and reduced emissions due to the efficient manner in which it burns fuel. Irick believes the Legacy could be brought to market “After four years of experiences, I realized that I don’t have to be like much more easily than fuel cell vehicles because it is near-term technol- everyone else. I came to understand that not everyone who obtains ogy and can use much of the same diesel technology that exists now for a particular degree uses it for the same expected end,” said Holback. fuel injection and peripheral functions. Both Watkins and Irick believe “Looking back at my initial and current perspectives on my career path, applications for the Legacy engine are unlimited. the drastic change could be considered a metamorphosis. In actuality, I attribute gradually figuring out what profession suits me to my co-op Story by Amanda Womac experiences.” Holback worked four different co-op assignments with Eastman Chemi- cal Company, one of which took her to Workington, England, for a month during the summer of 2006. While working in the Global PET of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics at Technology division of Eastman’s Cornell University. England facility, Holback, under the leadership of Emily Frasier, After graduation this spring, Holback approximated flow rates and plans to study pharmaceutical science estimated vessel sizes required for on the Ph.D. level in order to reach her production of a new additive and ultimate goal: a career in research and created conceptual drawings for development. the new additive system. “I no longer see my career as being set “I would not have had the oppor- in stone,” said Holback. “These last few tunity to explore another part of years have shown me that I cannot always the world in a business setting had foresee the contributions I may one day it not been for Eastman,” said Hol- provide in my profession, in the same way back. “The experience in England that co-oping made unexpected contribu- has encouraged me to do research tions to my career decisions.” or work abroad for a couple of Hillary Holback (center, right) is congratulated for her honor by (left to right) Bamin Khomami, head of the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering; Masood “The Office of Professional Practice is years because I understand the Parang, Associate Dean for Student Affairs; and Walter Odom, Director of the Office of importance of being versatile, both Professional Practice. thrilled with Hillary’s honor and with her culturally and professionally.” success in our program,” said OPP Direc- tor Walter Odom. “We hope other stu- Before coming to UT, Holback received an International Baccalaureate dents will take advantages of our international opportunities in the future.” diploma from Wilson High School in Florence, S.C. During her time there, she studied the influence of colored plastic mulches on plant For more information on the Office of Professional Practice’s co-op and chemistry during an apprenticeship with the USDA Agricultural Re- internship opportunities, visit http://www.coop.utk.edu or contact the OPP search Service Coastal Plains Research Center. The previous year, Hol- by phone at (865) 974-5323. back again worked as an apprentice, but this time with the Department Story by Amanda Womac
TENNESSEE engineer • Spring 2008 College of Engineering Celebrates Excellence at 2007-2008 Honors Banquet The University of Tennessee College of Engineering 2008 Honors Award, which was accepted by her husband, Dr. Doug Birdwell from the Banquet took place on Tuesday, April 8 in the University Center Ball- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. room. The theme for this year’s event was “A Legacy of Accountability.” Davis announced the 2008 Research Fellow Awards: Dr. Hahn Choo, Depart- ment of Materials Science and Engineering; Dr. Chris Cox, Department of COE Dean Way Kuo welcomed guests and announced his departure from Civil and Environmental Engineering; the college May 9 to assume the presidency of City University of Hong Dr. Ali Fathy, Department of Electrical Kong. He expressed his appreciation to the staff, faculty and students of Engineering and Computer Science; the college for their hard work and dedication during his tenure at UT. Dr. Bin Hu, Department of Materials Science and Engineering; Dr. David UT-Knoxville Provost Bob Holub praised Kuo in his comments for the Keffer, Department of Chemical and extensive progress that the college has made during the past four years, Biomolecular Engineering; Dr. Michael and announced that Associate Dean for Research and Technology Wayne Langston, Department of Electrical Davis would serve as interim dean. Engineering and Computer Science; Dr. Hairong Qi, Department of Electri- The Outstanding Support Staff Award, presented by Associate Dean for cal Engineering and Computer Science; COE 2008 Research Fellows Academic Affairs Alberto Garcia, was the first recognition of the evening. Dr. John Schwartz, Department of Civil William Holloway, Materials Control Supervisor in the Department of & Environmental Engineering; and Dr. Larry Townsend, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Nuclear Engineering. received the award. Associate Dean for Student Affairs Masood Parang presented the student Garcia also presented the faculty awards, which included the Eastman Chemical Company Chemical Scholar awards, which included: Dr. Claudia for 2008, awarded to Shelley Elise Parker. The Tau Beta Pi Awards went to Rawn, Department of Materials Sci- Kourtney Henderson, senior, Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and ence, Outstanding Faculty Advisor Biomedical Engineering and to Margaret Cunningham, junior, Department Award; Dr. David Keffer, Depart- of Nuclear Engineering. The Peter Barile Sr. Design Competition Awards were ment of Chemical and Biomolecular given to Charles Greg, Rachel McCord and Joel Riddle, graduate students in Engineering, Allen & Hoshall the M.S.-M.B.A. program, who received the first place honor; second place COE Faculty Awards Award; Dr. Peter Liaw, Depart- went to Bryan Bollinger, Jeffrey Earp and Russell Goss, who are also graduate ment of Materials Science, Moses students in the program. Parang also recognized the Office of Professional E. and Mayme Brooks Award; Will Schleter, Engineering Fundamentals Practice Ambassadors and the COE Ambassadors. Division, Leon and Nancy Cole Superior Teaching Award; Dr. Robert “Pete” Counce, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineer- The evening ended with a standing ovation for Kuo in recognition of his ing, Charles Edward Ferris Award; and Dr. Tse Wei Wang, Department outstanding leadership during the last four years. of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, the COE Teaching Fellow Story by Kim Cowart
NSF Conference (continued from page 2)
After the opening session, Dr. Lee Riedinger, professor of physics at UT Wednesday, January 9, over 700 conference participants and COE and one of the conference co-chairs, introduced the keynote speaker for administrators and faculty attended the Conference Banquet. Dr. Peter Tuesday morning’s opening session, Dr. Jeffrey Wadsworth, Executive Liaw, John Fisher Professor and Ivan Racheff Chair of Excellence in the Vice President for Global Labora- Department of Materials Science and tory Operations, Battelle Memorial Engineering and the other conference co- Institute. Wadsworth is also the for- chair, welcomed guests to the event. Kim mer director of Oak Ridge National Cowart, COE communications director Laboratory (ORNL). and the conference facilitator, introduced Conference attendees had the option the banquet speaker, East Tennessee of attending technical tours showcas- filmmaker and director Keith McDaniel. ing the research projects and capabili- McDaniel discussed his award-winning ties of select labs at UT, two facilities documentary film, “Secret City: the Oak of Siemens Molecular Imaging Inc., Ridge Story” and showed clips of the ORNL (the Spallation Neutron documentary during his remarks. Source and the supercomputer) and Sponsors for the conference included the the Y-12 National Security Complex National Science Foundation; the UT (Calutrons and Gantry Mill). The College of Engineering; ORNL; Dow; response from tour participants indi- DuPont; Eastman; and Shaw Industries. cated that the tours were an extreme- “This historical event not only provided a ly positive experience and a definite valuable conference experience to attend- Rebecca Hartman-Baker of the National Center for Computational Science guides high point of the event. Over half of ees, but also brought national attention to the conference attendees participated a tour of the facility for NSF conference visitors. A large percentage of conference attendees participated in the technical tours. the exceptional research and educational in the tours. resources at UT, the college and ORNL,” said Kuo. Story by Kim Cowart
TENNESSEE engineer • Spring 20082005 ALUMNI profile
Alumnus Spruell Driver Believes in the Power of an Engineering Degree Although Spruell Driver does not work directly After receiving his bachelor’s degree, Driver, who Administrative Office of the Tennessee Su- in the engineering field, he knows the value of was also named as a UT Torchbearer, the highest preme Court in 2000, where he managed state- a degree from the University of Tennessee Col- honor for UT students, decided to attend Duke wide programs related to dispute resolution, lege of Engineering: “priceless.” Law School, where he received a law degree in judicial education and court improvement and Driver, who graduated in 1987 with a degree 1991. reporting services. He returned to private legal in industrial engineering, is currently an practice in 2002. attorney with the law firm of Waller, Lans- Driver has been a strong supporter of the den, Dortch & Davis LLP. Driver’s practice University of Tennessee, serving as president focuses on commercial real estate law, and he of the UT National Alumni Association in is responsible for working with business clients 2004-2005. He traveled throughout the state in all types of commercial real estate transac- and beyond, representing the university’s tions, including acquiring, developing, selling more than 300,000 alumni. Driver also and/or leasing property. served as National Chair of the association’s Driver was born and raised in Nashville, Tenn. Annual Giving Program in 2005-2006 and When he began looking at universities, it was was also member of the COE Board of Advi- the Minority Engineering Scholarship Program sors. (MESP) that attracted Driver to the University “The education that I received from UT of Tennessee. was priceless,” said Driver. “I appreciate the “The program was second to none,” said difference it made and continues to make in Driver. “Equally attractive was the tremendous my life, and I want to do all that I can to help array of corporate partners, such as my co-op ensure that future generations of students can employer, Eastman Chemical Company, who reap the rewards of the outstanding educa- underwrote the scholarship and provided tional opportunities available at UT.” engineering co-op assignments to scholarship Driver was the commencement speaker for recipients. The MESP had been in existence the University of Tennessee’s 2007 Winter for almost 10 years when I enrolled as a fresh- Commencement Ceremonies. When asked man, and it had a very successful track record what he would say to today’s engineering under the leadership of Mr. Fred Brown, the students, he offers the following: director, and Dr. Andrew Spickard, who was “First, master the fundamentals of your the assistant dean of engineering at that time.” engineering course of study. Second, but no Driver chose to major in industrial engineer- Spruell Driver is a strong supporter of UT, and served as president less important, hone your written communi- ing and was impressed by the mentoring he of the University of Tennessee Alumni Association in 2004-2005 cations skills by taking additional coursework received from many COE administrators and beyond that traditionally required for engi- faculty. neering students. Third, read the book titled After graduating from Duke Law School, Driver “I remember people like engineering profes- The World is Flat and find a way to spend a accepted a position as a corporate attorney with semester studying and living abroad. American sors Hal Eastman Chemi- Aiken and cal Company in Dan Doulet Kingsport, Tenn. “The education that I received from UT was from the He returned to priceless. I appreciate the difference it made Department Nashville in 1996 and continues to make in my life, and I of Industrial as an attorney with want to do all that I can to help ensure that future generations of students can reap the Engineering Baker, Donel- (IE) as well rewards of the outstanding educational op- son, Bearman & portunities available at UT.” as Osama Caldwell, P.C. In Solomon 1998, Driver was –Spruell Driver from the De- named a legislative partment of attorney for the Engineering Spruell Driver served as the speaker for UT’s 2007 Winter Tennessee General Science and professionals in all disciplines must continu- Commencement Ceremony. Assembly and served as Special ously strive to gain a better understanding of Mechanics, Counsel to the Speaker of the and of course Dr. Bill Snyder, who was dean of the new world economy in which we must House of Representatives, working closely with compete.” the college at that time,” added Driver. “They many House committees and caucuses. really helped us to excel in our engineering Driver lives in Nashville with his wife, Elaine studies.” Driver was chosen as director for the Judicial Willis Driver, a 1985 UT graduate, and their Education and Program Services Division of the two children Elise, 8, and Spruell III, 2. Story by Kim Cowart
TENNESSEE engineer • Spring 2008 DEVELOPMENT notes
The Campaign for Tennessee Check out the College of Engineering’s The University of Tennessee will publicly announced The Campaign online newsletter for Tennessee, a major $1 billion fundraising initiative that includes all UT campuses and institutes, on April 17th, 2008. The College of ENGIG NEER Engineering is a major component of the university’s efforts with a online goal of $75 million. This goal is itself part of further college funding needs that total http://www.engr.utk.edu/tnengr/index.html $193 million. Gifts to the college through the campaign–and the transformative change they will accomplish–will only be achieved as we engage our alumni, corporate partners and other friends of engineering to invest with us College of Engineering • Board of Advisors for the future.
So where are we and what does it mean? The Dr. Bert Ackermann Jr. Mr. Dwight N. Hutchins college has reached 47 percent of its campaign (BS/NE ’65, MS/NE ’67, PhD/NE ’71) (BS/ChE ’86) goal with 3 years, 9 months to go. This is CEO, SPINLAB Partner nothing short of amazing considering that Knoxville, Tenn. Accenture Washington, D.C. Mrs. Karyl Bartlett the engineering development office has been Dorothy Barkley Bryson seriously understaffed for several years. The (BS/ME ’84, MBA ’00) Mr. Steven D. Lucas Director, Composite Manufacturing Center (BS/CE ’81, MA/CE ‘83) college’s progress to goal is a tribute to the The Boeing Company COO passion our alumni, current and former faculty and other friends have Seattle, Wash. Denark Construction, Inc. Knoxville, Tenn. for engineering. You recognize the national imperative for engineering Mr. Howard E. Chambers education and you clearly understand that private support is a signifi- (BS/ME ’64) Dr. H. Lee Martin cant force that will propel our momentum. VP/GM The Boeing Company Foundation (BS/ME ’78 PhD/ME ’86) Seal Beach, Calif. Managing Member To this end, the Development Office is working rapidly to staff the Clarity Resources, LLC Dr. Tom F. Cheek Jr. office with three professionals who will be on the road making con- Knoxville, Tenn. (BS/EE ’61, PhD/EE ’69) nections to philanthropic partners–alumni, companies and others. Vice President of R & D Mr. Edwin A. McDougle Dorothy Barkley Bryson, Associate Vice Chancellor for Development Epic Systems, Inc. (BS/CEE ’69, MS/CEE ’75) and a UT fundraising veteran, accepted the position of Interim Senior Dallas, Texas Principal Ross Bryan Associates, Inc. Engineers Director effective February 1. Dorothy’s move to 120 Perkins has put Mrs. Nancy C. Cole Nashville, Tenn. a face and immediate energy towards the college’s efforts. A search for (BS/ME ‘73, MS/ME ‘88) a Director and Assistant Director has resulted in excellent candidates Engineering Consultant Mr. Mark A. Medley and hiring is imminent. Fernandina Beach, Fla. (BS/ME ’69, MBA/Ind. Mgmt., ’70) President and CEO Mr. Joe C. Cook Jr. Control Technology, Inc. Our campaign goals reflect immediate priorities that will advance the (BS/IE ’65) Knoxville, Tenn. UT COE. Founder and Principal Mountain Group Capital, LLC Mr. Andrew K. Phelps Faculty Support: Our faculty members fuel success by preparing stu- Nashville, Tenn. Vice President and dents for creative problem-solving and supplying innovations to ben- Deputy General Manager Dr. Mark E. Dean Bechtel Jacobs Company, LLC efit society. Support for faculty ensures a true standard of excellence. (BS/EE ’79) Oak Ridge, Tenn. Student Support: Scholarships and Fellowships enable us to support IBM Fellow and Vice President Almaden Research Center Mr. James B. Porter Jr. students who will shape the future of the world. Our ability to attract San Jose, Calif. (BS/ChE ’65) top students is a key factor in our academic reputation. Vice President of Engineering and Mr. Dennis A. Deniham Operations Program Support: An infusion of funding supports the underlying (BS/ChE ‘72) E.I. DuPont de Nemours Corp. Retired work of our co-op, diversity, and international initiatives. Wilmington, Del. Shallotte, N.C. Facilities Support: To be fully effective our new buildings must be Mr. Richard T. Snead Dr. R. G. Gilliland (BS/IE ’73) outfitted with state-of-the-art infrastructures that advance teaching and (BS/ChE ’58, MS/MetE ’63) President and CEO technologies. Retired Carlson Restaurants Worldwide Pittsburgh, Pa. Your investment in the UT College of Engineering is making a dif- Carrollton, Texas Mr. Ron Green ference. For more information about creating an endowment, giving Mr. Eric L Zeanah (BS/EPh ’70, MS/EPh ’78) (BS/IE ‘84) through estate plans, or ways to give stocks and other appreciated Chairman President/Owner assets please contact: ADVATECH, LLC American Accessories International Charlotte, N.C. Dorothy Barkley Bryson Knoxville, Tenn. Associate Vice Chancellor and Mr. Michael W. Howard Interim Senior Director (BS/EE ‘80, PhD ‘96) Senior VP R & D 120 Perkins Hall Electric Power Research Institute Knoxville, Tennessee 37996 Charlotte, N.C. 865-974-2779 Story by Dorothy Bryson and Kim Cowart
TENNESSEE engineer • Spring 2008 ALUMNI news
1930s Year for Fiscal Year 2006 from the Charles Denny Armstrong (BS/ME Bobby Roberts (BS/ME ‘59) died Louis King (BS/EE ‘38) received the Department of Energy. She lives in ‘50) died December 19, 2007. He March 15, 2008. He lived in Athens, National Association of Broadcasters Knoxville, Tenn. lived in Farragut, Tenn. Tenn.
2007 award for engineering achieve- William Sallee Sr. (BS/EE ‘50) James Harrell Jr. (BS/ChE ‘60) died Charles McNeil ( ) joined ment. He lives in Bristol, Tenn. BS/AE ‘89 died February 25, 2008. He lived in May 10, 2007. He lived in Wayne, Rolls Royce Corporation as senior Clinton, Tenn. Pa. specialist mechanical engineer. He 1960s lives in Monrovia, Ind. Robert Albern Williamson (BS/ Michael Bamberg (BS/ME ‘65) Richard Anderson (BS/IE ‘65) joined ChE ‘50) died February 22, 2008. He died October 1, 2007 He lived in lived in Oak Ridge, Tenn. Birmingham, Ala. Barge Waggoner Summer & Cannon 1990s Inc. in the firm’s Oak Ridge office. Boyd Neblett (BS/EE ‘52) died Edwin Edgar Morton III (BS/EE Joshua Gerkin (BS/CE ‘98) was He lives in Maryville, Tenn. September 29, 2007. He lived in ‘70) died February 10, 2008. He promoted to account executive with Huntsville, Ala. lived in Knoxville, Tenn. Ralph Baldock (BS/IE ‘69; MS/IE FM Global’s Cleveland Operations ‘79) was awarded the Fellow Award in in North Olmsted, Ohio. He lives in Jeff Cutcher Jr. (BS/ME ‘57) died Ronald E. Jones (BS/Engr. ‘73) 2006 by the Institute of Industrial En- Medina, Ohio. September 5, 2007. He lived in died January 30, 2008. He lived in gineers. He lives in Kingsport, Tenn. Knoxville, Tenn. Lexington, Ky. Lorie Pettus Jones (BS/ME ‘98) was 1970s promoted to continuous improve- COE Graduate is Named Brigadier General with ment manager at Graphic Packaging Sirikalaya Suvachittanont (BS/ChE International Inc. in Lawrenceburg, Command of 455th Air Expeditionary Wing ‘76) is an associate professor at Kaset- Tenn. She lives in Ethridge, Tenn. On March 12, 2008, Knoxville native and COE sart University and an Energy Con- electrical engineering alumni, Colonel James Michael servation Consultant in Thailand. Kevin Parish (BS/EE ‘98) was “Mike” Holmes, was promoted to brigadier general promoted to lead power systems and took command of the 455th Air Expedition- Dr. William Vaughan (PhD/ES ‘76) engineer at Progress Energy and ary Wing from Brig. General. James Hyatt during a received the AIAA Distinguished currently works in the Plant Con- change-of-command ceremony at Bagram Air Base, Service Award. He lives in Hunts- struction Department. He lives in Afghanistan. ville, Ala. Garner, N.C. Holmes grew up on the UT dairy farm and attended 1980s Dr. Neal Oldham (BS/MSE ‘99) was Knoxville’s West High School. During his years as a General Holmes recently hired as a Senior Process UT engineering student, Holmes took part in a co-op Brian Mahoney (BS/CE ‘82; MA/ Engineer at Apple, Inc. He lives in program and worked with NASA engineers at Kennedy Space Center at CE ‘84) was elected to Barge Wag- San Jose, Calif. Cape Canaveral, Fla., where he became interested in military flying. goner Summer & Cannon’s board of directors. He lives in Powell, 2000s After receiving his engineering degree in 1981, Holmes went through Air Tenn. Force Officer Training School and later earned a slot in fighter training. Dr. Pamela Murray Moor (BS/ME His command resume includes a fighter squadron, a specialized under- Richard Egli (BS/NE ‘83) traveled to ’00, MS/ME ’01, PhD/ME ‘07) is a graduate pilot training group and a fighter wing. He also served as Chief, Beijing, China, with other Nuclear technical project manager at Y-12 CHECKMAKE, Directorate of Operational Plans and Joint Matters. He Regulatory Commission staff mem- National Security Complex in Oak has worked on the United States European Command, Pacific Air Forces bers to provide technical training to Ridge, Tenn. She lives in Knoxville, and United States Air Force staffs. He most recently served as Director the Chinese on the Westinghouse Tenn. of Strategic Plans, Programs and International Affairs on the Pacific Air AP 1000 Nuclear Reactor design. He Forces Staff. lives in Charleston, Tenn. Jeremy Smith (BS/AE ‘02) earned a master’s degree in aeronautical engi- He has put in more than 3,400 flying hours in all variants of the F-15 Strike Eagle and continues to fly combat missions in Afghanistan. Anthon Harden (BS/CE ‘83) was neering from the Air Force Institute promoted to director of preconstruc- of Technology and was transferred to He is responsible for the air and support operations at two bases and tion with BE&K Building Group. Eglin Air Force Base to be an aircraft one operating location supporting Operation Enduring Freedom and the He lives in Pelzer, S.C. store separations engineer. He lives International Security Assistance Force. As wing commander, Holmes in Fort Walton Beach, Fla. directs four group commanders and continues to fly on combat missions Michele Gordon Branton (BS/NE Chad Ott (BS/AE ‘03) is serving several times each week with his wing. ‘84) is deputy assistant manager with the First Battalion, 508th for science for the Department of Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Holmes also has a Master of Arts in history from the University of Ala- Energy’s Oak Ridge office. She lives Airborne Division in Afghanistan as bama, a Master of Airpower Arts and Sciences from Air University, Max- in Powell, Tenn. the battalions signal officer. well Air Force Base and a Master of National Defense Studies from the Naval War College. He is also a National Defense Studies Fellow at the Dr. K. Scott Malone (BS/ES ‘85) Memorials Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. is the lead team physician for Fort Wilson Tucker (BS/ChE ‘38) died Valley State University. He lives in February 21, 2008. He lived in Rock Macon, Ga. Hill, Tenn. Melvin Kirk (BS/IE ‘87) is a Busi- Thomas Mackey (BS/ChE ‘43) died A number of COE alumni will remember Carolyn Wag- ness Process Manager with General February 17, 2008. He lived ner, who worked for the UT College of Engineering for Electric. He lives in Atlanta, Ga. Bearden, Tenn. 27 years. Mrs. Wagner died Sunday, April 13, 2008. She
Major Joseph Owen (BS/CS ‘47) was a loyal UT sports fan and was especially dedicated Misty Mayes (BS/IE’ 88) received to the Lady Vols Basketball Team. Mrs. Wagner and two awards, Woman-owned Small died March 3, 2008. He lived in Knoxville, Tenn. her husband, Jack, also enjoyed attending the college’s Business Contractor of the Year and Alumni Homecoming Barbeque events. Small Business Service Firm of the
10 TENNESSEE engineer • Spring 2008 11 HONORS, EVENTS
& awards Exxon Mobil Corporation Provides Dongarra Receives IEEE Medal of Excellence Funding to COE Dr. Jack Dongarra, University Distin- The Exxon Mobil Corporation guished Professor in the Department of presented a check for $18,000 in Electrical Engineering and Computer Sci- unrestricted departmental grants ence, was selected as the recipient of the to the UT College of Engineering first Institute for Electrical and Electron- in October 2007. The funding in- ics Engineers (IEEE) Medal of Excellence cludes support for the Department in Scalable Computing for significant of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering as well as the mechani- contributions to the scalable computing cal and civil engineering programs. community through the Technical Com- The unrestricted grant allows the mittee on Scalable Computing (TCSC) selected academic departments and/or its activities, coupled with an out- to allocate the money for various standing record of high quality and high educational purposes including impact research. For more information, scholarships, field trips, visiting speakers, equipment purchases, student visit http://www.ieeetcsc.org/awards/ and faculty travel to academic-related activities and other educational ieee-medal.html. projects. Career Services Director Russ Coughenour (left) represented the Dr. Jack Dongarra COE during the check presentation with UT engineering alumnus and UT-Knoxville Recruiting Team Captain for Exxon Nathan Keesecker (right). COE OED Director Receives Diversity Award Bechtel Presents Check to College James Pippin, director of the COE ‘s Office of Engineering Diversity, Mr. Andrew Phelps (left), principal was honored with vice president of Bechtel, Inc., pre- the Outstanding sented a check to Dean Kuo (right) Minority Engi- Thursday, February 14, 2008, on neering Program behalf of Bechtel, Inc. The $5,000 Director’s Award gift will contribute to the future of from the Mul- engineering education and research ticultural Engi- within the college. Mr. Phelps is neering Program also a long-time member of the Advocates. College of Engineering’s Board of Pippin, who Advisors. has directed the COE’s diversity programs since COE Celebrates with Holiday Party 1984 received the award at the 29th Annual National Association of Jim Pippin (right) receives the Outstanding Minority Engineering Program Director’s award from Greg Singleton, (left) Multicultural Director of the Multicultural Engineering Program at the Univer- Engineering Pro- sity of Alabama at the conference in Atlanta. gram Advocate’s Conference in Atlanta, Ga. on January 25, 2008. Flandro is Named Fellow of AIAA Dr. Gary Flandro, professor at the University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI), has been named a Fellow of the Ameri- can Institute of Aeronautics (AIAA) and Astronautics. Flan- dro was among 30 of the world’s finest contributors to the fields of aeronautics or astronautics Dr. Way Kuo and the College of Engineering hosted UT and COE selected by AIAA and its Board administrators, faculty and staff at the college’s annual holiday of Directors who will receive the party on Monday, December 10th, 2007. The event took place at title of Fellow at the Aerospace the McClung Museum and featured delicious food and seasonal Spotlight Awards Gala May 13, Dr. Don Daniel (right), Director of the UT Space music in a beautiful setting. Guests included UT System President 2008, at the Ronald Reagan Institute, congratulates Dr. Gary Flandro on his John Petersen (right) and his wife Carol (left), who joined Kuo AIAA Fellow honor Building and International (center) in greeting party guests. Trade Center in Washington D.C. He has been a faculty member at UTSI and has occupied the Boling Chair of Excellence in Space Propulsion since 1991.
10 TENNESSEE engineer • Spring 2008 11 Calendar President of Chinese Academy of Engineering Visits the COE 2008 - UPDATE Spring Commencement...... May 9 Fall Classes Begin...... Aug. 20 Labor Day Holiday...... Sept. 1 Fall Break...... Oct. 9-10 Engineers Day...... Oct. 16 Homecoming...... Nov. 8 Thanksgiving...... Nov. 27-28 Classes End...... Dec. 2 Fall Commencement...... Dec. 13 Contact Information Senior Administration Dr. Way Kuo, Dean of Engineering and University Distinguished Professor Dr. Wayne T. Davis, Associate Dean for Research & Technology Dr. Xu (right) is welcomed by Dean Way Kuo (left) Dr. Alberto Garcia, Associate Dean for and COE engineering students. Academic Affairs Dr. Masood Parang, Associate Dean for Dr. C.T. Liu, COE Distinguished Research Student Affairs Professor (right) greets Dr. and Mrs. Xu upon their arrival. Administration & Programs Communications...... 974-0533 Dr. Kuangdi Xu, the president of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and the president of the Dean’s Office...... 974-5321 China-US People’s Friendship Association, visited the University of Tennessee October 3, 2007 Development...... 974-2779 to present “The Major Achievements of the Chinese Steel Industry” as part of the College of Engineering Academic Affairs...... 974-6092 Engineering Diversity Programs.... 974-1956 Engineering’s Distinguished Lecture Series. Engineering Fundamentals...... 974-9810 Recognized as an eminent metallurgist in China, Xu has also been elected as the Foreign Member Engineering Research...... 974-8360 Engineering Student Affairs...... 974-2454 of the Royal Academy of Engineering, United Kingdom, and the Foreign Member of the Royal Finance & Admin. Affairs...... 974-5279 Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA). He is also an Honorary Fellow of the Institu- Office of Professional Practice..... 974-5323 tion of Civil Engineers (ICE), United Kingdom. Departments In his lecture, Xu reviewed the major achievements of the Chinese iron and steel industry, includ- Chemical & Biomolecular...... 974-2421 Civil & Environmental...... 974-2503 ing the development of new materials, environmentally friendly manufacturing and the extrac- Electrical & Computer...... 974-3461 tion of useful hydrogen from the waste gas of metallurgical furnaces. Industrial & Information...... 974-3333 Materials Science ...... 974-5336 Xu’s wife, Mrs. Luoping Xu, who is a professor at Shanghai University, accompanied him on the Mechanical, Aerospace & visit as well as entourages from the Chinese Academy of Engineering and the Chinese Academy Biomedical...... 974-5117 of Science. Nuclear...... 974-2525 Research Centers Materials Processing...... 974-0816 The University of Tennessee is an EE)/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA institution in Maintenance & Reliability...... 974-9625 the provision of its education and employment programs and services. Scintillation Materials...... 974-0267 All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to Transportation Research...... 974-5255 race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability or covered veteran status.
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The University of Tennessee PAID College of Engineering Permit No. 481 207 Perkins Hall Knoxville, TN Knoxville, TN 37996-2012