Director, School of Engineering (Professor)
986262
College of Aeronautics and Engineering, Kent State University
Kent State University invites applications and nominations for the position of Director of the School of Engineering in the College of Aeronautics and Engineering (CAE). This is a full-time, twelve-month, tenured faculty position at the rank of Professor, with a renewable ‑five-year‑ administrative appointment. The preferred start date is January 2026, though a later start date will be considered.
The School of Engineering was officially launched in July 2025, marking a significant milestone in the continued growth and evolution of the College. As the inaugural Director, the successful candidate will have a unique opportunity to shape the strategic direction, culture, and long-term‑ success of the newly launched School of Engineering within a dynamic and interdisciplinary college.
The School of Engineering currently offers thirteen undergraduate and graduate programs spanning aerospace, computer, cybersecurity, industrial and systems, mechanical, and mechatronics engineering disciplines. These include both undergraduate and graduate engineering and engineering technology degree programs, reflecting a balance of theoretical and applied approaches. The School is poised for significant growth in enrollment, academic programming, externally funded research, and corporate partnerships. It also plays an important role in supporting the College of Aeronautics and Engineering’s expanding international initiatives across Africa, Asia, South America, and Europe.
Position Summary
The Director will provide dynamic and forward-looking leadership to advance the School of Engineering’s strategic priorities. This includes guiding continued growth in undergraduate and graduate education, building research capacity‑ and scholarly productivity across multiple engineering disciplines, expanding engagement with industry and government partners, and strengthening the School’s national and international visibility. The School is home to growing research centers focused on cybersecurity and digital engineering, which the Director will be expected to support, expand, and elevate in distinction.
In collaboration with the Dean, the Director will also contribute to philanthropic efforts, external outreach, and the strengthening of alumni networks. This includes participating in visits with corporate, governmental, and legislative stakeholders, and representing the School in advancing the College’s strategic goals throughout the state and beyond.
The Director will work closely with the incoming Director of the School of Aeronautics to promote interdisciplinary collaboration, operational synergy, and a unified vision for innovation across the College of Aeronautics and Engineering.
About Kent State University and the College of Aeronautics and Engineering
Kent State University is a public R1 university serving more than 33,000 students across eight campuses. It has been nationally recognized for its student success, affordability, and commitment to research and innovation. The College of Aeronautics and Engineering (CAE) is one of the fastest-growing academic units at the university, with undergraduate enrollment in the college tripling over the past five years. CAE offers programs at both the Aeronautics and Engineering Complex on the Kent Campus and the FedEx Aeronautics Academic Center located at the Kent State University Airport—one of the few university-owned and operated airports in the country.
The College of Aeronautics and Engineering boasts state-of-the-industry teaching laboratories and well-supported research facilities for both engineering and aeronautics. In 2023, CAE completed an over $24M major expansion of its Kent Campus complex, adding more than 40,000 square feet of new space. The college is also in the midst of a $40M capital campaign to construct three new facilities at the airport dedicated to advanced air mobility maintenance, manufacturing, and workforce development. With strong industry partnerships and investments in future-focused domains such as advanced air mobility, digital engineering, smart manufacturing, and aerospace innovation, CAE offers an unmatched opportunity for academic leadership and impact. The School of Engineering is a critical part of this forward momentum.
Position Expectations:
The Director is expected to:
- Develop and execute a strategic vision for the School of Engineering that aligns with the mission of the College of Aeronautics and Engineering.
- Support and mentor faculty in teaching, research, and service while fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity, mutual respect, and academic freedom.
- Promote student success and expand enrollment through innovative curriculum development and experiential learning opportunities.
- Strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration within CAE and across the university.
- Grow externally funded research and center based‑ initiatives, particularly in digital engineering, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and smart mobility.
- Support program accreditation and continuous improvement processes in alignment with university, state, and national standards.
- Build strong partnerships with industry, government, and alumni, and contribute to the growth of international collaborations through the College’s global engagement strategy.
- Collaborate with the Dean on philanthropic outreach and alumni engagement efforts.
- Manage budgets, personnel, program accreditation, and internal operations effectively and transparently.
Required Qualifications
- An earned doctorate in engineering or a closely related field.
- A record of excellence in scholarship and funded research, teaching, and service that merits appointment as a tenured professor at an R1 institution.
- Demonstrated leadership experience, which may include service as a department chair, associate chair, or director of undergraduate or graduate programs, or other academic administrative roles.
- Commitment to fostering a collaborative and welcoming academic environment that encourages diversity of thought and constructive dialogue.
- Evidence of strategic vision, team‑building skills, and the ability to foster a supportive academic culture.
Preferred Qualifications
- Academic background in a discipline that aligns with one or more of the School’s existing programs.
- Experience with ABET accreditation and program assessment.
- Success in developing industry partnerships and externally funded research initiatives.
- Experience mentoring faculty, leading interdisciplinary efforts, and managing academic budgets.
- Engagement in both institutional and professional service, including leadership roles in national or international engineering organizations.
Application Requirements
Applicants should submit the following materials in PDF format:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Cover Letter summarizing leadership qualifications, academic accomplishments, and interest in the position
- Leadership Statement addressing the candidate’s leadership philosophy, teaching and research philosophies, and vision for the School of Engineering
- Names and contact information for five references
Application Timeline
To be guaranteed consideration, candidates should apply by Friday, September 5th. Applications will be reviewed beginning on this date and will continue until the position is filled.
Preferred start date: January 2026
