Industrial Advisory Board
The Mechanical Engineering Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) serves as a vital link between the department and the industries our graduates will help shape. Composed of accomplished leaders from engineering, manufacturing, energy, technology, research, and related fields, the board provides valuable insight into emerging industry trends, workforce needs, and professional expectations.
Working in partnership with department leadership, faculty, and students, the IAB helps ensure that our curriculum remains relevant, rigorous, and aligned with the evolving demands of the engineering profession. Their guidance supports continuous program improvement, strengthens industry engagement, and helps prepare graduates for successful careers in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
In addition to advising on academic programs and strategic initiatives, IAB members serve as advocates for the department, fostering connections that create opportunities for student learning, research collaboration, professional development, and career advancement.
Board members serve three-year terms on a voluntary basis and bring a wealth of expertise from organizations across the public and private sectors.
Current IAB Members
- Florence D. Hudson (Chair), Executive Director, Northeast Big Data Innovation Hub
- Darius Bobelis (Vice Chair), Sr. Manager, Product Development Engineering, Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
- Tom Butcher, Head of Energy Resources Division, Brookhaven National Laboratory
- Subimal Chakraborti, P.E., Executive Vice President, SIMCO Engineering, P.C.
- Mike Zona, Sr. Engineering Manager, Festo
- David Melo, VP of Engineering, AMETEK Thermal Systems Inc.
- Leonard Poveromo, Executive Director, Composite Prototyping Center
- Russell C. Slanover, Esq. & P.E.