Dr. Ahad Nasab, center, speaks at the grand opening of the Robotics, Intelligent Systems and Control Lab on Thursday, May 4. Photo by Angela Foster.
Dr. Ahad Nasab has been appointed interim dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga announced today. Nasab has been head of the Department of Engineering Management and Technology and Burkett Miller Chair of Excellence since coming to UTC in 2018.
Dr. Jerold L. Hale, UTC provost and senior vice chancellor for academic affairs, announced the interim appointment.
“With over 30 years of experience developing and directing engineering and engineering technology programs, Dr. Nasab has the knowledge and expertise to succeed in this role,” Hale said.
“Ahad brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this position. Given his demonstrated leadership abilities and dedication to academic excellence, I have no doubt that he will offer the faculty, staff and students of the CECS invaluable direction and assistance during this interim period.”
Dr. Ahad Nasab
As head of the Department of Engineering Management and Technology, Nasab has overseen the significant growth of the engineering management, mechatronics and construction management programs. He has been at the forefront of creating two cutting-edge labs and growing the newly-established mechatronics program from five students to nearly 100 in just five years.
The engineering management program has earned national recognition during his stewardship, and he has been a driving force in establishing partnerships with numerous community colleges throughout the region.
“The College of Engineering and Computer Science is currently experiencing an exciting and challenging phase,” Nasab said. “There’s a strong momentum in the college’s research areas of machine learning, quantum computing, hypersonic flights, smart power grids, transportation logistics and intelligent robotics. As we move on this trajectory, our primary objective is to engage a larger community of companies and organizations in our activities.
“We also remain steadfast in our commitment to preparing the next generation of skilled professionals to meet the evolving demands of the industry in the southeast region of the country.”
During his lengthy higher education career, Nasab also has taught at Middle Tennessee State University, Vanderbilt University and the UT Space Institute. He is a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the American Society of Heating Refrigeration and A/C Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and the American Society for Engineering Education.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from California State University, Northridge, and a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology.
Nasab succeeds Dr. Daniel Pack, who became dean of the Baylor University School of Engineering and Computer Science on June 1.
