IBM Corporation
Senior Project Executive
Howard University
Visiting Professor, College of Engineering
At ABET:
- Member, Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission (2007-12)
- Joined ABET as a volunteer: 1997
Why did you volunteer for ABET?
I believe in the importance of continuing education and have personally continued my graduate education while employed. I wanted to continue staying involved with academe. Also, as an industry professional, I work for a company that employs graduates of these accredited programs, so I have a vested interest in ensuring their quality.
In what ways do you think your participation has an impact
on your profession?
The engineering technology industry, more than any other, creates the tools and know-how that literally changes how the world works. It all starts with education. I believe I have played a small role in nurturing the next generation of engineering technologists.
How does your volunteer work help students?
It ensures the value in the accreditation "seal of approval" for their program; it provides an understanding of industrial work, jobs, and career paths; and it ensures involvement of people like me as future employers in shaping these programs.
What are some of the qualifications that make a good ABET volunteer?
Teamwork, good communications, positive attitude, and high energy.
In what ways has your volunteer work for ABET been beneficial
to you, personally and/or professionally?
It has provided me an opportunity to work with volunteers – people who are doing this work because they WANT to do it, who feel passion and see value in the time they devote to the work. It has helped my employer fulfill their commitment to the community, to the profession, and to advancement in the educational system.