Message From The Dean

Fall 2024 Message

Dear Sac State ECS Alumni, Community, and Industry Stakeholders,

Welcome back to the start of another academic year! As we embark on the Fall 2024 semester, I am filled with excitement and optimism about the future of the College of Engineering and Computer Science. The past year has been one of growth, innovation, and resilience, and I am proud to share our progress and vision with you.

Our college continues to evolve, adapting to the changing landscape of higher education and industry needs. We have successfully integrated a hybrid model of instruction, combining the best of in-person learning with the flexibility of online offerings. This approach has not only enhanced our students’ learning experience but also prepares them for the increasingly digital workplace they will enter upon graduation.

We have welcomed several new talented faculty members to our team, each bringing fresh perspectives and cutting-edge expertise to our programs. Challenges continue in some high-demand fields and the college still relies heavily on the contributions of industry professionals who are able to teach part-time. Collectively, their contributions continue to enrich our curriculum and research initiatives, ensuring that our students receive a high-quality education at the forefront of technological advancement.

Our student organizations have rebounded with vigor, organizing impactful events and projects that showcase the innovative spirit of our Hornet community. The annual “ECS Week” celebration, which coincides with National Engineering Week or E-Week in February, along with the ECS Joint Council Exposition in April have both grown into cornerstone events, celebrating the diversity of our disciplines and the creativity of our students. Additionally, our outreach programs continue to inspire the next generation of engineers, construction managers, and computer scientists, with tours and activities for local middle and high school students.

We remain deeply committed to our role in the greater Sacramento region. Our partnerships with local industries and educational institutions continue to strengthen, creating pathways for underrepresented students to join our programs and thrive in ECS and STEM fields. The demand for our graduates remains high, with many securing positions even before they complete their degrees – a testament to the quality of education and practical skills they acquire here.

To our alumni, your achievements continue to be a source of pride and inspiration for our current students. Your ongoing engagement with the college, whether through mentorship, guest lectures, or support for our programs, is invaluable. We encourage you to stay connected and to share your experiences with the next generation of ECS professionals.

For our community and industry partners, we extend our gratitude for your continued collaboration. Your input helps us shape our curriculum to meet real-world needs, and your support provides invaluable opportunities for our students through internships, projects, and research collaborations.

We invite you to explore all of the ways you can engage with these initiatives and our programs. We also invite you to engage with these initiatives and to attend our upcoming events, including our expanded Internship and Career Fairs as well as our Senior Project Showcases.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. Together, we are shaping the future of technology and engineering education in the Sacramento region, California, and beyond.

Stingers Up!

Dr. Kevan Shafizadeh, P.E., T.E., PTP, PTOE

Dean, College of Engineering and Computer Science