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College Industrial Advisory Board
The College of Engineering and Computer Science Industrial Advisory Board (IAB) is a distinguished group of industry leaders and experts who share a common goal: advancing the mission and vision of the College by offering informed advice and recommendations. Our board members bring invaluable insights and perspectives to guide the strategic direction, operations, and programmatic initiatives of the College. Through their expertise, the IAB helps position the College and its students for success in the ever-evolving fields of engineering, construction management, and computer science.
Mission of the Board
Our mission is to foster collaboration between industry and academia, creating a synergistic partnership that enhances the educational experience and career readiness of our students. We strive to ensure that our programs and initiatives align with industry needs and trends, empowering our graduates to become highly skilled professionals and leaders in their fields.
What We Do:
- Strategic Guidance: The IAB provides strategic guidance and helps shape the College's vision and ensure its programs remain at the forefront of innovation and excellence.
- Industry Connections: Board members serve as connectors, bridging the gap between academia and industry. Through their vast networks and professional affiliations, they facilitate partnerships, internships, and collaborative opportunities for our students and faculty. These connections create pathways to career opportunities and promote knowledge transfer between academia and the industry.
- Programmatic Support: The IAB supports the College's programmatic initiatives, such as student mentoring, capstone projects, and experiential learning opportunities. We provide feedback and recommendations to enhance these initiatives, making them more aligned with industry best practices and ensuring our graduates possess the skills and competencies demanded by the job market.
- Advancement Goals: As visionaries and supporters of the College's mission, the IAB plays a vital role in advancing our institution's goals. Board members generously contribute their time, resources, and expertise to foster growth, fund scholarships, establish endowments, and support various advancement initiatives that benefit the College and its students.
We invite industry leaders, professionals, and alumni who are passionate about shaping the future of higher education to join the IAB. By becoming a member, you will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the College, its students, and the broader community. Your involvement will contribute to the continuous evolution and success of the IAB as we strive to create innovative educational experiences and develop future industry leaders. To learn more about the IAB, please contact Dean Kevan Shafizadeh at shafizadeh@csus.edu.
We are constantly on the lookout for experienced, enthusiastic, and committed professionals who are eager to contribute to Sac State by serving on the board. If you are interested in becoming a board member, please complete the IAB Member Application form.
Current Industrial Advisory Board Members
Current IAB members. Updated October 8, 2024.
Lance Shaw, '98 (Co-Chair)
President, Stratis Group,
Susan Wheeler (Co-Chair)
Regional Workforce Development Program Manager (Ret.), Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD)
Orin Bennett, '71
President (Ret.), Bennett Engineering
Ron Brown, '86
President, Brown Construction
Joseph Burnett, '04
PMO/ITP Lead, Blue Origin
James Cole
General Manager, Xeon Platform Solutions, Data Center and Artificial Intelligence Group, Intel Corporation
Heather Giovanni, '00
VP Software Engineering, HPE
Lynda Grindstaff, '95
Cybersecurity Expert, Technology Engineering Executive, Strategic Advisor, McAfee
Adam Holguin, '10
Business Development Director, McCarthy Building Companies
Matt Nichols
Chief Innovation Officer, Quick Quack Car Wash
Louay Owaidat
President, Odin Construction
Kevan Shafizadeh
Dean, College of Engineering & Computer Science
Thomas Whitcher
ECS Director of Development