Mark Plichta has been named chair of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Michigan Technological University, Dean of Engineering Robert Warrington has announced.
In 1997 Plichta was appointed associate dean for academic programs in the College of Engineering, where his responsibilities included curricular reform, issues for women and underrepresented groups, program assessment and accreditation, international engineering experiences and distance learning activities.
Since coming to MTU 18 years ago, he has incorporated innovative programs and teaching methods into engineering education. Among his achievements, he helped develop the Enterprise Program, in which engineering and nonengineering students develop and operate a business in partial fulfillment of their degree requirements.
"Mark has done an outstanding job as associate dean of the College, and I think he'll take that same energy and enthusiasm to the materials science and engineering department," Warrington said. "He's indicated he'd like to stay active in educational research, a good model for our department chairs.
"While were sorry to see him step down as associate dean, it will be his department's gain."
Warrington also expressed his appreciation to former chair Calvin White, who will be returning to the department faculty. "I'd like to thank Cal White for his six years of devoted service to the department," Warrington said. "I wish him all the best in his position as a full professor."
Plichta came to Michigan Tech in 1984, joining the faculty of the materials science and engineering department. His research interests have been in the area of microstructural development and stability of metals and ceramics.
Among his awards and honors, Plichta received the Ralph R.Teetor Educational Award from the Society of Automotive Engineers in 1983, and in 1990 was given the State of Michigan Teaching Excellence Award and MTU's Distinguished Teaching Award.
Plichta has bachelor's and master's degrees in metallurgical engineering and a PhD, all from Michigan Tech. Prior to returning for Michigan Tech he was on the faculty in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Utah.
11/15/02--MTN127
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