As we begin this new academic term, I'd like to welcome back all students pursuing certificates, degrees, and professional development through our department. I commend all of you on making the choice to educate yourselves. Welcome aboard to our new students and a warm welcome back to all returning students.
It's been a busy summer with lots of new developments to report. First off, I'm pleased to announce the hiring of Dr. Bradley Layton as our Energy Technology Program Director and newest tenure-track faculty member. Dr. Layton is a professional engineer formerly of Drexel University (Philadelphia) with stops at The University of Michigan and M.I.T. He brings a diverse background with strengths in both research and applied undergraduate teaching. His interests include renewable energy generation and human-powered vehicles. Welcome aboard Brad! We're excited to have you join us!
Another new face on our staff this year is Krisztian Varsa. Krisztian has a background in planning and design with a specialization in geographical information systems. He is a graduate of Cornell University with a Masters in Regional Planning and an undergraduate degree in Geography from the University of Delaware. Krisztian joins Pete Costello and Creg Diezinger in leading our Computer Aided Design program.
Dianne Burke is returning to teach courses in our Information Technology programs. Dianne is one of the top consultants in the area with specializations in network administration, security, and forensics. Wally Higgins is back leading courses in electronics and computer applications. Wally has a wealth of background from both the electronics and information technology fields.
Troy Savage, Bill Gillespie, and Leif Schneider will be leading online Energy Technology related courses for our Department. An interesting twist on distance learning is that it not only connects students from other regions, but also instructors! Troy will be delivering Power Systems Technology from Pasco, WA; Bill will lead the Project Management course from Spokane, WA; and Leif teaches Alternative Fuels from Portland, OR. It's not exactly Friedman's "Flat World,” but rather a phenomena we'll describe as the "Flat Northwest.”
On behalf of our Department's veteran team of faculty and staff: Steve Rice, Penny Jakes, Rhonda Tabish, Steve Stiff, and Jenny Gorsegner, we welcome you back to school whether you are in Missoula or Miami (yes we have a student here!). Here's to a productive semester!
Tom Gallagher
Department Chairman
