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College of Engineering | November 25, 2024

Dr. Yirong Lin Appointed Interim Chair of UTEP’s Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering

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Dr. Yirong Lin Appointed Interim Chair of UTEP’s Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering

 

The College of Engineering is pleased to announce that Yirong Lin, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, has been appointed as the Interim Department Chair, effective November 8. Dr. Lin, who has been with UTEP’s Mechanical Engineering department since the summer of 2011 and currently serves as the Associate Department Chair, will step into this leadership role to continue advancing the department’s academic and research programs.

Dr. Lin’s research focuses on the development and application of advanced multifunctional material systems. His research includes critical areas such as micromechanics modeling, materials synthesis, structural characterization, and device evaluation, as well as energy harvesting and storage technologies. His contributions have significantly enhanced the department’s focus on interdisciplinary approaches to aerospace and mechanical engineering.

“We are excited to have Dr. Lin lead the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering as Interim Chair,” said Kenith Meissner, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Engineering. “His dedication to academic excellence and commitment to research innovation make him an ideal fit to build on the foundation currently established. I am confident that Dr. Lin’s leadership will continue to elevate the department’s excellence in teaching, research, and innovation.”

Dr. Lin succeeds Jack Chessa, Ph.D., who stepped down from the Chair position but will remain an integral part of the department as a professor. Since 2018, Dr. Chessa’s leadership has been instrumental in the department’s growth, especially through his efforts to introduce new academic programs and to encourage research. His contributions include the establishment of the Bachelor of Science in Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering in Fall 2022 and the Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering in Fall 2024, both designed to position UTEP as a leader in aerospace education.

“It is my utmost honor to step into the role of Interim Chair for the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering. This department is my extended family. I am excited to work alongside our dedicated faculty, staff, and students to build on the remarkable progress achieved under Dr. Chessa’s leadership”, added Dr. Lin. “Together, we will continue to advance academic excellence, foster impactful research, and prepare our students for successful careers in engineering and beyond.”

"We thank Dr. Chessa for his outstanding dedication and leadership as Chair since 2018," added Kenith Meissner. "His contributions have laid a solid foundation for the future, and we look forward to Dr. Lin’s leadership as he builds on this progress."

With Dr. Lin’s appointment as Interim Chair, the Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering is set to continue its mission of academic excellence, student success, and impactful research in support of the university’s goals.

For more information about UTEP’s Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering and its programs, visit www.utep.edu/engineering/mechanical





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