Dean of the College of Engineering Search
Boise State University, powered by creativity and innovation, stands uniquely positioned in the Northwest as a metropolitan research university of distinction. The university values an inclusive community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, cultural contributions, work history, and perspectives create a rich and rewarding academic experience for our students.
The university has partnered with Academic Career Executive Search Services (ACES) to conduct the search process and aid the search committee in developing a diverse, qualified candidate pool.
Position Overview
The College of Engineering is the largest and top-ranked engineering college in Idaho with more than 3,000 students, 95 faculty and 65 staff. The College of Engineering is a leading intermountain west college known for its exceptional academic programs, innovative research opportunities and commitment to student success.
The College has experienced tremendous growth in the last 25 years through enrollment, research activity, and influence in the community. Research activity of faculty has tripled since 2017 ($6M in FY17 and $18M in FY23). The next Dean has the opportunity to continue this growth, backed by vibrant and strong industry support through a dedicated Industry Advisory Board – committed to advancing the college and partnering with its leadership.
In particular, Boise State joins a premier group of universities defining the future of the semiconductor industry and preparing the leaders and workforce necessary to advance the state, nation and world. An array of new semiconductor initiatives are being implemented in conjunction with the Idaho Workforce Development Council at Boise State with the opportunity for the new dean to expand growth and resources within this new semiconductor ecosystem. Micron, a key partner of Boise State, is constructing a state-of-the-art 600,000 square foot fabrication facility by Micron here in Boise, to complement its Research and Development facility using a massive investment appropriated to advance U.S. semiconductor manufacturing and workforce development through the CHIPS and Science Act.
Boise State University’s commitment to innovation and its leadership in technology and engineering have been internationally recognized. The next Dean must have a growth mentality and future-oriented outlook for the acquisition and allocation of resources to address strategic goals that position the college for continued growth and success, to meet workforce needs and establish a trajectory to be a premier engineering college.
The Dean plays a key role in providing leadership and support to faculty with the aim of continuing to improve the opportunities for external funding within the College of Engineering. New initiatives include a new Ph.D. in Engineering program (started Fall 2024), several fundraising opportunities for remodeling student labs, and the excitement around the launch of the University’s capital campaign, Unbridled, to support student scholarships and endowed chairs.
Reporting directly to the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, the Dean serves as the chief academic and executive officer of the college. Two Associate Deans, the Director of the Micron Student Success Center and six staff directly report to the Dean. The Senior Development Director is shared with Advancement.