Engineering professor chosen for competitive EM-FUEL program

Dr. Alison Polasik, associate professor of engineering, was selected recently for the KEEN (Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network) EM-FUEL Program, a national emerging leader training program for professors and other academics looking to step into broader roles of influence.

EM-FUEL, an acronym for Entrepreneurial Mindset for Future University Engineering Leaders, is a highly competitive program, and Polasik's inclusion is a win for Campbell University's School of Engineering, Founding Dean Dr. Jenna Carpenter said.

"We are thrilled Dr. Polasik has been selected for this program," Carpenter said. "Campbell Engineering's signature innovative and forward-looking approach to engineering education positions our faculty to be leaders of transformational change in higher education."

At Campbell, Polasik teaches courses in materials science and engineering, engineering statistics, thermodynamics, statics, mechanics and Fundamentals of Engineering exam preparation. A metallurgist by training and an engineering educator by vocation, Polasik said she is committed to helping students develop the technical skills, confidence and professional identity needed to become successful engineers.

She said joining the EM-FUEL cohort will help her better understand her strengths and values, while learning alongside engineering educators who are passionate about making a difference.

"My experiences with KEEN through workshops and conferences have always been impactful and valuable," she said. "I look forward to gaining new perspectives, stretching myself as a leader, and developing the skills to turn good ideas into meaningful and lasting change in engineering education."

Polasik is also active in the American Society for Engineering Education; The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society; and ABET, where she serves as an Engineering Accreditation Commission program evaluator and commissioner.

Her teaching has been recognized with awards from both Campbell and the ASEE Materials Division.