Why did you become an engineer?

I became an engineer because I enjoyed problem solving and math.

Why did you choose to go into academia?

I wanted to be instrumental in tackling novel and practical problems and I feel I have an interesting perspective to bring to the classroom.  

What do you like best (in reference to the above question)?

Learning about and implementing new technology.

Explain your area of research (in layman’s terms).

My research focuses on the development mathematical models to describe the electromechanical behavior of smart piezoelectric materials; and implementation of these smart materials into hybrid power systems.  Hybrid power generation, i.e. the use of two or more different power supply methods can, if done effectively, improve the lifetime (sustainability) and efficiency of single-source power supply systems. 

Who was your favorite teacher/professor and why?

My Thermodynamics professor, independent study, and academic advisor at UofM.  They were demanding and challenging.  At the time I thought they were ridiculously difficult, but found that I learned the most from their expectation of excellence. My Thermal Science professor at Stanford because he explained things from first principals and demonstrated how fundamental first and second laws could be derived using common sense.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

My mother.

What was your favorite class (and why)?

Thermodynamics and Solid Mechanics were my favorite classes because they demonstrated how solving engineering problems is multi-faceted and diverse; and that using multiple texts and resources is the best way to learn about a subject.

What do you like to do to relax?   What are your hobbies?

Read.

Favorite book?

Song of Solomon

Favorite song?

A Beethoven piano concerto