Wael Mokhtar of Bowling Green State University

BGSU's College of Engineering & Innovation is transforming engineering education to meet the evolving needs of students, industry, and society.  Building on a strong foundation in technology education, the College has expanded its engineering programs, strengthened industry partnerships, and invested in facilities that support hands on learning, innovation, and applied research. 

CEI brings together engineering, aviation, the built environment, and technology with recent growth in robotics engineering, mechanical and manufacturing engineering, and electronics and computer engineering.  Experiential learning is central to the college's approach, with students gaining professional experience through hands-on projects, laboratories, and paid cooperative education.  In 2025, 439 students completed more than 217,000 hours of co-op experience, earning $4.1 million. 

Industry engagement is embedded throughout the college's educational and innovation ecosystem.  Industry partners contribute through cooperative education, mentoring, advisory boards, curriculum development, and applied research, ensuring that academic programs remain connected to evolving workforce and technology needs. 

A key catalyst for this growth is the 42,000 square foot Engineering and Innovation Center, which provides modern laboratories, flexible learning spaces, and opportunities for students, faculty, industry, and community partners to collaborate.  The Center is designed not simply as a new facility, but as a hub  where education, technology, innovation, and industry intersection to address real-world challenges and prepare the next generation of engineers and innovators.       

Biography:

Dr. Wael Mokhtar has dedicated over two decades to higher education, measuring his success through the achievements of his students, who evolve from eager freshmen to accomplished professionals in both academia and industry.  Holding a doctorate in aerospace engineering from Old Dominion University, his research covers computational fluid dynamics, wind tunnel testing, vehicle aerodynamics, biomedical engineering, and innovative teaching methods. 

Currently serving as the Dean of the College of Engineering and Innovation, Dr. Mokhtar combines academic leadership with a strong history of applied research.  His extensive partnerships with industry bridge the gap between theory and practice, driving real-world solutions and enhancing the educational experience.    

Email:

Address:248 Engineering & Innovation Center, , Bowling Green, Ohio, United States, 43403