Partners in progress, past and future

As we near the close of another year, I’m always eager to look back and recount the progress and advances we’ve made in the previous months. 2022 has been significant for both Virginia Tech and the College of Engineering for numerous reasons. To name a few: We’ve celebrated our engineering programs and 150 years of Hokies through the university’s Sesquicentennial; we saw a record level of engagement and giving from our alumni and friends; and we welcomed Myers-Lawson School of Construction faculty, staff, students, and alumni as part of the school’s full transfer into the college.

Indeed, we’ve had a remarkable year. 

For engineers, progress is measured by forward momentum, by the improvements we employ to make things better – products and processes, systems and structures, even relationships and interactions. I’m confident the progress we’ve made this year not only is indicative of past success, but also foreshadows our future achievements. The college’s revised strategic plan reflects a bold path ahead, one that envisions even better programs, outcomes, opportunities, and cultures for our many stakeholders and partners. 

This fall’s issue of the Virginia Tech Engineer provides a snapshot of trajectories past and present, including innovative research into automotive cybersecurity and a groundbreaking platform for cancer treatment. You’ll find stories of long-time family ties to programs and industry, as well as exciting updates on future projects, including Mitchell Hall, Randolph Hall’s planned replacement. 

Of course, progress would not be possible without the coordination and support of our partners and colleagues, both within Virginia Tech and external to the university. The growing presence of the health sciences in Roanoke and our tech talent initiatives at the Innovation Campus in Alexandria – as well as upcoming opportunities to collaborate with HITT Contracting in Falls Church – are further evidence that we all benefit from shared goals and connections.

And that’s why we continue to celebrate your connection to Virginia Tech Engineering, as your ongoing support enables us to make – and achieve – such bold goals. Your partnership builds the foundation for decades of progress to come.