EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology welcomes Paul Ajegba, director of the Michigan Department of Transportation, in its latest installment of TechTalk at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 16 in Sill Hall. EMU TechTalk offers an opportunity to hear from established and up-and-coming leaders in engineering and technology.

Since launching EMU TechTalk, students and faculty have heard from industry leaders, including Paul Perrone, Perrone Robotics' founder, CEO, and autonomous vehicle pioneer, and Reuben Sarkar, president and CEO of American Center for Mobility. Event participants also can explore internships, careers, and research opportunities at the College. 

“This initiative spotlights industry and community leaders who are making a difference in their chosen fields,” said Mohamad Qatu, dean of GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology. “The College is thrilled to partner with these leaders who inspire our students to achieve their future career goals.” 

Ajegba will share his experience regarding the importance of equity and inclusion in infrastructure investments. His talk will showcase how MDOT builds on success through partnerships, innovations, and mentorships, demonstrating how engaging and recruiting talented engineers is a high priority for the department now and into the future.

To reserve a spot, visit the Paul Ajegba RSVP link. Please identify if you will attend in person or via Zoom. Please visit the website for more information about the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology's Tech Talk series.

More about the speaker:

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer appointed Ajegba as director of the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) on  Jan. 1, 2019. Under his leadership, MDOT has championed electric and autonomous vehicle innovations, work zone safety initiatives, and construction delivery efficiencies such as the bridge bundling program.  He has guided the department’s focus on diversity and inclusion efforts by establishing the chief culture, equity, and inclusion officer position within his leadership team. Ajegba oversaw the planning, design, and building of several major projects, where one was nominated for America’s Transportation Award and landed among the top 12 national finalists. He also established MDOT’s Historical  Black Colleges and Universities Transportation Diversity Recruitment Program. He is a licensed professional engineer in the State of Michigan. He holds a bachelor of science in civil engineering from Prairie View A&M University and a master’s degree in construction engineering from the University of Michigan. 

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 16,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral, and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences, and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors, and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.