Hands overlapping in the middle of a circle of people

About the SECS

Dean Louay M. Chamra posing for a photo

Message from the Dean

At the School of Engineering and Computer Science, we are dedicated to excellence and innovation in every aspect of our work—teaching, research and service to our profession, community and society at large. We strive to provide not only the best educational experience but also a highly supportive and stimulating atmosphere where all voices are valued. Our goal is to create an enriching educational environment where every student feels a strong sense of belonging.

Our dedicated faculty deliver high-quality education, enriched by cutting-edge research funded by both federal agencies and industry partners. This ensures that our students are equipped with the practical skills necessary to thrive in their careers. Additionally, our school actively participates in outreach and economic development initiatives, fostering growth and innovation within our community.

For prospective undergraduate students, I encourage you to reach out to our SECS Advising Office at (248) 370-2201. If you are interested in pursuing a Master’s degree, please contact the appropriate department office. Prospective Ph.D. candidates can connect with the Associate Dean's Office at (248) 370-2233.

Thank you for your interest in the School of Engineering and Computer Science. We look forward to supporting you on your journey and helping you achieve your academic and professional aspirations. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if there is any way we can assist you further.

Warm regards,
Louay M. Chamra, Ph.D., Dean
School of Engineering and Computer Science
(248) 370-2217
[email protected]

Advisory Board

The Advisory Board for the School of Engineering and Computer Science is composed of leaders in industry. They assist the school in developing educational and research programs to meet the rapidly expanding requirements in the technical world. The board is available as a body or individually for consultation on such matters as curriculum, research, facilities, equipment requirements, special subjects and long-range planning.

Board members

Chair of Advisory Board: Michael Bolon, Retired Senior Vice President, General Dynamics Land Systems, Engineering Design and Land Development

Vice Chair of Advisory Board: Bob Lee, Retired Vice President and Head of Engine Powertrain and Electrified Propulsion Systems Engineering, FCA (aka Stellantis)

Board Members:

Gahl, Berkooz, Ph.D., Head of Digital AI, North America Automotive, Capgemini Invent
Glenn Denomme, Retired Consultant, Stellantis
Paul Fleck, Founder and CEO, Dataspeed
Cedric Flowers, Vice President, DTE Gas
Alecia Gabriel, Ph.D., Co-Founder, Motor City STEAM Foundation & The Lab Drawer
Grant R. Gerhart, Ph.D., Retired Senior Research Scientist, TARDEC
Maurcio Herndandez-Distancia, Ph.D., Head of High-Performance Computers #SWX - Global Engineering Director, Stellantis
Fred Killeen, Retired Chief Technology Officer, General Motors LLC, Information Technology
Ron A. May, Retired Executive Vice President, DTE Energy
Jason Ryska, Director, Global Manufacturing Development, Ford Motor Company
Robert Richard, Senior Vice President, Major Enterprise Projects, DTE Energy, Energy Distribution
George Saikalis, Ph.D., Senior Vice President and General Manager, Research and Development, Hitachi America, Ltd.
Kristen Siemen, Vice President of Sustainable Workspaces and Chief Sustainability Officer, General Motors Corporation
Dave Schubring, Global Information Technology Director, SiteRx
Diana Wagner, SWX Software Vehicle Program Management, Stellantis

Ex-Officio members

Louay Chamra, Ph.D., Dean, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Oakland University
Qian (Beth) Zou, Ph.D., Associate Dean, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Oakland University
Daniel Aloi, Ph.D., Director of Research, School of Engineering & Computer Science, Oakland University
Shailesh Lal, Ph.D., Chair, Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Oakland University
Guangzhi (Mark) Qu, Ph.D., Interim Chair, Computer Science & Engineering, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Oakland University
Osamah Rawashdeh, Ph.D., Chair, Electrical and Computer Engineering, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Oakland University
Vijitashwa Pandey, Ph.D., Chair, Industrial & Systems Engineering, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Oakland University
Xia Wang, Ph.D., Interim Chair, Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Oakland University
Sarah Brown, Sr. Director of Philanthropy, School of Engineering & Computer Science, Oakland University
Anthony Gallina, Director of Corporate Relations, School of Engineering & Computer Science, Oakland University
Chris Kobus, Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering Professor and Director of SECS Outreach, School of Engineering and Computer Science, Oakland University
Kelli Foskic, Director of Career and Life Design, School of Engineering & Computer Science, Oakland University

Mission Statement

The mission of the School of Engineering and Computer Science is threefold:

To provide high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs of instruction in engineering and computer science to prepare graduates for careers in the coming decades,
To advance knowledge through basic and applied research in relevant branches of engineering and computer science, and
To provide service to both the engineering profession and public of the State of Michigan.

In carrying out its mission the school will address the needs of the automotive and related industries in southeast Michigan for the:

Education of engineers and computer scientists,
Development of research programs and
Fulfillment of the demands for professional service.

Situated near a hub of automotive manufacturing companies in southeastern Michigan, SECS boasts a strong focus on applied research. Our faculty’s research interests encompass a wide range of areas, with an emphasis on product design, development and manufacturing. This work supports both large corporations and small businesses, driving innovation and efficiency in the industry.

The Engineering Center

Opened in August 2014, the Engineering Center is the home for the School of Engineering and Computer Science. This impressive 127,000-square-foot facility features state-of-the-art classrooms and research spaces, making it the heart of our engineering and computer science community.

Naming Opportunities

We invite individuals, couples, families, associates, friends, organizations, foundations and businesses to consider participating in this meaningful initiative. Your support will not only honor your connection to SECS but also contribute to the ongoing success and development of our academic programs. Contributions made through our unique naming opportunities will directly support activities and events that benefit students, faculty and staff. Additionally, these donations will help enhance the functionality and maintenance of the Engineering Center.

For more information about naming the Engineering Center, please contact Sarah Brown, Director of Philanthropy.

Together, we can continue to build a bright future for the School of Engineering and Computer Science and foster innovation in our community. Thank you for your support!

School of Engineering and Computer Science

Engineering Center, Room 301
115 Library Drive
Rochester , MI 48309-447
(location map)
Dean's Office (248) 370-2217
Academic Advising (248) 370-2201