iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-
Dr. Narendra Datta has been appointed chair of the Division of Engineering Technology at the University of West Alabama.
He has served as interim chair since June 2024 and led the Division through a successful ABET re-accreditation process.
The re-accreditation included submissions for both the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology and the Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Maintenance programs.
During his time as interim chair, the Division acquired new instructional equipment and expanded its partnerships with both industry and academic institutions. Industry collaborations now include companies such as Phifer Inc., Georgia-Pacific, AM/NS Calvert, Continental Aerospace, and the Engineer Research and Development Center.
The Division has also strengthened its academic partnerships with the University of Alabama, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the University of Alabama in Huntsville.
Dr. Datta has introduced several initiatives aimed at enriching student experience and professional readiness.
These include a guest lecture series, improved capstone projects, and cooperative education opportunities with companies such as Mercedes-Benz and Lavender Inc. He has also played a key role in student recruitment by organizing campus visits for high school groups.
Under his leadership, the Division has established the Epsilon Beta chapter of the Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society and has expanded fundraising efforts and international study programs.
Dr. Datta plans to continue focusing on building strong industry relationships, enhancing applied learning opportunities, and ensuring that the Division’s programs meet workforce demands.
His ongoing goals include increasing student access to hands-on projects, up-to-date equipment, scholarships, and career paths in technical fields, while also engaging alumni in support of the Division’s mission.
(Photo courtesy: www.uwa.edu)