Dean, School of Engineering and Technology

the next Dean of the School of Engineering & Technology (SET). As one of the institution's most dynamic and rapidly growing schools, SET plays a critical role in advancing UW Tacoma's mission as an urban-serving university dedicated to expanding access, fostering innovation, and strengthening the economic and social vitality of the South Puget Sound region. Deeply integrated with the City of Tacoma, the university's campus is woven into the downtown landscape, fostering strong partnerships with industry, government, community organizations, and civic leaders. This close connection to the city creates distinctive opportunities for experiential learning, applied research, community engagement, and workforce development, enabling SET to serve as a catalyst for innovation and regional impact. The next dean will have a unique opportunity to build upon a strong foundation of growth, scholarship, and community partnership while shaping the future of engineering and technology education at a pivotal moment of transformation. SET has evolved significantly since its origins as a pioneering effort to expand access to computing and technology education across Washington State. Today, the school offers a comprehensive portfolio of undergraduate and master's programs spanning computer science, mechanical and civil engineering, electrical and computer engineering, information technology, cybersecurity, and related disciplines. As home to UW Tacoma's only PhD program, SET occupies a distinctive position within the campus and serves as a critical driver of research, workforce development, and regional innovation. SET is also the only engineering school in Washington State that is a partner institution in the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (KEEN), reflecting the school's commitment to preparing engineers who combine technical excellence with innovation, leadership, and an entrepreneurial mindset. Through strong partnerships with industry, government, community organizations, and educational institutions, the school provides students with practical, applied learning experiences while addressing complex challenges in areas such as artificial intelligence, sustainable infrastructure, intelligent transportation, and equitable computing. The next dean will be charged with guiding SET through its next phase of organizational maturity and strategic growth. Building on a decade of remarkable expansion, the dean will work closely with faculty and staff to strengthen organizational structures, support effective governance, and ensure the resources and systems necessary are in place to sustain excellence and impact. At the same time, the dean will articulate a compelling academic vision that positions SET at the forefront of emerging technologies and workforce needs, advancing innovative degree programs, expanding enrollment, and thoughtfully integrating artificial intelligence and other rapidly evolving fields throughout the curriculum. The dean will also foster a diverse and inclusive academic community that supports the success of students, faculty, and staff and reflects UW Tacoma's commitment to access and opportunity. The dean will also serve as a highly visible ambassador, strengthening relationships across the University of Washington system while expanding partnerships with industry, government, community organizations, alumni, and philanthropic supporters. Through these efforts, the dean will help increase experiential learning opportunities, advance economic development throughout the South Puget Sound region, elevate the visibility of SET's accomplishments, and secure the resources necessary to support future growth. The ideal candidate will be an accomplished academic leader who combines strategic vision with operational excellence, values collaboration and shared governance, and demonstrates a deep commitment to student success, innovation, and community engagement. The successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to leadership in a diverse and inclusive academic community. The successful candidate should have an earned doctorate in a SET field or related discipline from a professionally accredited institution and academic credentials commensurate with appointment at the rank of tenured full professor within the school. This is an extraordinary opportunity to lead a thriving school with a clear trajectory of growth and impact while helping position UW Tacoma as a national model for accessible, workforce-relevant, and community-connected engineering and technology education. Applications, inquiries, and nominations are welcome. WittKieffer is assisting UW Tacoma in this search. For fullest consideration, candidate materials should be received by January 4, 2027. You may perform any of these activities by contacting Jessica Harrington, Cathryn Davis, or Ethan Robles at UW-TacomaSETDean@wittkieffer.com or preferably through WittKieffer's candidate portal . The base salary range for this position will be $230,000 - $260,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination. Equal Opportunity The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81 . Benefits Information The University is committed to providing excellent benefits to our faculty. For a summary of available benefits, please see UWHR benefits information . Privacy Notice Your application materials may be used for employment consideration and shared in accordance with UW's Privacy Policy. Disability Services The University of Washington is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu .