ENE Research Seminar: Q&A Panel on Pathways to Becoming an Engineering Educator

Event Date: October 16, 2025
Speaker: 6-person panel
Speaker Affiliation: Purdue University
Type: Research Seminar
Time: 3:30-4:20 p.m.
Location: WANG 3520
Open To: Graduate and undergraduate students, staff, and faculty with an interest in educating engineers
Priority: No
School or Program: Engineering Education
College Calendar: Show
Curious about what it takes to become an engineering educator? Join us for this open Q&A panel featuring faculty, staff, and students from Purdue ENE. Hear candid stories from across career stages and gain insights into the many ways a PhD can shape your future. Whether you’re considering graduate study or simply exploring your next step, this conversation offers inspiration, advice, and connection within the ENE community.

 

For the high-flex option, register in advance. You will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Title:
Q&A Panel: Pathways to Becoming an Engineering Educator

Panelists:

  • Matthew Ohland, Professor and Associate Head, School of Engineering Education
  • Jennifer DeBoer, Associate Professor, School of Engineering Education
  • Rachel Higbee, NSF Graduate Research Fellow, School of Engineering Education
  • Kyler Blowers, Assistant Professor of Practice, School of Engineering Education
  • Christine McDonnell, Graduate Student, School of Engineering Education
  • Tina Putz, Grad Program Manager, School of Engineering Education

Abstract
The decision to pursue a graduate degree is a pivotal one with a transformative influence on our future lives and careers. The journey towards a PhD has some common elements but much is also unique to each of us. This panel will bring together current students, faculty, and staff to share their lived experiences, joys, and challenges that has enhanced their Purdue experience and empowered them to thrive professionally and personally. The panel discussion will include academic, cultural, and practical aspects of graduate school such as research paths, time management, networking, and mentoring. All members of the School of Engineering Education (ENE) strive for an inclusive, socially connected, and scholarly engineering education.

Our school is a diverse, vibrant community with 16 faculty, 3 professors of practice, 3 visiting assistant professors, and 64 graduate students engaged in groundbreaking research on topics such as: belonging, equity & fairness in policy and assessment empathy and conscientious design ethics, sustainability, and global engineering experiential learning & applications of AI and AR workforce and teacher professional development

There will be plenty of time for the attendees to ask their questions. Join us for a collaborative conversation that highlights many pathways to becoming an engineering educator and everyday practices of graduate scholars.