Want to be a Professor in Engineering?

Purdue Engineering is aiming for maximum impact outcomes in our mission areas by 2030, one of them being the development of the largest, best-prepared, and most diverse engineering talent pool in the nation. Casting our view even beyond our campus, Trailblazers in Engineering (TBE) is an initiative intended to increase the number and success of engineering faculty in the US, who, in turn, will blaze new trails with new discoveries, innovations, and social impact and serve as role models for the next generation of engineers. Late-stage PhDs and post-docs would benefit the most from this workshop.

The goal of the TBE program at Purdue Engineering is to prepare future trailblazing faculty in engineering. TBE Fellows are selected not only for their outstanding scholarly achievements but also for their potential impact in broadening participation in engineering. These exceptional individuals will attend an in-person four-day workshop that will provide opportunities for scientific interactions, career-oriented discussions, and networking.

Since 2020: 199 TBE fellows total have participated in the program and are changing the landscape of engineering academia. 65 hold faculty positions, 36 are in industry, 20 are finishing their PhDs, and 74 are postdoctoral fellows at prestigious institutions. Unable to locate information for three fellows.

Fellow Comments

"One of the most informative workshops I have ever attended."
"This workshop rekindled my lost motivation and passion for becoming a professor."
"The best thing about the workshop is the diverse cohort that you identified and gathered."
"The TBE workshop was a profound experience, and I was so honored to be a part of it."
"Remarkable experience I will never forget."
"Incredibly inspiring and beneficial."

 

WORKSHOP DATES
JULY 27-30, 2026

PhD students/postdocs in engineering or related disciplines at US research universities who — are expected to complete their PhD/postdoctoral appointments at US universities in 2026 or 2027 are eligible to apply. This opportunity is open to all students, regardless of race or national origin, whose experiences have shaped their ability to operate in a diverse environment or who demonstrate a commitment to increasing opportunities for members of underserved groups, breaking down stereotypes, and enabling others to better understand and support individuals of different races and national origins. Up to 25 talented TBE fellows will be selected.

  • Network with leading trailblazing faculty in engineering, thought leaders, program managers at key federal funding agencies, Purdue Engineering school heads, and scientists who will present keynote lectures throughout the program.
  • Participate in panel discussions.
    • Why choose an academic career?
    • Key components of a strong application package
    • Preparing to interview, negotiating your best salary and start up package
    • Securing early career research funding
  • Attend a session for early career teaching and success strategies presented by recognized experts in faculty development.
  • Design and participate in a poster session to pitch your research or teaching plans and gain feedback from faculty would-be employers.
  • Meet and Collaborate and hear from program managers from the National Science Foundation, Office of Naval Research and Air Force Office of Scientific Research.
  • Learn strategies for creating optimal mental health and well-being while balancing the challenges of academic life.
  • Proudly list TBE Fellow in your credentials.

All lodging and meals will be provided during the workshop schedule of July 27-30, with an expected arrival time of 3:00 PM EDT on the 27th and departure anytime on Friday, July 31. Additional details will be provided.

Purdue will cover travel expenses including flight, Uber, airport shuttles, mileage and/or parking up to $800.

  • February 2, 2026: Application cycle opens
  • May 1, 2026: Final acceptance date for all applications, cover letters, CVs, research/education statements and recommendation letters.
  • May 21, 2026: Fellows selected and notified
  • July 27 - July 30, 2026: Workshop Dates

Purdue's beautiful campus in West Lafayette, Indiana.

Required application materials include the following items:

  • Cover letter - Summarize why applicants are interested in the program and how it would benefit them. They should describe their experiences in broadening participation in engineering and contributing to the success of students of all backgrounds. These could include, but are not limited to, activities in research, teaching, and/or engagement (service, mentoring, community activities).
  • Research and Education Plan - What does a future faculty trailblazer in engineering look like? (maximum 3 pages)
  • Curriculum Vitae - Include list of publications and other scholarly accomplishments
  • Letter of Recommendation - Obtain a letter of recommendation from a faculty member or a supervisor that addresses the potential of the applicant to be a future trailblazing faculty member in engineering that includes:
    • Research accomplishments
    • Teaching and/or mentoring effectiveness
    • Applicant's track record and dedication to service
    • Motivation, work ethic, sense of responsibility
    • How the applicant compares among peers
    • Any other comments

Apply at InfoReady on the Purdue University Internal Competitions and Limited Submissions page by clicking on "Trailblazers in Engineering". You may search by the due date of May 1, 2026 to access it more readily.

Create an account by clicking on "Register". Here you will input your name and email address and click on "Create Account". You will be asked to confirm your account via an email notification sent to the email address entered. Use this email address and established password to access the site. Please note that email domains affiliated with institutions, e.g., edu, are required.

If you have questions about the application process, please contact Kathy Heath, heathk@purdue.edu.

APPLICATION DEADLINE, INCLUDING REFERENCE LETTERS
FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2026

Apply Here