NSF Appoints New Head of the Division of Engineering Education and Centers with Focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has selected Dr. José Luis Zayas-Castro of the University of South Florida (USF) to serve as director for the Division of Engineering Education and Centers (EEC). The goal of the EEC is to invest in the nation’s engineers and support innovative technologies through investing in center-based research, research in education and inclusion, and research opportunities for students and teachers.

Dr. Zayas-Castro has spent nearly two decades at USF. During his tenure he has served as department chair and as associate dean for research in the College of Engineering. He also co-directed the diversity in engineering program at the University of Missouri-Columbia. His engineering background and interests are in manufacturing systems, healthcare systems engineering, engineering entrepreneurship, and economic and cost systems.

“Dr. José Zayas-Castro is an inspiring leader whose career journey and research passion have prepared him well to address the engineering research challenges faced by the Nation,” said Linda Blevins, acting NSF assistant director for engineering. “His commitment and deep experience in broadening participation will help NSF reach the ‘missing millions’ by fostering pathways into engineering. I couldn’t be more thrilled to have him join our leadership team at NSF.”

Dr. Zayas-Castro has been recognized for mentoring, advising, and diversity initiatives, which align with ASME’s own diversity, equity, and inclusion priorities. To learn more about how ASME strives to foster diversity, ensure equitable access and inclusive practices, raise awareness of unconscious bias, and promote cultural competence both within ASME and in the engineering field at large, read the latest position statement on “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the STEM Workforce.”