The American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) named Dr. Michael Johnson a fellow in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field. This prestigious honor comes on the heels of ASEE presenting Johnson with the National Engineering Teaching Award and the Frederick J. Berger Award in 2020.
During his 18 years at Texas A&M University, Johnson has served in many roles on the departmental, college and university levels, earning accolades every step of the way. He is currently the university’s associate provost for academic enhancement and interim vice provost for academic affairs, and a professor in the Department of Engineering Technology and Industrial Distribution.
Johnson’s interest in engineering developed as a child, influenced by his father’s work at General Motors. He earned degrees in mechanical engineering from Michigan State University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Johnson embarked on his career as a product development engineer at 3M’s Corporate Research Laboratory in Minnesota yet soon found himself called to academia.
He felt the pull to influence engineering technology education based on the disconnect he experienced between his education and the reality of being a practicing engineer.
“I felt there should be more overlap with my education, because engineering is practical, it’s applied,” Johnson explained.
In 2007, Johnson set out to give students the opportunity to learn the hands-on skills needed to solve tangible challenges, finding his perfect home in Texas A&M’s Department of Engineering Technology and Industrial Distribution.
He quickly advanced the department’s focus on applied engineering. Almost two decades later, he has taught thousands of Aggies real-world applications of their engineering knowledge.
Johnson exemplifies ASEE’s goal of contributing to engineering technology education as he drives the development of forward-thinking curriculum in the department, the College of Engineering, his many professional societies and the engineering education community at large.
“I view engineering education as the core of my professional efforts,” said Johnson. “It is truly an honor to be recognized by my peers.”