Kettering Alumna Named CEO of SAE International

SAE International recently named Dr. Jacqueline El-Sayed ’86 as its new Chief Executive Officer. In her role that begins January 6, 2025, Dr. El-Sayed will lead SAE International and its affiliate organizations, including the Performance Review Institute and SAE ITC, as they continue to advance mobility knowledge and solutions for the benefit of humanity.

Dr. El-Sayed’s connection to SAE is personal and professional. “It is incredibly exciting to return to the mobility community which launched my career,” she said. “I am deeply honored to have been selected as CEO and am looking forward to listening, learning, and working together to reach our full potential.”

A graduate of General Motors Institute, now Kettering University, Dr. El-Sayed began her journey as a Co-op student, working as a truck engineer at GM while earning her degree in mechanical engineering. This foundational experience in Kettering’s hallmark co-op program taught her to approach challenges with focus and purpose — qualities that have defined her decades-long career.

Dr. El-Sayed went on to become a professor of mechanical engineering at Kettering University, where she spent 18 years educating and inspiring future engineers. For part of that time, she also served as Associate Provost and Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Her leadership career extended well beyond Kettering. As CEO of the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE), she led the organization through significant growth and alignment. She also has a history of public service, serving as chair of Michigan’s Truck Safety Commission and working on advisory committees that have resulted in bipartisan safety legislation.

Dr. El-Sayed is recognized nationally as a trailblazer in engineering and education. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. El-Sayed to the SAE International Organization,” said Carla Bailo, Board President of SAE International. “Her background in engineering education and mobility technology will drive SAE to better deliver on our mission for our customers. Her past success as CEO demonstrates her drive to pursue excellence at all levels.”