“Not only has Dr. Baqersad's work deeply impacted Mechanical Engineering but has made a profound impact on students’ academic and professional development.”
FLINT, MI – Kettering University announces that Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering Dr. Javad Baqersad, a distinguished faculty member renowned for his pioneering contributions to the engineering field, has been honored with the esteemed Ralph Teetor Educational Award during the 2024 SAE World Congress in Detroit.
“Dr. Baqersad’s achievement is a testament to his exemplary dedication to educational excellence and innovative research contributions,” said Dr. James Zhang, Senior Vice President and Provost at Kettering University. “Not only has his work deeply impacted Mechanical Engineering but has made a profound impact on students’ academic and professional development.”
Established in 1953, the Ralph Teetor Educational Award is named in honor of Ralph R. Teetor, the visionary past president of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). The award celebrates academic professionals who significantly contribute to the enrichment of students in mobility and automotive engineering. Recipients are recognized for cultivating an engaging academic atmosphere that inspires students to innovate their way into future careers.
Last year, Baqersad was awarded multiple grants by the National Science Foundation (NSF). One of these established the EMERGE Program (Enabling Meaningful External Research Growth in Emergent Technologies) as part of an EPIIC Grant. This project, in which Baqersad is a principal investigator, aims to strengthen partnerships with local industry to build the capacity to conduct high-impact, industry-relevant research.
He also received a Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) grant of $577,750 to acquire a 3D scanning laser Doppler vibrometer (3DSLDV), which enhances research in non-destructive inspection, energy, lithium-ion battery monitoring, additive manufacturing and material science.
In recognition of his dedication to education, Baqersad was honored with the Outstanding Teaching Award by Kettering University in December.
Kettering University has a storied history of its faculty members being honored with the Ralph Teetor Award, reflecting the institution's commitment to excellence in engineering and technology education. Previous Kettering University recipients include:
- 2020 Dr. Jennifer Bastiaan *
- 2019 Dr. Diane Peters *
- 2008 Dr. Janet Brelin-Fornari
- 2002 Dr. Patrick Atkinson *
- 2002 Dr. Craig Hoff *
- 1999 Dr. Etim Ubong
- 1998 Dr. Karim Nasr *
- 1996 Dr. Timothy M. Cameron
- 1994 Dr. Colin Jordan
- 1994 Dr. Massoud Tavakoli *
- 1994 Dr. Greg Davis *
- 1992 Dr. Behrouz Chehroudi
- 1990 Dr. Paul Zang
- 1988 Dr. Richard D. Tonda
- 1987 Dr. Mark G. Thompson *
- 1987 Dr. Mohammad Torfeh *
- 1979 Dr. James E.A. John
* Current professor at Kettering
"Kettering University proudly congratulates Dr. Javad Baqersad on receiving this award, which recognizes his dedication to engineering education and excellence,” stated University President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “With this honor, the Society of Automotive Engineers is not only highlighting Dr. Baqersad's many contributions to advancing the field but also recognizing his commitment to excellence and to inspiring tomorrow's innovators and leaders."