Eileen Van Aken of Virginia Tech to Lead the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers

Eileen Van Aken, professor and department head in the department of industrial and systems engineering in the College of Engineering at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, was named president-elect for the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE).

The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers is the world’s largest professional society dedicated solely to the support of the industrial engineering profession and individuals involved with improving quality and productivity. Founded in 1948, IISE is an international, nonprofit association that provides knowledge, training, networking opportunities, and recognition to enhance the skills and effectiveness of its members, customers, and the profession.

Dr. Van Aken has been an IISE member for 36 years, after joining the organization as an undergraduate student. She has served in several leadership roles, including on its board as senior vice president, international.

Dr. Van Aken believes that industrial and systems engineers have an exciting role to play in addressing many of the complex challenges and opportunities facing society, including the data and decision analytics revolution, Industry 4.0, autonomous systems, and supply chain resilience. “IISE has to remain relevant in a changing world and serve the needs of a diverse membership,” she said. “I look forward to serving the institute and its members.”

Professor Van Aken holds bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in industrial engineering, all from Virginia Tech.