Dean, College of Engineering

Scott A. Ashford brings experience in both higher education and industry to this leadership position. After graduating from Oregon State with a degree in civil engineering, he worked in private industry for seven years — mostly with CH2M HILL — and then earned his Ph.D. from the University of California at Berkeley. He started his academic career at the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand and subsequently moved to the University of California, San Diego, earning the rank of Professor. In 2007, he became head of the School of Civil and Construction Engineering at Oregon State, where he focused on building a graduate program that enhances undergraduate education. He had previously served as the college’s interim dean.

Ashford’s research focuses on enhancing public safety and reducing potential economic loss worldwide from earthquake and coastal hazards through cross-disciplinary research. His latest efforts are targeted at improving the resilience of the lifeline systems in the Pacific Northwest to better withstand attack from the Cascadia Subduction Zone.

In his role as dean, Ashford oversees the college’s four schools and one department, with 250 faculty and staff, serving more than 6,700 students. He will continue to build on the excellent teaching, research and industry collaborations for which the college has long been recognized.

The College of Engineering

The College of Engineering at Oregon State University delivers impactful learning experiences that inspire solutions to complex global problems. We leverage mutually beneficial partnerships with industry, academic institutions, government, and other entities to foster collaboration; encourage synergies in teaching, research, and innovation; and strengthen Oregon’s future by commercializing faculty and student inventions.

Founded in 1889, the College of Engineering has awarded more than 34,000 degrees, resulting in sustained contributions to society and science. For example, achievements include inventing the first artificial heart valve, the computer mouse, and the concept of email.

Today, the College of Engineering is among the nation’s largest and most productive engineering programs. Since 1999, the college has more than tripled its research expenditures to $37.2 million by emphasizing highly collaborative research that solves global problems, spins out new companies, and produces opportunity for students through hands-on learning. With the support of 14,000 donors, the college has surpassed its $200 million goal in The Campaign for OSU.

Visit our website for more information regarding the College of Engineering.