Professor James E. Smay is a valued member of the Oklahoma State University community, where he leads the Materials Science and Engineering program within the Chemical Engineering department. His own academic journey began right there at OSU, earning his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in 1996. He then pursued advanced studies, completing his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Illinois in 2002, building a strong foundation in the field. His research delves into compelling areas, including Materials Science, innovative Direct Write Manufacturing techniques, the intricate processes of Colloidal Processing, and understanding the Rheology of Complex Fluids. This work is vital for pushing the boundaries of how we understand and manipulate materials, contributing to significant advancements in engineering applications. He also holds a deep commitment to fostering STEM Education within Native American Communities. In the classroom, Professor Smay is known for his engaging approach and genuine dedication to helping students succeed. He teaches a range of core chemical engineering courses, from Rate Operations and Thermodynamics to hands-on Unit Operations Labs and Materials Science. His teaching aims to provide students with a robust understanding of fundamental principles, preparing them well for their future professional paths. Beyond teaching and fundamental research, Professor Smay actively engages in collaborative projects that bridge the gap between academic discovery and real-world industry needs. His exploration of Direct Write Manufacturing, for instance, is opening doors for creating complex structures with potential uses in fields like aerospace and biomedical engineering. Similarly, his expertise in the behavior of complex fluids informs the development of new materials with unique and useful properties. A significant part of his work involves his dedication to STEM Education in Native American Communities. This commitment reflects a passion for promoting diversity and ensuring inclusion within the engineering disciplines. He invests considerable effort in developing programs and initiatives designed to support Native American students, providing them with the resources and opportunities essential for thriving in STEM fields. In essence, Professor James E. Smay stands out as a respected figure in materials science and engineering. His impactful research, coupled with his commitment to effective teaching and his dedicated efforts in community engagement, particularly in promoting diversity in STEM, make him a truly valuable asset to Oklahoma State University and the wider engineering landscape.
The Chemical Engineering program at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater provides comprehensive undergraduate and graduate education focused on designing processes to produce transform and transport materials. Drawing heavily on chemistry physics and mathematics the curriculum builds a strong foundation in fundamental principles and their application. Students gain practical experience through extensive laboratory work and research projects utilizing modern facilities and computational resources. The program emphasizes problem-solving and prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in traditional industries like energy and manufacturing as well as emerging fields such as biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. The Bachelor of Science degree is accredited by ABET ensuring a high standard of education for professional practice.
Oklahoma State University (OSU) is a public land-grant research university in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Founded in 1890 under the Morrill Act, OSU is the flagship institution of the Oklahoma State University System. The university offers more than 200 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and has a total enrollment of over 35,000 students. OSU is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities Very high research activity". According to the National Science Foundation, OSU spent $198.8 million on research and development in 2021.