College of Engineering names Nezih Pala chair of electrical and computer engineering
The College of Engineering has announced that Nezih Pala, Ph.D., has been appointed as chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, effective August 1, 2026.
Pala is an accomplished electrical and computer engineering scholar and academic leader with more than two decades of experience spanning both academia and industry. He earned his doctorate in electrical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and most recently served as a chaired professor and graduate program director in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Florida International University.
His research focuses on advanced electronic and photonic devices, intelligent sensing systems and AI-driven technologies with applications in energy, communications and healthcare.
Throughout his career, Pala has secured more than $12 million in external funding from agencies and partners including the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, Department of Defense and industry. He has authored more than 300 scholarly publications and holds multiple patents.
During his tenure at Florida International University, Pala played a significant role in expanding the department’s doctoral program, supporting substantial growth in graduate enrollment and strengthening academic and research infrastructure. He also contributed extensively to accreditation and assessment efforts while leading initiatives focused on mentoring, diversity and student success.
A recognized leader in mentoring and engineering education, Pala has guided numerous graduate and undergraduate students and received awards recognizing his commitment to student mentorship and development.
At Tennessee Tech, Pala will lead the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering with a vision centered on applied engineering excellence, student success, nationally visible research growth in energy and intelligent systems, and strengthened partnerships that support regional innovation and workforce development.