Story: Lisa Sollie | Photo: Betsy Compton
Dr. Narendra Datta has been named chair of the Division of Engineering Technology at the University of West Alabama.
Datta has served as interim chair since June 2024, leading the Division through a successful ABET re-accreditation process, submitting materials for both the Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology and the Associate of Applied Science in Industrial Maintenance programs, according to the announcement from UWA Provost Dr. Tina Jones.
“I’m honored to step into his new role,” says Datta, “and excited to continue working alongside such dedicated faculty, staff, and students.”
Under his leadership, the Division has acquired new instructional equipment and expanded both industry and academic partnerships. Collaborations now include companies such as Phifer Inc., Georgia-Pacific, AM/NS Calvert, Continental Aerospace, and the Engineer Research and Development Center. Academic partnerships with institutions including the University of Alabama, UAB, and UAH continue to be strengthened.
Datta has launched several key initiatives including a guest lecture series, enhanced capstone projects, and new co-op opportunities with industry leaders like Mercedes-Benz and Lavender Inc. He has also been active in recruitment efforts, coordinating campus visits with area high school groups.
Under Datta’s guidance, the Division recently established the Epsilon Beta chapter of the Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society, while also expanding fundraising and international study opportunities.
Looking ahead, Datta says his focus will remain on strengthening industry partnerships, expanding applied learning opportunities, and aligning engineering technology programs with workforce needs.
“We’re working on several initiatives to give our students greater access to real-world projects, modern equipment, scholarships, and career pathways in high-demand technical fields,” notes Datta. “We’re also engaging our alumni network. I’m excited to continue the momentum we’ve built and lead the Division forward.”
Dr. Datta earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical and electronics engineering from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University in India, and both a master’s and doctorate in aerospace engineering and mechanics from the University of Alabama.