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Tom Mackin

Professor

Thomas J. Mackin is a Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering at Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo, California.1 He has an extensive background in academia and industry, with expertise in various fields of engineering and homeland security.

Academic Career

Mackin received his Ph.D. in Engineering Science and Mechanics from Penn State in 1991.1 He began his academic career at the University of Illinois, where he served as an Associate Professor from 1993 to 2005.1 In 2005, he joined Cal Poly State University as a Professor and Chair of the Mechanical Engineering Department.12

Research and Expertise

His research interests include:

  • Mechanics of Materials
  • MEMS and NEMS
  • Microfabrication
  • Microelectronic Packaging
  • Non-Destructive Testing
  • Thermoelastic Stress Analysis
  • Failure Analysis
  • Science and Technology Policy
  • Critical Infrastructure Protection2

Notable Positions and Achievements

  • Contract Professor in the Center for Homeland Defense and Security at Naval Postgraduate School1
  • Former Chief Science Officer at Synbotics1
  • Founding member of the Board at Mission Street Manufacturing1
  • ASME Executive Office Fellow in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (2002-2003)13
  • Founding Director of the Illinois Homeland Security Research Center1
  • Co-founder of the Center for Collaborative Engineering Research and Education (CCERE) with UCSB1
  • Co-founder of the Center for Renewable Energy and Alternative Transportation Technologies at Cal Poly1

Industry Experience

Mackin has been involved in several entrepreneurial ventures and consulting roles:

  • Vice President of Engineering at Castle Innovations LLC (June 2023 - Present)1
  • Chief Scientist at Synbotics (2010 - 2012)1
  • Sole Proprietor of Mackin Instruments, a consultancy for failure analysis and specialty test equipment design1

Thomas J. Mackin's diverse experience in academia, government, and industry has contributed to his expertise in mechanical engineering, homeland security, and innovative technologies.

Highlights

Jul 1 · me.calpoly.edu
Mackin, Thomas - Mechanical Engineering
Faculty and Staff | Cal Poly Academic Catalog
Engineering professor spends year as liaison at White House
Engineering professor spends year as liaison at White House

Related Questions

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Tom Mackin
Tom Mackin, photo 1
Tom Mackin, photo 2
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Location

San Luis Obispo, California