Scott Grasman: Dean, College of Engineering at Kettering University
Scott Grasman, a highly accomplished academic leader, was recently named Dean of Kettering University’s College of Engineering, in January 2023. He served as the Interim Dean since July 2022, where he was responsible for providing direction and leadership for the University’s academic programs, research initiatives, and student success programs. Prior to this, he was the Department Head of Industrial Engineering at Kettering since 2017.
“Scott is a visionary on educating Kettering graduates for success in manufacturing,” said founder and CEO of Patti Engineering, Sam Hoff. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and a focus on providing real-world experiences that helps prepare students for their future careers.”
As a faculty member, Grasman has always been passionate about teaching and fostering student success. Even as a dean, he plans to continue teaching courses in the upcoming summer and fall terms. He is excited about his new position and the ability to provide resources to the faculty and students. His current project is a new Industry 4.0 lab where students can work with leading-edge technology in a cross-curricular setting. With the help of Patti Engineering, Grasman has designed the lab to incorporate equipment that students may encounter during their co-ops or permanent jobs.
Grasman’s background in academia runs deep, as he often jokes that he has never held a “real job.” He earned his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering from the University of Michigan before becoming a higher education faculty member. His career as a professor took him to many areas, including his most recent position as Department Head of Industrial and Systems Engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology. Originally from Michigan, his move to Kettering University was a chance to come home to his roots.
Surprisingly enough, Grasman is also not the only engineer in the family that works at the collegiate level. His wife, Kellie, is an Assistant Director for the Center for Research on Learning and Teaching in Engineering at the University of Michigan. Their eldest son attends Kettering University, as a computer engineering student and their twin sons attend the University of Michigan in the chemical engineering and pre-med programs. With all three of their sons in college, they are transitioning into life as empty nesters at their home in Flushing with their three dogs.
In his free time, Grasman enjoys playing hockey a couple of nights a week. His love for hockey began when he was growing up, and he even played as a preferred walk-on at University of Michigan. A few of his hockey peers also helped him pursue a lifelong dream as an on-call firefighter. Otherwise, Grasman can be found working out in the yard and enjoying life outdoors.
Grasman’s passion for education is evident in his dedication to teaching, student success, and providing resources for faculty and students. His accomplishments in academia and his personal life are a testament to his commitment to education and his desire to help others succeed. As Dean of Kettering University, Grasman will continue to lead the university to new heights and inspire the next generation of students and educators.
