News

The Electrical and Computer Engineering Department continues to be shaped by the many individuals who have contributed their time, resources, and talents over the years. Here we would like to highlight Dr. Don W. Shaw, an individual who has contributed all three of those things to the future of this department and the success of the students within it. We sat down with Dr. Shaw to pick his brain on what makes this place special and his vision of its future.

Dr. Shaw was invited to join the Erik Jonsson School faculty after a career of more than 30 years in research at Texas Instruments. His initial efforts at UTD were aimed at enhancing the electronic materials activities within ECE and continuing a joint program with the School of Management on leadership in engineering management. Dr. Shaw contributed to the growth of these efforts beginning with a single course that eventually evolved into a full Materials Science and Engineering Department. He is currently an Emeritus Professor of Electrical Engineering and Materials Science in the School of Engineering and Computer Science.

Dr. Shaw believes an especially close tie with the DFW area high-tech industry is what makes ECE at UTD unique. There are extensive person-to-person interactions between faculty and students as well as the employees of firms such as Raytheon, Texas Instruments, and Qorvo. In his experience, the research activities are pertinent and highly appreciated by electronics firms. He is proud of the recognition and respect that the Jonsson School receives from its peer institutions.

We asked Dr. Shaw how he thinks ECE at UTD prepares our students for the future. He responded that ECE’s students are motivated by an extraordinarily dedicated faculty and entrepreneurship is encouraged. Dr. Shaw believes ECE at UTD has a bright future and the strong faculty within the Jonsson School together with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities will be enabling factors. Dr. Shaw is encouraged by the achievements and the steady rise in academic and research rankings. He takes pleasure in watching the department grow not only in size but also in prestige.

Dr. Shaw said the experience he’ll always cherish at UTD is the enjoyment of working with its talented students. The Electrical and Computer Engineering Department and its students are fortunate to have Dr. Don W. Shaw on its faculty and his contributions to UTD. As an Emeritus Professor, he aims to help both the ECE and MSE departments in any way he can to ensure their continued growth.