Shreyes N. Melkote, Morris M. Bryan Jr. Professor in the George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and executive director of the Novelis Innovation Hub at Georgia Tech, has been named interim associate vice president of Corporate Engagement, effective Sept. 1. He will report to Executive Vice President for Research Tim Lieuwen and will lead the Office of Corporate Engagement (OCE) during a national search for the position’s permanent successor. 

Melkote succeeds J. Mark Nolan, who announced he will step down from the role effective Aug. 31 after helping establish and grow Georgia Tech’s integrated approach to corporate engagement and industry partnerships. 

“I am grateful to Shreyes for stepping into this important leadership role during this transition,” said Lieuwen. “Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an exceptional ability to build meaningful partnerships between academia and industry. His deep understanding of research, innovation, and corporate collaboration makes him uniquely qualified to lead our corporate engagement efforts as we continue advancing Georgia Tech’s mission and strengthening relationships with industry partners around the world.” 

Melkote brings extensive experience building industry partnerships and collaborative research programs. He serves as executive director of the Novelis Innovation Hub at Georgia Tech and has led the Institute’s strategic engagement with The Boeing Company since 2012 through its University Innovation Program. An internationally recognized manufacturing researcher, Melkote has authored more than 300 publications and is a fellow of ASME, SME, and CIRP. 

“I am honored to serve in this role and build upon the strong foundation established by Mark Nolan and the Office of Corporate Engagement team,” said Melkote.  

A national search is underway for the permanent associate vice president of Corporate Engagement. The search is being led by Chris Jones, John F. Brock III School Chair and Professor in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, with support from executive search firm WittKieffer.  
 
Learn more about the position and search process.