Early Life and Education
Gary S. May was born on May 17, 1964, in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in science and technology, which eventually led him to pursue a career in engineering. May attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering and computer science in 1986. He continued his education at UC Berkeley and received his Master of Science and Ph.D. degrees in 1988 and 1991, respectively.
Professional Career
After completing his education, Gary S. May began his professional career as a research engineer at the Georgia Tech Research Institute in Atlanta. He quickly rose through the ranks and became the director of the Microelectronics Research Center at Georgia Tech in 1999. May’s research focused on semiconductor manufacturing and integrated circuit design, and he made significant contributions to the field during his time at Georgia Tech.
Leadership Roles
In 2011, Gary S. May was appointed as the dean of the College of Engineering at Georgia Tech, where he served for seven years. Under his leadership, the College of Engineering experienced significant growth and development, becoming one of the top engineering schools in the country. May’s innovative approach to education and research helped to establish Georgia Tech as a leader in engineering education.
Accomplishments and Awards
Throughout his career, Gary S. May has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the field of engineering. He is a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and an IEEE Fellow. These prestigious honors recognize May’s outstanding achievements in research, education, and leadership within the engineering community.
Research Contributions
May’s research focuses on semiconductor manufacturing, integrated circuit design, and microelectronics technology. He has published over 200 technical papers in top-tier journals and conferences, making significant contributions to the field of engineering. His work has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of semiconductor materials and devices, leading to innovations in electronic devices and systems.
Philanthropic Efforts
In addition to his academic and research accomplishments, Gary S. May is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has been actively involved in promoting diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, advocating for underrepresented minority students and professionals. May has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for women and minorities in engineering, helping to bridge the gap in representation within the field.
Current Role at UC Berkeley
In July 2017, Gary S. May returned to his alma mater, the University of California, Berkeley, as its chancellor. In this role, he oversees one of the top public universities in the country, leading initiatives to promote excellence in education, research, and public service. May’s vision for UC Berkeley focuses on fostering innovation and collaboration across disciplines to address complex societal challenges.
Impact on Engineering Education
As a leader in engineering education, Gary S. May has made significant contributions to shaping the future of the field. His innovative approach to curriculum development and pedagogy has transformed engineering education at both Georgia Tech and UC Berkeley. May’s emphasis on experiential learning and interdisciplinary collaboration has inspired a new generation of engineers to think creatively and solve complex problems.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
One of Gary S. May’s core values is a commitment to diversity and inclusion within the engineering community. He has been a vocal advocate for increasing representation of women and minorities in STEM fields, working to create a more inclusive environment for all students and professionals. May’s efforts have had a lasting impact on diversity initiatives within academia and industry.
Future Outlook
As a trailblazer in engineering, Gary S. May continues to inspire others through his leadership, research, and advocacy efforts. His dedication to advancing diversity and inclusion within STEM fields serves as a model for future generations of engineers. May’s visionary leadership at UC Berkeley will undoubtedly shape the future of engineering education and research for years to come.
