Auburn Engineering department chair recognized with service award from IEEE society

Published: Jan 9, 2020 1:14 PM

By Chris Anthony

Mark Nelms, professor and chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, was recognized with the IEEE Industry Application Society’s Distinguished Service Award at the society’s 2019 annual meeting.

The award recognizes an individual for exceptional dedication and service to the society. Nelms, an active volunteer in the society since 1990, has served IAS in various leadership positions and been a key organizer for dozens of conferences.

“Throughout his career, Mark has been a loyal servant to not only Auburn University, but also professional organizations such as the IEEE Industry Application Society and the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department Heads Association,” said Christopher B. Roberts, dean of engineering. “His work has done so much to drive Auburn Engineering and the electrical and computer engineering discipline forward. We are proud to call him an Auburn engineer.”

Nelms’ first IAS volunteer role was as chair of the Student Prize Paper Subcommittee from 1990-92. He also served as chair of the Student Activities Committee (1992-95), Education Department (1995-99) and the Industrial Drives Committee (1996-97). Nelms subsequently served as society secretary (2000), president-elect (2001) and president (2002).

He also chaired the Meetings Department (2006-16) during a period of swift growth in the number of technically co-sponsored conferences. His work with IAS technical conferences includes service as general chair and program chair as well as finance chair for 30 conferences.

An Auburn Engineering faculty member since 1987, Nelms has served as chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering since 2009. He was elected a fellow of IEEE in 2004.

Media Contact: Chris Anthony, chris.anthony@auburn.edu, 334.844.3447
Mark Nelms (left) receiving the IEEE Industry Application Society's Service Award.

Mark Nelms (left) receiving the IEEE Industry Application Society's Service Award.

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