New Programs, Partnerships Propel Wentworth Engineering Forward
It has been a transformative year for Wentworth Institute of Technology’s School of Engineering, marked by significant academic advancements and accomplishments from faculty, students, and alumni.
Moving up in the U.S. News & World Report rankings is just one reflection of the school’s upward trajectory. From launching innovative programs like the Engineering–Robotics and Master’s in Mechanical Engineering degrees to forging key partnerships with organizations such as RoboBoston and KEEN (the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network), the School is redefining the future of engineering education in Boston.
It would seem that more and more people are taking notice of the school’s investments in technology and student experience. With the help of skilled industry professionals-turned-faculty—and some significant external funding—Wentworth is empowering students and faculty to make a lasting impact on the world.
“We’re extremely proud of the work that everyone in the School of Engineering has put in over the last year, and it’s rewarding to see those outside of Wentworth also take notice,” said President Mark Thompson.
Rankings Rise
Wentworth saw a number of prestigious publications name the university to their “top” lists this fall, including the likes of Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, and The Princeton Review. But it was U.S. News and World Report that put a spotlight on the School of Engineering .
In addition to Wentworth jumping from #70 to #44 year over year in the category of “Best Value Schools – Regional Universities (North),” the category of top “Undergraduate Engineering Programs (No Doctorate)” saw Wentworth move from #58 to #37, a robust jump in one year for universities. Two years ago, Wentworth was ranked #70 in the Engineering category.
“This recent rise in the ranking underscores a strong commitment to academic excellence, industry-driven innovation, and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset,” said Ali Khabari, dean of the School of Engineering.
There are a number of reasons the school’s reputation rose this past year and why it’s on an exciting path for further growing successful engineers in the future. A sampling of those reasons is outlined below.
Pioneering New Programs and Facilities
The introduction of the Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Robotics and the Master’s in Mechanical Engineering in Fall 2024 marks a new era of opportunity for students. These programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of industry and empower graduates to lead in innovation and problem-solving.
Supporting these programs is the newly enhanced Robotics Engineering Laboratory, outfitted with advanced technologies such as the Boston Dynamics Spot robot and Quanser drones and manipulator arms. This state-of-the-art facility provides students with unparalleled opportunities to engage in hands-on learning and robotics research. The School of Engineering invested roughly a million dollars to upgrade its 32 laboratories.
Driving Success Through Strategic Partnerships
Collaborations with organizations like RoboBoston and KEEN are fueling student innovation and industry engagement. Significant funding from the Massachusetts Life Science Center ($500K) and the Lufkin Foundation ($200K) has further bolstered the school’s ability to invest in cutting-edge robotics equipment, support scholarships, and advance impactful research initiatives.
Celebrating Faculty Excellence
Wentworth faculty are at the forefront of engineering education and research, earning prestigious awards and distinctions:
- Gautham Das: 2024 College Educator Award, Boston Society of Civil Engineers
- Jayshri Kulkarni: Vice Chair, IEEE MTT/APS Boston Chapter
- Anuja Kamat: Vice President for Boston Society of Civil Engineers and immediate past chair for American Society of Engineering Education Northeast section
- Mansour Zenouzi: Appointed ABET Commissioner
- Serdar Tumkor: Recipient of the William E. Roberts Endowed Professorship
- Afsaneh Ghanavati: Recipient of the Schumann Professorship Endowed Professorship
- Saurav Basnet: IEEE PES Boston Best Volunteer Award
- Kapil Gangwar: 2024 Distinguished Faculty Advisor Award by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers
In 2024, faculty members in the School published 132 research articles and delivered presentations at national conferences, including 52 collaborative papers with external partners and 32 publications co-authored with Wentworth engineering students.
And the School of Engineering has signed an articulation agreement with Simmons University for five-year dual science and engineering degrees.
“Our overall achievements reflect the collaborative efforts of dedicated faculty, staff, and students who create a dynamic learning environment,” said Khabari. “Together, they empower the next generation of engineers to lead and shape the future with confidence and creativity.”
Student Achievements: Innovation in Action
Wentworth students have excelled in competitions, research, and collaborative projects, showcasing their talent and dedication to engineering excellence. Notable achievements include:
- IEEE WUROV team in the Mass Robotics Forms and Function competition third place finish
- Airport Cooperative Research Program University Design Competition honorable mention
- Outstanding IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu Chapter Award, ranking among the top 8% nationally
- Finger Spelling Hand for the deafblind community with Tatum Robotics collaboration
- Engineering students presented and published their Pico satellite design at conferences like SmallSat Education and MIT URTC
Compelling Co-ops
School of Engineering students on co-op during the Summer and Fall terms found opportunities at a variety of interesting and well-known organizations including Aerotek, Beth Israel Deaconess, Bond Brothers, Boston Dynamics, Boston Water & Sewer Commission, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Department of Transportation New Hampshire, Eversource, GE Aviation, GZAEnvironmental, Hensel Phelps, Lexitek, Logic, Maglev Aero, Massachusetts General Hospital, MIT Lincoln Labs, Nauset, Nokia, Rolls Royce, Syqwest, TG Gallagher, TJX, Trimedx, Turner Construction, Walt Disney World, and Walmart Advanced Systems & Robotics.
Alumni Making Their Mark
Wentworth alumni continue to make significant contributions to their fields. Recent examples include:
- Brenda Benaski ’21, received the L3Harris Technologies Innovation Award, underscoring the impact of Wentworth’s hands-on, industry-focused education.
- Kenita Simmons, Electromechanical Engineering ’09, named to the Huntsville Business Journal’s “Top 40 Under 40” list
- Desiree Patrice, Civil Engineering ’98, honored with the 2024 Women Making Transportation History Award from COMTO Boston (Conference of Minority Transportation Officials)
A Vision for the Future
Wentworth’s School of Engineering is experiencing growing interest from students. Applications to the school were up for Fall 2025 by approximately 23% compared to last year. First-year enrollments were up last year by 24%, and 34% compared to 2023.
To ensure continued growth and relevance, the School of Engineering has formed a Dean’s Advisory Council composed of industry leaders. This council will provide strategic insights and help shape the school’s trajectory in the years ahead.
As Wentworth expands its programs, forges meaningful partnerships, and empowers its students to thrive in a rapidly changing world, it remains committed to becoming a global leader in engineering education.
“The School of Engineering’s accomplishments demonstrate our commitment to fostering a high-value learning environment that blends rigorous academics with real-world applications," said Provost and Executive Vice President Sophia Maggelakis. "By introducing innovative programs, enhancing state-of-the-art facilities, and forging impactful partnerships, we are preparing students to address complex challenges and lead the way in shaping the future of engineering."