Doug Garland

Doug Garland is the Associate Dean of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Virginia's School of Engineering and Applied Science. He took on this role on September 1, 2022, bringing extensive experience from Silicon Valley, where he held senior positions at major tech companies such as Google, Yahoo!, and Twilio. His background also includes advisory roles with startups like Shazam and working with the venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins as an Executive-in-Residence.12

Education and Career Background

Garland earned his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Systems Engineering from UVA in 1983 and 1987, respectively, followed by an MBA from Stanford University in 1990. His career began as a communications engineer in the U.S. Air Force, after which he transitioned into the tech industry, focusing on launching and scaling innovative products.123

Contributions at UVA

In his current position, Garland aims to foster a culture of entrepreneurship among engineering students at UVA. He emphasizes the importance of engineers in driving innovation, contrasting the traditional view that entrepreneurship is primarily a business school domain. He has initiated programs like the Tech Entrepreneurs in Action: Distinguished Speakers Series, which connects students with successful alumni in the venture capital and startup spaces.12

Garland's vision includes enhancing educational programming related to entrepreneurship and supporting faculty efforts in this area. He is also involved in planning for a new building dedicated to research and education in engineering.12