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Grace Burleson
PhD student at University of Michigan - Engineering for Change Research Manager
Professional Background
Grace Burleson is a highly skilled researcher and engineer specializing in the intersection of design methodologies and complex social, political, and economic systems. With a keen focus on the global development sphere, Grace's work critically examines the role of engineering in various societal contexts. Her insights address the challenges that arise from engineering practices, which have at times reinforced neocolonialism and dependency, inadequately allocated resources, and overlooked the intricacies of socio-cultural and historical factors.
As a Research Manager at Engineering for Change, LLC, Grace has been instrumental in guiding research initiatives that aim to create sustainable and equitable solutions applicable in diverse global contexts. In her previous roles as Director of Research & Innovation in Uganda and as a Graduate Student Research Assistant at the University of Michigan, her collaboration and leadership have led to innovative projects that nurture ethical engineering practices worldwide. Grace effectively employs her academic background alongside her industry experience to contribute to a critical discourse on engineering's role in global development.
Education and Achievements
Grace's educational journey exemplifies her commitment to understanding the nuanced relationship between engineering and its social implications. She began her academic pursuit at Oregon State University, where she graduated Cum Laude with an Honors Bachelor of Science (HBS) in Mechanical Engineering. Her thirst for knowledge led Grace to continue her studies at the same institution, earning a Dual Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Anthropology. This unique combination of disciplines enables her to integrate technical skills with a deep understanding of human and cultural contexts.
Further advancing her academic credentials, Grace is currently a Ph.D. Pre-Candidate in Design Science, Engineering at the esteemed University of Michigan. Her ongoing research in this area emphasizes the importance of incorporating diverse social perspectives into engineering design, aimed at producing more equitable and inclusive engineering solutions.
Additionally, Grace enhanced her global perspective through an Education Abroad program at Danmarks Tekniske Universitet, where she explored various engineering approaches and methodologies in an international setting.
Notable Contributions
Grace Burleson's extensive involvement with Engineering for Change, LLC is noteworthy. Beginning her journey as an Undergraduate Researcher and progressing through various roles, including Mechanical Engineering Intern at Intel Corporation, she has displayed remarkable adaptability and growth throughout her career. Initially serving as a Junior Program Manager, she became an Expert Research Fellow, where she focused on pushing the boundaries of engineering research in global contexts, ultimately rising to her current position as Research Manager.
Throughout her career, Grace has also made substantial contributions to various community-focused engineering projects. Her role as a Humanitarian Engineering Consultant for TERREWODE highlights her commitment to improving lives through engineering, particularly in under-served communities. By combining her engineering expertise with her aptitude for research and innovation, Grace's efforts aim to foster sustainable, context-sensitive engineering solutions that address local needs and respect cultural realities.
Grace's academic and practical experiences make her a valuable asset to any engineering initiative focused on global development. Her work uniquely positions her at the confluence of technical proficiency and socio-political awareness. Furthermore, she remains actively engaged with the academic community, having contributed numerous publications and presentations on the interplay between engineering ethics, social justice, and design methodologies.
Achievements
- Completion of Dual Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Anthropology, integrating technical prowess with cultural sensitivity.
- Progression from Undergraduate Researcher to Research Manager at Engineering for Change, demonstrating a commitment to leadership and innovation in engineering research.
- Contribution to enhancing community development projects as a Humanitarian Engineering Consultant and Director of Research & Innovation in Uganda, addressing critical issues faced by under-resourced communities.
- Rigorous investigation of engineering practices and sociopolitical systems as part of her Ph.D. in Design Science, Engineering, setting a foundation for potential transformative projects that prioritize equitable solutions in the field of engineering.
Grace Burleson continues to inspire engineers and researchers alike, advocating for meaningful dialogue around ethics and community impact in engineering practices. Her vision paves the way for future advancements that prioritize both technical excellence and social responsibility.
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