William Goodin, PhD, SWE Fellow

Mentor/ Advisor/ Relationship Builder/ I utilize my network of engineering alumni and corporate partners to enhance the experiences and careers of engineering students and to benefit the UCLA School of Engineering

William Goodin, PhD, is a prominent figure in engineering education and alumni relations at the UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science, specifically within the Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) Department. With over 35 years of experience, Goodin has made significant contributions to fostering connections between students and alumni, enhancing professional development opportunities, and promoting mentorship within the engineering community.

Educational Background

Undergraduate Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from San Jose State University.
Graduate Degrees: Master of Science (M.S.), Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), and Master of Engineering (M.Eng) from UCLA.

Career Path

Goodin's career began with a focus on research, particularly in environmental engineering. His doctoral research involved computer simulation modeling of atmospheric pollutants in the Los Angeles Basin. After completing a postdoctoral fellowship at Caltech, he transitioned to education and alumni relations, taking on roles such as:

Director of Engineering Short Course Programs at UCLA Extension.
Associate Director of Alumni Relations at UCLA Samueli School.
Current position as Industry Relations Coordinator for the ECE Department.

Contributions and Achievements

Goodin is recognized for his extensive volunteer work that bridges the gap between students and alumni. His efforts have included organizing career fairs, advising student organizations like the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), and participating in national conferences to support students. Notably, he was elected as a SWE Fellow in 2023 for his long-standing commitment to supporting women in engineering.1 2 4

He has received multiple accolades for his contributions, including:

Tau Beta Pi Distinguished Alumni Award (2024).
UCLA Samueli Engineering Alumni Association Service Award (2004).
ASCE Region 9 Practitioner Advisor of the Year (twice).

Vision and Philosophy

Goodin emphasizes the importance of mentorship in engineering education and encourages graduates to seek guidance as they navigate their careers. He believes that adaptability is crucial in engineering, reflecting on his own career shifts from research to education.1 2 3

In summary, William Goodin's dedication to fostering relationships within the engineering community at UCLA has established him as a key figure in alumni relations and education, making significant impacts on both current students and alumni alike.