UA_Engineer_25_FINAL_spreads (1) - Flipbook - Page 31
Alabama Engineering Hallof Fame
Founded by proclamation of the governor, the Alabama Engineering Hall of Fame honors, preserves and
perpetuates the outstanding accomplishments and contributions of individuals, projects, and corporations
or institutions that have brought and continue to bring significant recognition to the state. This year,
two of the inductees are alumni of The University of Alabama College of Engineering.
J. Michael O’Brien,
Dr. Charles L. Karr,
B.S. in Civil Engineering, 1975
President and CEO, American
Cast Iron Pipe Company
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering,
1984; M.S., 1986; Ph.D., 1989
President, The University of
Alabama in Huntsville
J. Michael “Mike” O’Brien
Dr. Charles “Chuck” Karr is
a longtime leader in engineering
education and research across
Alabama. A three-time graduate
of The University of Alabama,
he served as professor, department head and dean of
the College of Engineering, where he led major growth
in enrollment, faculty and research. He also built
partnerships with industry and government organizations
to support innovation and workforce development. Now
president of The University of Alabama in Huntsville,
Karr continues to foster research and economic growth in
the region. Under his leadership, UAH achieved R1 status
from the Carnegie Foundation and secured significant
funding to address critical workforce needs.
has spent nearly five decades
advancing sustainable
manufacturing and supporting
engineering education in
Alabama. After joining American
Cast Iron Pipe Company as a research engineer, he held
several leadership roles before being named the company’s
11th president and CEO. He has helped expand operations,
grow international partnerships and lead decarbonization
efforts through initiatives like the Next Generation Melt
Project. An avid supporter of The University of Alabama,
O’Brien has served on the Capstone Engineering Society
board and helped expand access to engineering education
statewide. He was named a UA Distinguished Engineering
Fellow in 1999.
ENGINEERING CAREER & CO-OP
The Engineering Career Development Center, a satellite office of
The University of Alabama Career Center, offers specialized resources
and opportunities for career and professional development.
ENGAGE: The ECDC proudly serves current students and alumni
of the College of Engineering, fostering meaningful engagement
throughout every stage of the professional journey.
PREPARE: From resume reviews and mock interviews to career
counseling, the ECDC equips individuals with the tools and experience
they need to succeed in their chosen fields. The center offers a variety
of opportunities for employers to build their campus presence and connect
with students by participating in student organization events, hosting
information sessions, supporting professional development programs
and engaging in campus outreach initiatives.
CONNECT: The ECDC helps students secure internships, co-ops and
full-time positions by facilitating connections with employers and guiding
them through the hiring process.
COOP.SA.UA.EDU I 205-348-6422 I COOP@UA.EDU
FALL 2025 | CAPSTONE ENGINEER | 31
