Yaprak earns prestigious IEEE Fellow distinction
Ece Yaprak, Ph.D., professor and chair of Wayne State University’s Engineering Technology Division, has been named an IEEE Fellow, one of the most prestigious honors conferred by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. This recognition is awarded to individuals with extraordinary accomplishments in IEEE’s fields of interest, with less than 0.1% of the organization's voting members elevated to Fellow status annually.
Yaprak was recognized for her significant contributions to engineering technology education, accreditation and workforce development. Her career has spanned decades of impactful leadership in national organizations such as IEEE, ABET and the National Science Foundation (NSF), where her efforts have transformed academic programs and prepared the next generation of engineers to meet industry demands.
“It is an honor to be named an IEEE Fellow,” said Yaprak. “This acknowledgment is not only a testament to my contributions but also to the collaborative efforts of my colleagues, mentors and students who have supported and inspired me throughout my career. I remain committed to advancing engineering education and preparing future engineers to thrive in an ever-evolving industry.”
Yaprak has served in numerous influential roles with IEEE, including commissioner and team chair for the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission; vice-chair and chair of the IEEE Committee on Engineering Technology Accreditation Activities; and one of three IEEE representatives on the ABET Board of Delegates. She has led efforts to refine accreditation policies and criteria for engineering technology programs.
Her tenure as an NSF program director further underscores her dedication to advancing engineering education. She managed funding for undergraduate engineering education programs, evaluated research proposals and helped guide long-term strategic planning. Her expertise in applying NASA and U.S. Navy-funded research to classroom instruction has enriched the student learning experience in the Wayne State University College of Engineering.
As chair of the Engineering Technology Division, Yaprak spearheaded the development of cutting-edge programs in robotics as well as welding and metallurgical engineering technology, forging partnerships with industrial leaders, community colleges and alumni.
“Dr. Yaprak exemplifies the spirit of innovation, collaboration and excellence that defines our college,” said Ali Abolmaali, Ph.D., P.E., dean of the College of Engineering. “Her leadership and dedication have not only elevated engineering education at Wayne State but also had a lasting impact on the global engineering community.”
IEEE is the world’s largest technical professional organization and is a public charity dedicated to advancing technological innovation and excellence for the benefit of humanity. The organization and its members inspire a global community through its highly cited publications, conferences, technology standards, and professional and educational activities.