The College of Engineering’s annual Co-op Employer Forum is held during the Engineering Design Conference.  The intent of the forum is to bring together engineering professionals in academia and industry who are engaged in engineering education initiatives to share information on effective models, experiences and best practices.  The goal is to emphasize the mutually beneficial partnerships between the Padnos College of Engineering with industry and government, as well as to allow a collaborative networking space for all participants.

Dr. Bayo Ogundipe, Inaugural Dean, Padnos College of Engineering will present a brief overview presentation of his vision/plan for the college and co-op program, followed by industry roundtables led by facilitator, Ryan Noble, Business Lead, Engineering Solutions, DISHER, to provide constructive feedback for a renewed vision for GVSU’s Engineering Co-op program, which marks its 40th anniversary celebration during the fall 2026.

The annual Co-op Employer Forum will be followed by a constituent networking event that includes industry partners/employers, alumni, faculty, staff, and students.  This event promises to be an excellent opportunity to enjoy evening refreshments and honor the longstanding co-op legacy while bolding exploring new directions.  The annual Co-op Employer Forum and constituent networking events will be followed by the Dean’s Preview Presentation, which will provide insight regarding the collective vision and bold new vision that Dr. Bayo Ogundipe, Padnos College of Engineering’s Dean has in store as the inaugural Padnos College Dean and leader of the renewed Padnos College of Engineering direction.

With great anticipation for the upcoming schedule of events, we extend an invitation for you to join us, work with us, and support us as we actualize our collective vision and forge a bold new direction.

Bayo Ogundipe currently serves as the Dean of the Padnos College of Engineering at Grand Valley State University. He was previously a Professor and Head of the Department Engineering at James Madison University. His scholarly background includes DOD-sponsored work was on developing tools and protocols for assessing sustainable engineering designs. He is the co-author of 2 textbooks on sustainable engineering as well as multiple guidance documents on the topic. He has taught undergraduate and graduate courses in chemical, environmental, civil and mechanical engineering.

His interests have expanded to include synergistic activities between engineering and non- engineering disciplines with the goal of interdisciplinary holistic approaches to problem solving. His ongoing cross-disciplinary work leverages international collaborations to develop appropriate educational modules that help engineering students develop complementary skills and cultural competencies.  Bayo earned his Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Lagos in Nigeria, followed by a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering and PhD in Environmental Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology, NJ.

Ryan is a seasoned professional with expertise spanning engineering, education, leadership, and operations. He is an executive leader at DISHER and is a member of the Padnos College of Engineering industry advisory board. He is uniquely positioned to guide diverse groups with a proven track record of helping teams navigate complex challenges, encouraging creative solutions, and transforming ideas into actionable outcomes. Ryan's approach focuses on creating environments where participants can freely vet concepts and collaboratively develop innovative strategies with divergent exploration and convergent refinement.

Co-op Employer of the Year

Mission Design & Automation

Co-op Supervisor of the Year

John Hall, AMDI

Co-op Advisor of the Year

Dr. Mehmet Sözen

Co-op Student of the Year

Grace Piasecki, SCHERDEL Medtec, North America

Awards Archive