Mike O’Donnell Named as New Director for the Center for Industrial Research & Service at Iowa State University
Iowa State University has named Mike O’Donnell as the Director for The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS), where he will lead the overall strategic direction. This announcement follows a comprehensive search led Martin Baker and Dr. Pelema Ellis.
With a distinguished background in manufacturing and engineering, he brings over two decades of experience to the role. He has served CIRAS since 2008, making de significant contributions to the organization. Over the past decade, he led CIRAS Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program, a dedicated initiative aimed at equipping manufacturers throughout Iowa with the essential tools and resources for achieving success. O’Donnell led efforts to establish the renowned CIRAS Digital Manufacturing Lab powered by Alliant Energy, launch the influential Iowa Sustainable Business Forum, and expand CIRAS services in strategy and growth
Holding a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Bucknell University, along with an MBA from Iowa State University, he exhibits a strong academic foundation.
The Center for Industrial Research and Service (CIRAS) is part of the College of Engineering and the Office of Economic Development and Industry Relations (EDIR) at Iowa State University. Since 1963, CIRAS has partnered with Iowa companies and communities to help them prosper and grow.