ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Education

Doctorate of Philosophy, Physics, Iowa State University
Masters of Science, Physics, Iowa State University
Bachelors of Science, Physics, Southern University

Professor and Chair of Physics

Chaired the Physics Department at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, teaching and mentors students.
Developed a nationally recognized program for the preparation of minority students for careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

LASER Program

Initiated an innovative concept to cultivate, train, and empower future STEM professionals.
This mission-driven program ensured excellence at every stage of professional development, preparing students not only for undergraduate and graduate education in STEM fields but also for a variety of technical careers.
By providing a clear vision and ongoing support, guiding students on their journeys, both inside and outside the classroom.

Professional Experience

Dr. Willie Williams Jr boasts a distinguished career marked by impactful research, project development, and strategic analysis in the technology sector. Willie joined Lincoln University as an Assistant Professor of Physics and Director of the Pre-Engineering Program, he emerged as a leader in both academia and industry.

Dr. Williams' commitment to inspiring future generations of engineers is evident through his initiatives. He launched the Lincoln Aerospace Engineering Recruitment Program (LASER), leveraging regional aerospace partnerships to provide students with valuable hands-on experience. This program later evolved into the Lincoln Advanced Science and Engineering Reinforcement Program, further strengthening Lincoln's internal capabilities to better serve its student body.

His early work at the National Bureau of Standards on laser information transmission and his subsequent role as Chair of the Physics Department demonstrate his deep understanding of physics principles. Dr. Williams's research has been instrumental in securing high-profile projects, including a NASA grant to investigate composite materials for space shuttle heat shields in collaboration with the Lewis Research Center. His work with the U.S. Department of Defense on high-speed communication materials for outer space further solidifies his expertise.

Throughout his career, Dr. Williams has held numerous prestigious positions, including Manager of Spectro Radiometric Research, Chief of the Spectral Technology Division, and Technology Director at IMNIT - Ground Office. His tenure as Deputy Director of the Collaboration and Innovation Center and Director of the Ground Enterprise Directorates underscores his strategic leadership in technology development.

Dr. Williams is a trusted advisor in high-performance computing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, particularly for satellite data collection and processing. Beyond his technical expertise, he is dedicated to fostering the next generation of talent through programs like Early Alert: Young Scholars, which identifies and mentors promising students in science and engineering. Possessing a renowned career marked by strategic vision, innovative research, and a commitment to education. Dr. Williams continues to be a leading figure shaping the future of technology and engineering.