Dr. Kelvin T. Erickson, professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Missouri-Rolla, became chair of the electrical and computer engineering department on Sept. 1.

Erickson had served as interim chair for a year after replacing Dr. Keith Stanek, Fred Finley Distinguished Professor of Computer Engineering, who served nine years as chair.

Erickson has been with UMR full-time since 1986 in a variety of positions, including assistant professor of electrical engineering, assistant chair of undergraduate studies, assistant chair of laboratory development and associate professor of electrical and computer engineering. His research interests include manufacturing automation, process control, communication networks, and instrumentation for the oil and gas industry.

Erickson is also an alumnus of UMR, receiving his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering in 1978 and his master’s degree in electrical engineering in 1979. He received a doctorate in electrical engineering from Iowa State University in 1983.