Imagine a world where engineering goes beyond blueprints and tackles global-scale challenges like climate change and resource scarcity. That’s the vision Fariborz Maseeh champions, and he’s putting it into action through strategic investments and philanthropic endeavors.
At a glance:
- Understand Fariborz Maseeh’s focus on “engineering the big” and its implications.
- Explore the impact of his philanthropic investments, particularly in education and healthcare.
- Learn how the Fariborz Maseeh Department at UT Austin is transforming engineering education.
- Discover actionable insights for aligning engineering projects with global sustainability goals.
Beyond Building: Engineering the Big with Fariborz Maseeh
Fariborz Maseeh’s impact extends far beyond traditional engineering. He envisions “engineering the big,” which encompasses tackling complex issues related to cities, water, and energy on a global scale. This philosophy is deeply embedded in his philanthropic efforts and business ventures. The core idea is to shift the focus from individual projects to interconnected systems.
For example, instead of just building a new bridge, “engineering the big” would consider the bridge’s impact on traffic flow, urban development patterns, and environmental considerations within the region. It’s a holistic approach to problem-solving.
The Massiah Foundation: Investing in Human Potential
Established in 2001, the Massiah Foundation serves as the vehicle for Fariborz Maseeh’s philanthropic endeavors. The foundation’s focus is broad, encompassing education, healthcare, and social causes. A significant portion of its resources are directed towards supporting the Kids Institute for Development and Advancement (KIDA), a center dedicated to treating children with autism. This investment reflects Maseeh’s commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by developmental challenges.
Beyond KIDA, the Massiah Foundation supports a range of initiatives. These include educational programs aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, and healthcare projects focused on improving access to quality medical care. The foundation’s approach is to identify areas where strategic investments can have a significant and lasting impact.
A Transformational Gift: The Fariborz Maseeh Department at UT Austin
One of the most significant examples of Fariborz Maseeh’s commitment to “engineering the big” is his transformational investment in the University of Texas at Austin. The university renamed its Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering to the Fariborz Maseeh Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering in recognition of his gift. This investment represents more than just financial support; it’s a strategic partnership aimed at modernizing engineering education and research.
The goal is to equip future engineers with the skills and knowledge needed to address the complex challenges facing our world. The department is a top-ranked program, graduating approximately 250 undergraduate and 100 graduate students annually. The investment supports UT’s “What Starts Here” fundraising campaign and is designed to emphasize leadership and service in solving global challenges.
Here are some ways the investment is being used to transform the department:
- Curriculum Modernization: Integrating sustainability and resilience into core courses.
- Research Innovation: Funding research projects focused on climate change, resource management, and infrastructure resilience.
- Faculty Recruitment: Attracting leading experts in emerging fields such as smart cities and renewable energy.
- Student Support: Providing scholarships and fellowships to attract top talent.
This investment isn’t just about improving the department’s ranking; it’s about cultivating a new generation of engineers who are equipped to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.
Serving the Academic Community
Fariborz Maseeh’s dedication to education extends beyond financial contributions. He actively serves on advisory boards and governing bodies at several prestigious universities, including MIT, USC, Portland State University, and Harvard Medical School. Learn about Fariborz Maseeh and his diverse activities.
His current affiliations include:
- Member of the MIT Corporation.
- Chair of the Sponsored Research visiting committee at MIT.
- Member of the Board of Fellows of Harvard Medical School.
- Member of the engineering advisory boards at Viterbi School of Engineering at USC, Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science at Portland State University, and the School of Engineering at MIT.
- Caltech Board of Trustees (Elected 2021).
- Standing Committees: Governance and Nominating; Investment
His past service includes being an Oregon-appointed member of the inaugural board of Portland State University, an executive member of the California Council of Science and Technology, and Chairman of the Foundation Board of Directors of Children’s Hospital of Orange County. This active involvement allows him to shape the direction of these institutions and ensure they are aligned with the needs of a changing world.
Why “Engineering the Big” Matters Now: A Playbook for Action
The concept of “engineering the big” isn’t just a nice idea; it’s a necessity in the face of global challenges. To make this vision a reality, engineers need to adopt a new mindset and skillset. Here’s a practical playbook for action:
- Systems Thinking: Develop the ability to see how different systems are interconnected. For example, consider how a new transportation project will impact air quality, energy consumption, and social equity.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work effectively with experts from other fields, such as urban planning, environmental science, and public health.
- Sustainability Focus: Prioritize projects that minimize environmental impact and promote long-term sustainability.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Use data to inform design decisions and track the performance of projects.
- Community Engagement: Involve the community in the planning process to ensure that projects meet their needs and address their concerns.
- Embrace Innovation: Be open to new technologies and approaches that can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of engineering solutions.
Example: Consider a project to develop a new water management system for a city. A traditional engineering approach might focus on building a new reservoir or treatment plant. However, an “engineering the big” approach would consider the entire water cycle, including water conservation, stormwater management, and wastewater reuse. It would also involve collaboration with urban planners, environmental scientists, and community stakeholders to develop a comprehensive and sustainable solution.
Decision Tree: Applying “Engineering the Big”
| Question | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Does project impact multiple systems? | Analyze interdependencies. | Re-evaluate project scope. |
| Does it involve multiple disciplines? | Build a collaborative team. | Seek external perspectives. |
| Does it promote sustainability? | Prioritize eco-friendly options. | Explore alternatives or offset impacts. |
| Is decision-making data-driven? | Gather and analyze relevant data. | Establish metrics and collect data. |
| Is community involved in the planning? | Actively solicit feedback. | Conduct outreach and engagement. |
| Does it embrace innovation & tech? | Explore cutting-edge solutions. | Research and pilot innovative approaches. |
Quick Answers: Common Questions about Maseeh’s Vision
Q: What does “engineering the big” really mean in practice?
It means looking beyond the immediate project and considering its wider impact on society and the environment. It’s about finding solutions that are sustainable, equitable, and resilient. Think of it as engineering with a purpose – a purpose that extends beyond profit and efficiency.
Q: How can small engineering firms contribute to “engineering the big?”
Even small firms can adopt a systems-thinking approach and prioritize sustainability in their projects. They can also collaborate with other firms and organizations to tackle larger, more complex challenges.
Q: Is “engineering the big” just about big projects?
No, it’s about the way you approach engineering, regardless of the size of the project. Even a small project can have a big impact if it’s designed with sustainability and social equity in mind.
Q: How can I get my company to adopt “engineering the big”?
Start by educating your team about the concept and its importance. Then, identify opportunities to integrate sustainability and systems thinking into your existing projects. Finally, set goals and track your progress to ensure that you’re making a real difference.
From Vision to Reality: A Future Driven by Purpose
Fariborz Maseeh’s vision of “engineering the big” offers a powerful framework for addressing the challenges of the 21st century. It requires a shift in mindset, a commitment to collaboration, and a willingness to embrace innovation. By adopting this approach, engineers can play a crucial role in building a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient world for everyone. His dedication to improving engineering education ensures that future generations have the tools they need to bring this vision to life.