Sargent & Lundy Senior Vice President and Director of Engineering and Innovation Curtis Cox has been elected to the Illinois Institute of Technology’s board of trustees, a role that deepens the long-standing relationship between the global engineering firm and the university. The three-year term began Oct. 16.
The position holds great personal and professional meaning for Cox, an Illinois Tech alumnus.
“I’m honored to be elected to my alma mater’s board of trustees,” Cox said. “This opportunity allows me to give back to an institution that’s profoundly shaped my career and personal growth. I hope to positively impact future students pursuing careers in engineering and related fields.”
As Cox joins the board, one of his priorities is to support the university’s enrollment efforts. “Enrollment is a key challenge for all higher education institutions across the country,” Cox noted. “Illinois Tech must find innovative ways to thrive despite these challenges.”
His vision for the university’s growth over the next five years focuses on enhancing its already strong programs in power and energy.
“Illinois Tech’s power and energy program stands among the best in the country,” Cox stated. “As the energy sector continues to evolve and grow, Sargent & Lundy’s business will also expand, creating increased demand for skilled talent. I envision the university continuing to enhance and innovate within these disciplines to meet industry needs and global challenges.”
Sargent & Lundy and Illinois Tech have a strong bond; former Sargent & Lundy CEO Bud Wendorf served as chairman of the board from 2013-2018. As a major employer of Illinois Tech graduates in the Chicagoland area, the firm is uniquely positioned to benefit the university and the broader industry.
Cox’s new role will allow him to significantly strengthen the talent pipeline between the institution and the firm. He plans to deepen the relationship by creating more mentorship opportunities for students, serving as a judge in technical competitions, and fostering partnerships that enable Sargent & Lundy employees to benefit from educational programs at the university. Further, Cox will have the opportunity to keep Sargent & Lundy connected to cutting-edge academic research.
Cox will continue active involvement on the Kaplan Institute’s board of advisors, the university’s innovation and entrepreneurship hub, on which he’s served for the past two years. This advisory role, which involves assisting with fundraising and connecting the institute with industry partners, complements his new trustee position.
Sargent & Lundy highly values leadership that contributes positively to the communities where its employees live and work and appreciates the importance these civic and academic leadership roles hold.