Industrial Advisory Board (IAB)
The Industrial Advisory Board for the Engineering Science program at Stony Brook University plays a vital role in strengthening the connection between academia and industry. Uniquely, the board is comprised entirely of alumni of the Engineering Science undergraduate program, many of whom are also graduates of the Materials Science graduate program. Their combined academic and professional experiences provide valuable insight into both the strengths of the Stony Brook curriculum and the evolving needs of today’s engineering workforce.
Because the board members understand the program firsthand — including the importance of maintaining ABET accreditation standards — they are exceptionally well positioned to provide meaningful guidance on curriculum development, program enhancement, and student preparation. Their expertise helps ensure that the curriculum remains current, innovative, and aligned with emerging industry trends, technological advancements, and academic expectations.
Through mentorship, senior design collaboration, curriculum feedback, and professional guidance, board members help prepare students with the technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills needed for successful careers and advanced study, while continuing to strengthen and advance the Engineering Science program for future generations.
IAB Members
Dr. Shalaka V. Shinde
Shalaka V. Shinde, Ph.D., earned her doctorate in Materials Science and Engineering from Stony Brook University’s Department of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering. She is currently a Project Engineer at Oerlikon Metco, where her work focuses on integrating thermal spray technologies, finite element analysis, and machine learning to develop advanced multilayer functional coatings for aerospace and power-generation turbine applications. Dr. Shinde is recognized for her contributions to elucidating the mechanisms governing coating architecture and performance.
Kevin Beagen
Kevin, a graduate of the Engineering Science program in the Department of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering at Stony Brook University, currently serves as a Project Engineer at Reliacoat. In his role, he works at the intersection of materials research and advanced manufacturing, using process diagnostic sensors to optimize thermal spray coating operations and better understand how processing conditions influence coating performance.
Having transitioned directly from academia into a position that combines research and small-scale production, Kevin brings valuable industry insight into the connection between laboratory innovation and real-world manufacturing. As a member of the Industrial Advisory Board, he continues to give back to the Stony Brook community by mentoring students and supporting senior design projects within the Engineering Science program.
Dr. Gregory Smith
Gregory Smith, Ph.D., P.E., is a Principal Consultant at Rimkus, where he specializes in forensic engineering investigations involving mechanical and materials-related failure analysis. His work supports complex insurance, litigation, and commercial cases through root cause analysis, engineering evaluation, scientific testing, and expert testimony. As both an undergraduate alumnus of the Engineering Science program and a Ph.D. graduate of the Materials Science and Engineering program at Stony Brook University, Greg offers a valuable industry and academic perspective to the Industrial Advisory Board. He remains actively engaged with the Engineering Science program through student mentorship, senior design collaboration, and career guidance for students pursuing research, graduate studies, and professional opportunities. Greg’s continued involvement reflects his dedication to supporting the next generation of engineers and strengthening the Stony Brook community.
Evanna Plakas
Evanna graduated from Stony Brook University in May 2022 with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Science, specializing in Materials Science and Engineering, along with double minors in Engineering & Technology Entrepreneurship and Technological Systems Management. She was also an active participant in the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Program.
Since graduation, Evanna has built a successful career at Parker Hannifin Aerospace as a Quality Engineer, where she works to ensure customer and regulatory compliance across supply chain and production operations. Her responsibilities include leading root cause and corrective action initiatives for both commercial and military aerospace programs across OEM and aftermarket products.
Today, Evanna continues to give back to the Stony Brook community by serving as a member of the Industrial Advisory Board, helping guide and mentor Engineering Science students on industry trends, professional development, and future career growth.