Dr. William Gillis III, assistant teaching professor of civil, architectural, and environmental engineering, is now the primary advisor of the S&T student chapter of Engineers Without Borders (EWB).

Gillis has been active in EWB activities since 2016. He traveled with the team to Bolivia in 2017, advising primarily on water distribution, and secondarily, for a suspension bridge. He has been a professional member of EWB-USA since 2017.

Gillis brings several credentials to the role, including a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a Ph.D. in engineering management. Most of the courses he teaches require a team project, including the senior design capstone. He teaches courses specific to construction, design and project management. Gillis holds several certifications beyond his academic credentials, including LEED AP BD+C and project management professional (PMP), as well as holding the professional engineer (PE) license.

“We are fortunate to have expertise like Bill’s on campus, and his dedication to students will help them get the most from their experience, as well as ensure that the projects are managed effectively,” says Dr. Chris Ramsay, director of the Student Design and Experiential Learning Center.

The Missouri S&T student chapter of Engineers Without Borders is a large team, with around 100 members at any given time, working on four projects in Central and South America.

“EWB advising requires extensive work with the students and knowledge of construction and engineering,” says Dr. Kathy Northcut, interim vice provost of academic support. “However, with such a large organization, the primary advisor will also be involved with fundraising, project management and communications locally, all aimed toward the success of critical humanitarian projects in Latin America. Dr. Gillis is uniquely suited to this role, and I am excited to see what the future holds for EWB.”