91¶ÌÊÓƵ

Dr. Brian Rague serves as the Dean of the College of Engineering, Applied Science and Technology (EAST) at 91¶ÌÊÓƵ (91¶ÌÊÓƵ). A faculty member of 91¶ÌÊÓƵ’s Computer Science program since 2003, Brian has held several leadership positions at Weber State including Associate Dean of EAST, Department Chair of the School of Computing, Faculty Senate Chair, founder and Director of the Computer Literacy Center, founder and Director of the Data Science Research Center, and interim Dept. Chair for Construction and Building Sciences. Inevitable and rapid change in how we interact with ongoing and evolving technologies are the primary motivators for Dr. Rague’s goal to improve and expand student learning opportunities and career pathways.

He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), a Master’s degree in Aeronautics and Astronautics from MIT, and a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University of Utah. He also brings industry experience and connections from working on various NASA projects, including satellite earth observing missions at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. His research interests include data science, algorithm design, formal analysis, parallel computing, programming languages, and opportunities for creative software engineering in the fields of education, biomedicine and physics.  His recent book, co-authored with Dr. Robert Ball, is The Beginner’s Guide to Data Science. At 91¶ÌÊÓƵ, Brian was the recipient of the John S. Hinckley Fellow Award for exceptional contributions in teaching, scholarship, and service and the Faculty Governance Award for Outstanding Contributions to Faculty Governance.

Dr. Rague recognizes the various avenues by which students can access and acquire expertise, most especially in the engineering, computer science, and applied technology disciplines offered by EAST. He has designed and implemented innovative pathways including stackable credentials, which give students usable knowledge they can accumulate and count toward certifications or a degree, and apprenticeships,  which allow students to earn an income and solidify employer relationships, while simultaneously learning essential skillsets. Dr. Rague continues to develop and emphasize all the different ways we can train our workforce and provide individuals with enduring and fulfilling careers.