Wagner

Michigan Tech’s president Richard Koubek appointed Scott Wagner as the next faculty athletics representative on June 17. Wagner is also the associate chair and associate professor in Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology at Michigan Technological University.

“We appreciate Scott assuming the role of faculty athletics representative for Michigan Tech,” said Koubek about Wagner’s new position. “His passion for the success of our student-athletes, in the classroom and on the field, will be a great asset to the university community.” 

VP for Athletics and Recreation Suzanne Sanregret said she was, “excited to welcome Scott as the next faculty athletic representative at Michigan Tech.” Sanregret said the position is important and valued by staff, coaches, and student-athletes.

“As a Tech alum, Scott knows the academic challenges our student-athletes face and will offer a great perspective for us to continue to improve their experiences as Huskies,” Sanregret said. “I look forward to working with Scott to continue communication between our athletic programs and academic departments.”

Wagner is eager and ready to take on the new role.

“As an instructor and former athlete, I see both sides, and I truly understand the importance of this position,” he said in a recent press release. “I am honored to be selected for this opportunity, and I am excited to serve the university and the student-athletes as Michigan Tech’s Faculty Athletics Representative.” 

Wagner has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering-engineering mechanics from Michigan Tech. He also earned a master’s degree in manufacturing operations at Kettering University. Wagner’s expertise and skills are in facility maintenance, plant engineering, manufacturing systems analysis, and metal forming. Outside of the classroom, Wagner is involved in the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the American Foundry Society, and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. He is on the Presidential Committee for University Safety Advisory Council, and dedicates time as a volunteer firefighter, and is a member of the Michigan State Firemen’s association. 

As faculty athletics representative, or FAR, Wagner will play a role in ensuring the academic integrity of the intercollegiate athletics program, facilitate institutional control of intercollegiate athletics, and help to enhance the student-athlete experience at Michigan Tech. The FAR is also responsible for representing Michigan Tech and its faculty in the school’s relationship with the NCAA. Wagner will also use the role to provide leadership in the governance of Tech’s intercollegiate athletics programs and represent the president–in terms of academic and student-athlete matters–to the athletic department and Tech’s faculty members. 

Wagner will join the list of distinguished past FARs, including Joel Tuoriniemi (2020-2023, College of Business-Accounting), Bill Sproule (2010-2020, Civil and Environmental Engineering), and Pat Joyce (1999-2010, Business Administration).