Ivana Milanovic, PhD, Professor of Mechanical, Aerospace, and Acoustical Engineering at the College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture, was recently awarded the 2023 Women of Innovation Award in the Academic Innovation and Leadership category. The recognition was awarded at the 18th Annual Women of Innovation Awards hosted by CT Tech Council.
Milanovic began working at the University of Hartford in 2001, and since has consistently demonstrated a passion for supporting students throughout their academic journey. One of her most notable contributions was helping to develop CETA’s turbomachinery lab with the support of 16 undergraduate students and four graduate students over the span of four years. She also introduced and implemented the Ansys certification program into one of the mechanical engineering courses. This program allows students enrolled in to engage in hands-on simulation workshops and trainings to become ANSYS certified. Learn more about Milanovic's experience from the WTNH interview found here.
Sheryl O’Connor, CEO of WealthConductor LLC, Vice President of the Connecticut Technology Council, and chair of the 2023 Women of Innovation committee, shared kind regards about Milanovic in a LinkedIn post, writing “Ivana acts as a mentor for women in #engineering through the Dorothy Goodwin Scholars program at the university. Elected as a Fellow in ASME (The American Society of Mechanical Engineers) in 2019, she has been recognized for her dedication to her students and innovation in #STEM education.”
Milanovic was also accompanied by Paul Slaboch, PhD, chair of the Mechanical, Aerospace, and Acoustical Engineering Department.