Congratulations to Clara Fang, professor and chair of the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Biomedical Engineering in the College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture (CETA), being named a finalist for the 2025 Women of Innovation Award in the category of Academic Innovation and Leadership – Post-Secondary.
Hosted by the Connecticut Technology Council, the annual award celebrates scientists, researchers, educators, entrepreneurs, and leaders who are advancing innovation and inspiring the next generation of STEM talent across the state. Fang is among a select group of finalists chosen from nearly 100 nominations statewide. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Tuesday, Oct. 28.
Fang is internationally recognized for her pioneering research in applying artificial intelligence and advanced computational methods to improve infrastructure resilience and safety. Her work, funded by the Connecticut Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration, includes groundbreaking deep learning models for predicting bridge performance and simulation data-driven tools for roundabout study. These projects not only push the boundaries of engineering research but also elevate the University of Hartford’s role in solving real-world challenges.
Equally central to Fang’s career is her dedication to mentoring. She has guided undergraduate and graduate students through high-impact, externally funded research, co-authored peer-reviewed publications with them, and helped prepare them for professional success. She also co-directs outreach programs such as the Transportation & Civil Engineering Summer Camp, which welcomed 42 high school students to campus this past summer to explore engineering through hands-on projects, workshops, and insights from faculty, alumni, and industry professionals.
“Mentoring has been a cornerstone of my career,” Fang shared. “Seeing students succeed, contribute to meaningful projects, and discover their potential is one of the most rewarding parts of my work, and it drives me to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation in engineering.”
Through her research, teaching, and mentorship, Fang embodies the spirit of innovation and leadership that the Women of Innovation Awards seek to honor.