Curtis Cox, a senior vice president and director of engineering and innovation at Sargent & Lundy, has been elected to the Board of Trustees at Illinois Institute of Technology. Cox, who holds both bachelor's and master's degrees in electrical engineering from Illinois Tech, brings more than 20 years of experience in engineering leadership to the board.
Cox began his career at Sargent & Lundy as an electrical engineer in 2004 and advanced through several roles including discipline manager for electrical and instrumentation and controls engineering, project manager, and program manager for major clients and energy projects. His work has focused on identifying modernization opportunities and leading continuous improvement initiatives within the company.
“I am truly honored to join the Illinois Tech Board of Trustees,” said Cox. “Illinois Tech gave me the knowledge and opportunities to help build my career, and I’m excited to give back to the community in this new role. I look forward to supporting the university’s commitment to hands-on learning and industry collaboration, mirroring real-world challenges and preparing our students to transform ideas that could change the world into breakthroughs that will change the world.”
Illinois Tech President Raj Echambadi welcomed Cox’s appointment by stating, “I’m honored to welcome Curtis Cox to our board. Curtis’ leadership in energy innovation and his deep dedication to mentoring future engineers reflects Illinois Tech’s mission to empower purpose-driven innovators. His professional excellence, combined with his commitment to giving back to his community and alma mater, embodies the very spirit of our university.”
In addition to his professional responsibilities, Cox has maintained a strong connection with Illinois Tech as an adjunct professor. He participated in programs such as the Ed Kaplan Family Institute for Innovation and Tech Entrepreneurship’s Interprofessional Project (IPRO), which gives students practical experience solving industry problems. As a representative for Sargent & Lundy, he mentored students working on real-world projects.
Michael P. Galvin, chair of the Illinois Tech Board of Trustees, commented on Cox’s selection: “Curtis Cox represents the best of Illinois Tech—an accomplished engineer, dedicated mentor and educator, and community leader who leverages his insight for the benefit of others. His leadership and passion for innovation will be a tremendous asset to the Illinois Tech community.”
Illinois Institute of Technology is based in Chicago and is recognized as a tech-focused university offering undergraduate and graduate degrees across multiple disciplines including engineering, computing, architecture, business, design, science, human sciences, and law. The university emphasizes hands-on experiences through its Elevate program.
For further information about Illinois Institute of Technology or its programs visit iit.edu.