ISE doctoral student presented Lean Engineering Award
Published: Jul 21, 2023 1:45 PM
By Carla Nelson
Minas Pantelidakis, a doctoral student in the Auburn University Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, was recently named the 2023 JT Black Lean Engineering Student of the Year. Tom Devall, director of auto manufacturing initiatives for the department, selected Pantelidakis as the recipient of the award.
Pantelidakis has served as a graduate teaching assistant for the Manufacturing Systems engineering course since the fall of 2021 and has worked closely with students in the Tiger Motors Lab, commonly referred to as the LEGO Lab.
“Minas has contributed his technical skills to the development of LEGO Lab,” Devall said. “His work has helped improve the student experience for Lean Systems.”
Pantelidakis, who is a native of Greece, earned an integrated Master of Electrical and Computer Engineering from the Technical University of Crete in 2020. He said he has always had a problem-solving mindset and remembers building things from a young age.
“What fascinates me most about industrial and systems engineering is its interdisciplinary nature, broad applicability, and the constant pursuit of finding better ways to do things,” he said. “I chose to attend Auburn University because it is a top-level R1 university with an excellent ISE program, remarkable facilities and a thriving student and alumni community. The welcoming nature of the people here has made me feel right at home.”
Pantelidakis’ research covers a wide range of Industry 4.0 topics, such as digital twins, modeling and simulation, Internet of Things, and extended reality. The Interdisciplinary Center for Advanced Manufacturing Systems (ICAMS) has enabled him to explore multiple aspects of the Industry 4.0 transition and broaden his research horizons.
“It has been a very exciting journey,” he said of his time at Auburn. “I have learned a lot and made many friends. Striking the delicate balance between academic pursuits, teaching responsibilities, and research endeavors can sometimes be challenging, but at the same time feels very rewarding.”
He said he believes the ISE faculty strive to deliver the highest quality of education.
“The classes I have taken have been crucial in developing my skills,” he said. “Furthermore, my advisor, Dr. Mykoniatis, plays a key mentorship role in my professional development, enabling me to produce high-quality research and address real-world issues.”
After completing his doctoral studies, Pantelidakis would like to work in academia because he believes educating future generations greatly contributes to society. He would also like to work in industry and help create products that solve important problems.
“What I am certain of is that I want to keep learning and help make the world a better place,” he said.
The JT Black Lean Engineering Student of the Year Award was named in honor of the late JT Black, who gained national recognition for his Lean Manufacturing research, which began in the early '80s before American companies adopted the discipline. The JT Black Lean Engineering Student of The Year exemplifies leadership by demonstrating a deep desire to learn, respect for people and a commitment to continuous improvement.
“It feels great that hard work is recognized,” Pantelidakis said. “This recognition serves as a strong source of motivation, inspiring me to strive even harder in the future. I would like to thank Tom Devall and the entire Lean team for creating an exceptional educational experience in the classroom and the Lego Lab. Their efforts have not only facilitated my learning but also allowed me to perform to the best of my abilities.” Media Contact: , carla@auburn.edu, (334) 844-1404
Minas Pantelidakis, pictured with ISE professors Tom Devall and Konstantinos Mykoniatis, a doctoral student in the Auburn University Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, was recently named the 2023 JT Black Lean Engineering Student of the Year.
