Rick Williams announced as director of Nuclear Power Generation Systems program

Rick Williams, a mechanical engineering faculty member, has been named director of Auburn University’s Nuclear Power Generation Systems program, according to an announcement by Christopher B. Roberts, dean of engineering.

Rick Williams

He will succeed Bill Goodwin, who is retiring from the College of Engineering effective Dec. 31. Williams' appointment will be effective in January.

A Georgia Tech graduate with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering, Williams earned the doctorate in mechanical engineering from Auburn. He is a graduate of the U.S. Navy’s Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, and has taught courses for the NPGS program for the past three years.

“I appreciate the opportunities I have had to help build the Nuclear Power Generation Systems program, and am confident Rick’s leadership will elevate the program to new heights,” Goodwin said. “I look forward to the continued growth of the program under his direction.”

Goodwin served as the program’s director for the past six years. Before joining the College of Engineering, he served as a naval officer for 35 years, retiring as rear admiral in 2010. His decorations include the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal, Navy Commendation Medal and Navy Achievement Medal. Goodwin was the first commanding officer of the USS Ronald Reagan.

“Bill has been a tremendous asset to the College of Engineering,” said Dean Roberts. “He not only helped bring our program to new levels, but served as a trusted advisor as well. I appreciate his service, and look forward to working with Rick to expand the Nuclear Power Generation Systems program.”

The mission of the NPGS program is to educate and prepare Auburn Engineering students for careers in the commercial nuclear power generation industry.