Dr. Karl Olsen
Dr. Karl Olsen

Karl Olsen, clinical assistant professor in the Civil Engineering Department at Washington State University, will receive the annual President’s Distinguished Teaching Award for Non-tenure Track Faculty.

Dr. Olsen is an instructor for the Integrated Design Experience (IDX) course. Additional instructors include Tammi Laninga and Michelle Vachon. IDX has partnered with NARA and northwest stakeholders to evaluate supply chain scenarios that could be used to produce bio-jet fuel from post harvest forest residuals (slash). Their supply chain work is archived and provides valuable information to the emerging industry. In addition, the course provides undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to work with industry and provide real solutions.

Award selection criteria include: igniting a passion for learning; employing innovative mentoring and teaching techniques; valuing and responding to diversity; increasing students’ intellectual growth, critical thinking and integrated views; and organizing/conducting new courses or revitalizing existing ones. Learn more about the award at https://faculty.wsu.edu/awards/presidents-distinguished-teaching-award-for-non-tenure-track-faculty/.