Clarence Smith Jr.

Clarence Smith Jr. is a Senior Lecturer Emeritus at North Carolina State University's Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE), part of the College of Engineering. He joined NC State in 1978 as the inaugural ISE extension specialist and became the first assistant department head in 1984, serving until his retirement in 2010. Over his career, he advised approximately 4,000 graduates, representing 80% of all BSIE graduates since the program's inception in 1931.

Education:

• BSIE, Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering, NC State University (1969)
• MSIE, Master of Science in Industrial Engineering, NC State University (1983)

Research and Contributions: Smith's work emphasized academic advising, industrial engineering education, and workforce development. His legacy includes shaping the ISE program through mentorship and extension services.

Awards:

• 2005 C.A. Anderson Outstanding Faculty Award
• 2005 Outstanding Extension Award
• 1985 Alumni Association Distinguished Undergraduate Professorship
• 1980 Fellow, Institute of Industrial Engineers Phil Carroll Award

Post-Retirement Roles: He has served on the North Carolina State Board of Refrigeration Examiners (Chair in 2016, 1996, and 2010) and the Piedmont Community College Board of Trustees (2017–2021).