G. Don Taylor

G. Don Taylor is the Executive Vice Provost at Virginia Tech and holds the Charles O. Gordon Professorship in Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE). He has been affiliated with Virginia Tech since 2004, previously serving as Head of the Grado Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (2004–2016) and Interim Dean of the College of Engineering (2016). Prior to his current administrative roles, he held the Mary Lee and George F. Duthie Endowed Chair in Engineering Logistics and directed the Center for Engineering Logistics and Distribution at the University of Louisville.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Industrial Engineering and Operations Research, University of Massachusetts (1990)
  • M.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Texas at Arlington (1985)
  • B.S., Industrial Engineering, University of Texas at Arlington (1983)

Dr. Taylor’s research focuses on the simulation and optimization of complex systems, logistics of material flow, freight transportation, and supply chain management. His work spans theoretical and applied domains, addressing challenges from factory-level materials handling to transportation dispatching and routing. He has contributed extensively to academic literature, with over 75 journal articles and book chapters, and has led or co-led more than 60 externally funded research projects.

Recent publications highlight his expertise in freight logistics, clustering techniques for distribution, and innovative delivery system designs. These works emphasize practical applications in truckload transportation, barge-to-boat assignment, and inventory service level optimization, reflecting a blend of theoretical rigor and industry relevance.

• Significant Awards:
  • IISE Albert G. Holzman Distinguished Educator Award (2018)
  • University of Massachusetts Amherst Outstanding Alumni Award (2015)
  • Fellow of the World Academy of Productivity Science (2010)
  • Fellow of the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE) (2006)

Dr. Taylor has played pivotal roles in academic leadership, including Chairperson of the Board of IISE Solutions, Inc., and past president-elect of IISE. His scholarly output and professional leadership underscore his commitment to advancing productivity science and industrial engineering education.