James Collofello

James Collofello is Vice Dean of Academic and Student Affairs at the Fulton Schools of Engineering and a Professor of Computer Science and Software Engineering at Arizona State University. He has held the vice dean position since 2006, overseeing student recruitment, career development, curriculum innovation, and programs like the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) and Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS). His work emphasizes large-scale implementation of programs to enhance student research, leadership, and entrepreneurship skills.

Education:

• Ph.D. Computer Science, Northwestern University (1979)
• M.S. Mathematics, Northern Illinois University (1977)
• B.S. Mathematics, Northern Illinois University (1976)

Research & Expertise: Collofello focuses on software engineering methodologies, software project management, and quality assurance. He collaborates with industry partners like Honeywell, Motorola, and Boeing to address applied research challenges. His educational research includes engineering retention strategies and K-12 outreach programs. Recent grants involve NIST Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships, transportation initiatives, and curriculum development for embedded systems.

Teaching: Frequently teaches courses on software verification/validation, project management, and process quality control (e.g., CSE 565, CSE 566). Supervises practicum and thesis projects through courses like FSE 580 and CSE 799.

Leadership: Manages the Fulton Difference portfolio, including the Grand Challenge Scholars Program and Undergraduate Teaching Assistant program. Coordinates national transportation education initiatives and industry partnerships.