Fernando Gonzalez

Fernando Gonzalez, Ph.D., is Chair and Professor in the Department of Computing and Software Engineering at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), part of the U.A. Whitaker College of Engineering. He holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois (1997), an MS in Electrical Engineering from Florida International University (1992), and a BS in Computer Science from the same institution (1989). Prior roles include faculty positions at the University of Central Florida and Texas A&M International University, as well as research at Los Alamos National Laboratory.

His research focuses on intelligent systems, including semantic web agents, autonomous systems control, discrete-event simulation, and human signature verification. He has pioneered educational robotics tools, cyberphysical systems curricula, and interdisciplinary STEM initiatives. His work emphasizes practical applications in K-12 education, embedded systems security, and IoT integration.

Dr. Gonzalez has developed innovative robotics simulators and lab infrastructure, integrating remote access for online learning. His contributions span over 40 publications since 1990, reflecting expertise in systems engineering, autonomous vehicles, and pedagogical innovation.

His academic leadership includes departmental chairmanship since 2022 and curriculum development for software engineering programs. Key projects include FAST learning methodologies and robotics-based outreach programs to enhance STEM education accessibility.