Paul Cotnoir

Paul Cotnoir is the Dean of the Becker School of Design & Technology and a Professor of Practice at Clark University. He holds a Ph.D. in Manufacturing Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), along with M.S. and B.S. degrees in Mechanical Engineering from WPI. Prior to Clark, he served at Becker College (now part of Clark) for nearly 20 years in roles including associate dean, program director, and leader of the interactive media program. His leadership expanded the interactive media program from 12 to 600 students, earning national recognition, including a No. 2 global ranking in 2021 by the Princeton Review.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Manufacturing Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 2010
• M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 1988
• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 1983

His research and professional interests span interactive media, game design, robotics, workforce development, and STEM education. He pioneered programs like the MFA in Interactive Media, eSports Management, and STEM-focused game design initiatives for underserved youth. He co-founded the statewide Mass DiGI initiative to advance digital gaming in Massachusetts. His expertise in manufacturing engineering and economic development further informs his work in bridging academia with industry needs.

Though no specific articles are listed, his contributions focus on educational innovation, program development, and applied technology in design and technology fields. He has advised numerous academic initiatives but no student names are provided in available texts. His grants and funding activities are tied to program expansions and community outreach, though specific grants are not detailed here.

He leads the Becker School’s interdisciplinary teams, emphasizing experiential learning and industry partnerships. Current priorities include expanding STEM access through summer programs and advancing applied design education.