Virgilio Gonzalez

Virgilio Ernesto Gonzalez is a Professor of Practice and Associate Chair in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). His research focuses on Applied Communications Networks, Cyber-Physical Systems, and Engineering Education. He has extensive industry experience in Telecommunications and IT management. Gonzalez's work includes developing wireless testbeds for 5G systems, fiber optic sensors for structural health monitoring, and autonomous drone collision avoidance. He also integrates mobile computing and robotics into engineering education to improve student retention.

His research interests span telecommunications infrastructure, smart networks, and educational technology. Notable projects include collaborations with the US Army on cybersecurity skills training and the analysis of mobile technology's impact on STEM education. Gonzalez has published extensively on topics such as intrusion detection systems, hybrid decision-making models, and the transition from online to in-person laboratory sessions.

In education, he redesigns engineering curricula to incorporate modern technologies and has led initiatives like PDA-based telemedicine systems and virtual communication laboratories. His work emphasizes bridging theoretical knowledge with practical applications, particularly in border regions. Gonzalez actively engages in outreach programs like FIRST Robotics to encourage minority student participation in STEM fields.