Graduate School dean named as chair of Department of Mechanical Engineering
Published: Jun 30, 2025 12:55 PM
By Jeremy Henderson
George Flowers has been named as the new chair of Auburn University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, according to an announcement by Mario Eden, dean of engineering.
Flowers, a mechanical engineering professor who has served as dean of Auburn University's Graduate School since 2008, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He earned his mechanical engineering degree from Auburn in 1984, followed by master's and doctoral degrees from Georgia Tech in 1985 and 1988, respectively. Before joining Auburn’s faculty in 1990 as an assistant professor, he served on the mechanical engineering faculty at the University of South Florida from 1988-90. He achieved the rank of full professor at Auburn in 2002 before his appointment as dean of the Graduate School in 2008.
His research expertise spans dynamics, vibration and control, with a focus on electronics packaging and electrical contacts. Flowers is a fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, an associate fellow in the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and has served in multiple leadership roles in both ASME and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). He was the recipient of the IEEE 2024 Ragnar Holm Scientific Achievement Award for outstanding achievements in the field of electrical contacts.
As dean of the Graduate School, Flowers has shaped the administrative and policy decisions for all graduate and professional programs across the university.
"Dr. Flowers' leadership has been instrumental in advancing graduate education at the university, and we’re excited to see him do the same for the Department of Mechanical Engineering," Eden said. "His extensive experience as a professor also provides him with a unique and valuable perspective that will undoubtedly foster innovation and excellence. He is the ideal leader to guide the department into its next chapter of success."
Flowers will succeed Jeff Suhling, the Quina Distinguished Professor, who is returning to the faculty after leading the department since 2008.
Eden extended his gratitude to Suhling for his dedicated service to the department.
"The Department of Mechanical Engineering wouldn't be what it is today without Dr. Suhling's exceptional leadership," Eden said. "His vision and efforts over the past 16 years have significantly advanced the department's research, teaching and outreach efforts. While we will miss his leadership as chair, we are excited to see him return to his passion for teaching and research while continuing to directly impact our students."
Flowers will officially assume his new duties Oct. 1.
