Mary Viola

Promoting critical thinking in engineering management, Mary Viola is a distinguished Professor of the Practice Emerita at the School of Engineering, Tufts University. With a rich career dedicated to advancing the field of engineering education, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the curriculum for both undergraduate and graduate students at the Tufts Gordon Institute. Her expertise lies in designing courses that emphasize leadership and innovation, equipping students with the skills necessary to excel in today's dynamic technological landscape. Mary Viola's teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in her extensive industry experience. Before her tenure at Tufts, she spent two decades at Polaroid Corporation, where she held significant leadership roles, including Director of Research and Development and Plant Manager for Worldwide Chemical Operations. Her tenure at Polaroid was marked by her successful efforts in reducing the cycle time of business processes, demonstrating her ability to drive efficiency and innovation in high-pressure environments. In addition to her academic contributions, Viola has shared her knowledge and insights with numerous Fortune 500 companies in the high-tech sector. Her work with these organizations underscores her commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that her students receive an education that is both theoretically robust and practically applicable. Mary Viola's dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and leadership extends beyond the classroom. She is actively involved in mentoring students and young professionals, guiding them as they navigate their careers in engineering and management. Her approach to mentorship is informed by her own experiences, providing invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the engineering field. Throughout her career, Viola has been recognized for her contributions to engineering education and her ability to inspire the next generation of leaders. Her work continues to influence the way engineering management is taught and practiced, making a lasting impact on both her students and the broader engineering community.