Michelle M. Scherer

Focusing on high-impact outcomes in the realm of civil and environmental engineering, Michelle M. Scherer is a distinguished professor at the University of Iowa. With a commitment to advancing the field, she serves as the director of the Hanson Center for Communication (HCC), where she plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between technical expertise and effective communication. As an environmental engineer, Scherer is dedicated to the mission of providing clean water for all, a testament to her passion for sustainable and impactful engineering solutions. In her academic role, Professor Scherer teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses in technical communication within the College of Engineering. Her courses are designed to equip students with the skills necessary to convey complex technical data to diverse audiences, ensuring that future engineers can effectively advocate for their work and its societal benefits. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes clarity, precision, and the importance of tailoring messages to suit different stakeholders. With over two decades of experience, Scherer has been instrumental in mentoring STEM students, guiding them to articulate their research findings and technical data with confidence and clarity. Her dedication to education and communication has not only enriched the academic experience of her students but has also contributed to the broader engineering community's ability to engage with the public and policymakers. Professor Scherer's work extends beyond the classroom, as she actively collaborates with industry partners and research institutions to develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges. Her leadership at the Hanson Center for Communication underscores her commitment to fostering an environment where technical knowledge and communication skills are seamlessly integrated, ultimately driving progress in civil and environmental engineering.