Robert G. Wilhelm, Ph.D., is Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development and Kate Foster Professor of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. An expert in precision engineering and advanced manufacturing, his career began at Cincinnati Milacron, the Rockwell Science Center and his own advanced manufacturing company. Since then, Wilhelm has held faculty positions focused on creating Ph.D. programs in areas like information technology and physical and optical science and academic leadership roles dedicated to nurturing and growing innovation. A hallmark of his career is an intentional commitment to advancing research and discovery through close, strategic connections with academic programs and regional and national partners. Wilhelm serves on many regional, national, and international advisory boards and is past trustee and collections board chair for the Mint Museum of Craft and Design. He is a Fellow of the International Academy for Production Engineering and the National Academy of Inventors.