The Grainger College of Engineering
Industrial & Enterprise Systems Engineering

Announcing the 2026 ISE Distinguished Alumni Award Recipients

3/16/2026

Each year, the Department of Industrial and Enterprise Systems Engineering honors alumni whose careers exemplify the impact of an Illinois ISE education. The 2026 ISE Distinguished Alumni Awards recognize leaders whose achievements span industry, academia  and entrepreneurship—individuals whose work is advancing technology, shaping organizations and strengthening engineering communities around the world. This year’s honorees represent the breadth of the ISE network and the lasting influence of systems thinking in solving complex challenges.

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Each year, the Department of Industrial and Enterprise Systems Engineering honors alumni whose careers exemplify the impact of an Illinois ISE education. The 2026 ISE Distinguished Alumni Awards recognize leaders whose achievements span industry, academia  and entrepreneurship—individuals whose work is advancing technology, shaping organizations and strengthening engineering communities around the world. This year’s honorees represent the breadth of the ISE network and the lasting influence of systems thinking in solving complex challenges.

Read the honorees' full bios here: https://ise.illinois.edu/alumni/alumni-awards/past-awardees#year=2026

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Steven J. Ebbing

ISE Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award BS [GE ’74; MS TAM ’78]

Steven J. Ebbing built a distinguished career in aerospace and manufacturing operations, holding leadership roles with companies including Sundstrand Aerospace and Woodward Aircraft Engine Systems. Throughout his career he championed Lean Six Sigma principles to improve operational performance across global manufacturing organizations. He later founded the ebbing group, LLC, a consulting firm that has trained and mentored professionals in continuous improvement and operational excellence. Ebbing has also dedicated decades to community service, mentorship and leadership in manufacturing organizations.

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Joseph C. Hartman

ISE Alumni Excellence in Academia Award [BS GE ’92]

Joseph C. Hartman will become president of Western New England University in June 2026, following distinguished academic leadership roles, including provost and vice chancellor at the University of Massachusetts Lowell and dean of engineering. An industrial and systems engineer, his research in engineering economic decision analysis and applied optimization has produced more than 100 scholarly publications and earned support from the National Science Foundation and other partners. A Fellow and past president of the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers, Hartman has made lasting contributions to engineering education through teaching, research and leadership.

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James Ehrhart

ISE Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award [BS IE ’87]

James “Jim” Ehrhart built a global career applying systems engineering as an information technology architect at leading corporations, including 28 years with Accenture serving clients across Asia and Europe. Today, he advises several technology startups focused on robotics, drone inspection systems and virtual and augmented reality. A passionate advocate for innovation and exploration, Ehrhart also supports organizations advancing space research and education. His career reflects the global perspective, entrepreneurial leadership and lifelong curiosity fostered through his Illinois ISE education.

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Paul Couston

ISE Young Alumni Excellence Award [BS IE ’20]

Paul Couston is a GovTech entrepreneur focused on developing technology that improves safety and decision-making for warfighters and first responders. He is the co-founder and CEO of WearTAK, a wearable situational awareness platform used by U.S. military branches, federal agencies, and international partners to deliver real-time operational data in high-risk environments. Previously, Couston co-founded energy technology startup Optivolt Labs, securing venture funding and federal contracts to develop solar resilience solutions. His work has been recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30 and the Chicago Innovation Awards.

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This story was published March 16, 2026.