Virginia Tech alumnus Michael J. Mankosa has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering.

Mankosa, one of 84 new members and 22 foreign members, was selected for engineering contributions to the conception, development, design, and application of advanced separation technologies for mineral processing.

Mankosa earned his bachelors, master’s, and doctoral degrees in mining and minerals engineering in 1984, 1986, and 1990, respectively, all from Virginia Tech.

“Throughout his career, Mike has not only exemplified the dedication and ingenuity of an outstanding engineer, but also the character of a leader," said Erik Westman, head of Virginia Tech’s Department of Mining and Minerals Engineering. "Mineral processing and the mining industry have changed significantly for the better due to his efforts.”

As the executive vice president of global technology for Eriez, Mankosa is responsible for all technical aspects of global operations and evaluation of new business opportunities.

Upon completion of his doctoral degree at Virginia Tech, Mankosa was employed as an engineering manager for Carpco Inc. During his tenure at Carpco, Mankosa was responsible for engineering, research, and development efforts, which led to several new process and equipment patents. Mankosa subsequently joined Eriez Magnetics as technical director in 1997. In 2003, Mankosa was promoted to vice president of operations, responsible for research and engineering, information systems, and manufacturing operations for Eriez’ North American operations and served as president of Eriez Flotation Division, Canada.

Mankosa has authored more than 100 articles in scientific and technical journals, obtained 30 equipment and process patents, and received more than $2 million in research funding from various state and federal agencies.

Mankosa is a member of several professional societies, including the American Institute of Mining; Metallurgical and Petroleum Engineers; the Minerals, Metals, and Materials Society; the Instrument Society of America; and the Coal Prep Society of America.

He has received several recognitions during his career, including the American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers Outstanding Young Engineer Award and the Frank Aplan Award for scientific contributions that further the technology of mineral engineering. In 2012, Mankosa was recognized by the mining and minerals engineering department as the Virginia Tech Alumnus of the Year.

Election to the National Academy of Engineering is among the highest professional distinctions accorded to an engineer. Academy membership honors those who have made outstanding contributions to "engineering research, practice, or education, including, where appropriate, significant contributions to the engineering literature" and to "the pioneering of new and developing fields of technology, making major advancements in traditional fields of engineering, or developing/ implementing innovative approaches to engineering education," according to the academy's website.

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