Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation names Melissa Bilec as new co-director

Melissa Bilec, William Kepler Whiteford professor of civil and environmental engineering in Pitt’s Swanson School of Engineering, has been appointed co-director of the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation. Eric Beckman, her predecessor and Distinguished Service Professor of chemical and petroleum engineering, will step into a new role as director emeritus and chief of innovation and translation. Gena Kovalcik will continue to serve as co-director of administration and external relations for the center.

Bilec is a triple-alumna of Pitt, having earned her bachelor’s, master’s and PhD from Pitt’s Swanson School of Engineering. She is nationally and internationally recognized for her expertise in circular economy, life cycle assessment, energy assessment (especially within underserved communities), high-performance buildings and experiential learning.

“Sustainability has been integral to my teaching and research career, and so I am honored to carry on the incredible legacies that Jack, Eric and Gena established,” Bilec said.

Read more about the appointment at the Swanson School’s website.