Dr. Tommy E. White, Ph.D., MBA, is an accomplished executive, educator, inventor, and entrepreneur with more than 35 years of experience at the intersection of engineering innovation, global manufacturing leadership, and higher education. As the President and CEO of the Global Engineering Initiative for International Education, Dr. White champions international collaboration, digital transformation, and education accessibility in engineering. He also serves as an Assistant Professor (Teaching) at Wayne State University, where he has shaped the minds of future engineers for over two decades through instruction, mentorship, and curriculum development.
Dr. White’s multifaceted career includes high-impact roles in several of the world’s leading automotive and defense companies. He began his professional journey as a Staff Research Engineer at General Motors, where he was instrumental in developing some of the company’s earliest smart components, including the power-fold mirror system for the Pontiac Envoy. He later served as Senior Engineering Manager at Navistar, overseeing military ground vehicle design, and as Chief Project Engineer at Fiat Chrysler Automotive, where he led the development of next-generation exterior systems.
A recognized authority in product development, simulation, digital twin technology, program management, and manufacturing systems, Dr. White holds an impressive portfolio of 25 U.S. patents and 33 additional patent applications, underscoring his role as a leading innovator in the field. He has presented his research and insights at major academic and industry conferences and has authored over 10 peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers focused on bottleneck detection, systems simulation, and process optimization.
Driven by a commitment to lifelong learning and global impact, Dr. White holds a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering from Oakland University, an MBA in International Business from the University of Detroit Mercy, an M.S. in Manufacturing Engineering from Wayne State University, and dual bachelor’s degrees in Mechanical Engineering Technology and Business Administration. He is also a Ph.D. student in Engineering Management at Walden University, with his dissertation focused on the impact of continuous improvement in manufacturing performance.
In addition to his academic and professional pursuits, Dr. White is the founder of three technology-based companies: Smart Wear, Optimal Solution, and Z.A.R. Decision Solution, each committed to transforming innovative ideas into real-world impact. He has also contributed to educational governance through prior service on the Wayne State University Engineering Advisory Board.
A proud member of the Engineering Society of Detroit and the National Black MBA Association, Dr. White is passionate about giving back to the engineering and business communities. He is currently leading efforts to establish a Manufacturing Digital Twin Simulation Lab, aiming to bridge industry and academia by fostering hands-on innovation and research opportunities.
Outside of work, Dr. White is an avid runner and cyclist who enjoys weekend rides around Belle Isle Park in Detroit. His personal mission, “If you can think it, you can make it,” embodies the spirit of curiosity, creativity, and perseverance that has guided his life and work.
Dr. White is actively seeking board opportunities where he can bring his extensive industry knowledge, entrepreneurial experience, and educational insight to organizations aiming to grow, innovate, and lead in today’s competitive global landscape.
Character: Dr. Tommy White exemplifies integrity, perseverance, and a strong commitment to mentorship, education, and innovation.
Knowledge: With over 35 years of experience, Dr. White possesses deep technical expertise in engineering systems, manufacturing, product development, and digital twin technologies.
Strategic: He has a proven ability to lead complex programs, launch innovative ventures, and align industry practices with academic advancement to drive global competitiveness.
Communication: Dr. White is an engaging educator and speaker who effectively conveys complex concepts to diverse audiences, inspiring collaboration and intellectual curiosity.
