Contact: James Carskadon

CANTON, Miss.—Tonya G. McCall is now leading a Mississippi State University center that supports the state’s manufacturing industry.

McCall began her duties as director of MSU’s Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems Extension following the retirement of former director Glenn Dennis in late June. McCall brings 25 years of combined engineering experience in the aerospace, plant construction, home appliance and automotive industries. She previously served as associate director for CAVS Extension, which has created a $6.2 billion economic impact in Mississippi since 2006.

“Tonya is well-prepared to lead the excellent team at CAVS Extension as the center continues to make a substantial impact for Mississippi’s manufacturing sector,” said MSU Vice President for Research and Economic Development Julie Jordan. “Her expertise and management skills will be a strong asset as manufacturers navigate the many challenges and opportunities that come with advancements in industrial technology.

“I also would like to thank Glenn Dennis for his many lasting contributions to CAVS Extension during his tenure, and wish him a happy retirement.”

McCall has held various positions at CAVS Extension since 2015 as she led engineering design projects, taught professional development courses, led research teams and managed applied research projects.

“I am truly honored and excited about the opportunity to direct the future efforts of the MSU CAVS Extension center,” McCall said. “Our organization provides a vital service to both the manufacturing and healthcare industries as we work to help them improve and expand their business activities.  I am looking forward to continuing to steer our services in a direction that aligns with the ever-changing needs of our industrial communities and working with our industry and academic partners to introduce emerging technologies to address the complexities of our manufacturing systems.”

Prior to joining MSU, McCall worked in the private sector for companies such as Nissan North America and Viking Range Corporation. She is a two-time graduate of Louisiana Tech University, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in industrial and systems engineering from MSU.

Based in Canton, CAVS Extension serves as the outreach arm of the CAVS research facility located on MSU’s Starkville campus. CAVS Extension helps meet the needs of Mississippi’s manufacturers by providing technical expertise, industry-focused professional development, and on-site project support in the areas of product and process improvement. U.S. Department of Commerce data shows the center has supported the creation or retention of more than 6,000 jobs.

MSU is Mississippi’s leading university, available online at www.msstate.edu.