The 2026 ME Golden Gear of Excellence Awards

The Department of Mechanical Engineering is excited to recognize two individuals for the 2026 Golden Gear of Excellence Awards – Glenn Bower and Caitlin Scott! This award highlights one non-tenure track instructor and one administrative staff member for going above and beyond in their work. Both Caitlin and Glenn were nominated and voted to receive this award by department faculty and staff. This recognition celebrates both individuals’ commitment to strengthening our department and enhancing the student experience.

Non-Tenure Track Instructor Winner

Glenn Bower is an Associate Teaching Professor and has been with the department since 1992. First, as a post doc and scientist with the Engine Research Center, and then as an instructor beginning in 1997. Glenn has taught a wide range of courses for the department (more than 15) and has played a huge role in the success and growth of our cars competition teams. Glenn’s level of support for all students, as well as his contributions to the department and college as a whole, truly exceeds expectations.

When asked what his favorite part of his job is, Glenn shared, “I enjoy seeing the enthusiasm and pride from the students at their respective competitions. Even in years when their designs are not competitive, the students still think they have the best car and can win. Sharing the celebration when UW teams win their competition is also very memorable; 22 different teams have captured international championships.

Advising the automotive teams parallels the skills necessary to advise senior design teams; the teams are usually only one member, but they always challenge you sooner or later.

Ultimately, having fun while learning!”

Big congratulations to Glenn for this well-deserved recognition!

Administrative Staff Member Winner

Caitlin Scott is the department’s Communication Specialist and has been in her position since Spring of 2022. Over the last four years, Caitlin has played an instrumental role in highlighting and celebrating the success of our faculty and students. She has a reputation of being reliable, positive, and collaborative. Communication specialists tend to wear a lot of hats in supporting and broadcasting department initiatives, and Caitlin’s wide-range of skills and can-do attitude make her an invaluable asset to the team.

When asked what she enjoys about her work, she explained, “I enjoy the opportunity to work with so many different members of the ME Department, from brand new undergrads excited about their first research project to world renowned professors securing yet another meaningful grant award. It’s exciting to watch new faculty members assemble their research environments and then get to brag about their achievements over time. So many amazing things happen in the ME research labs, and I love getting to shine a light on that brilliance! ”

Thank you Caitlin for all that you do!

As one of the larger engineering departments in the College of Engineering at UW-Madison, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our administrative staff and teaching faculty! Your hard work and dedication to our community and the student experience does not go unnoticed.