Rate My Professor Matt Jackson

Dr. Matt Jackson is the Dean of the Holland School of Sciences and Mathematics, Professor, and inaugural Director of the Department of Engineering at Hardin-Simmons University. A Professional Engineer (P.E.), he earned a B.S. in 1999 from Wayland Baptist University, followed by an M.S. in 2005 and a Ph.D. in 2007, both in Mechanical Engineering from Texas Tech University. His doctoral dissertation focused on mechanical engineering topics, building on his master's thesis in the same field. Prior to joining Hardin-Simmons University in June 2022, Jackson served as Associate Dean for Engineering in the School of Engineering, Computer Science, and Mathematics, and as the Bell Helicopter Professor of Mechanical Engineering at West Texas A&M University. There, he earned recognition for his stellar teaching record, contributed to national accreditation of engineering programs, and engaged in applied research collaborations, including improvements to plastics manufacturing processes at Pantex with undergraduate students.

At Hardin-Simmons University, Jackson has spearheaded the launch of the mechanical engineering and engineering technology programs starting in fall 2023, overseen the retrofit and expansion of Abilene Hall by 7,000 square feet to include specialized labs for fabrication, materials testing, and thermal/fluids research, and led the dedication of the engineering space. He directs pioneering research in metal additive manufacturing, or metal 3D printing, in partnership with Pantex, a National Nuclear Security Administration facility under the Department of Energy. Initiated six years ago and continued at Hardin-Simmons since 2022, this project—now in its fourth phase—addresses the field's low 80% success rate for printed parts in high-consequence applications by deploying optical sensors to detect real-time anomalies and developing novel computational methods to predict and mitigate defects, a unique approach not replicated elsewhere. Supported by over $1 million in advanced equipment and a recent $750,000 funding award over 18 months, the work provides Hardin-Simmons students with practical experience in cutting-edge technology. Under Jackson's leadership, the university prepares to graduate its first cohort of engineering students in 2025, advancing engineering education within a Christian academic mission.