About the Engineering Program

Mission and Vision

Engineering is the application of science and mathematics to solve problems using design and innovation. The Engineering program combines technical skills with Butler’s liberal arts foundation, creating human-centered engineers who are ready to join the workforce in an every-changing and diverse setting.

We currently offer majors in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Bioengineering.

Vision

Butler University will become a leader in interdisciplinary engineering education, developing innovative programs and pathways that expand our positive impact and strategically address the critical STEM challenges and opportunities in Indiana.

Mission

Our mission at Butler University’s Engineering program is to develop well-rounded, technically proficient engineers through a liberal-arts, competency-based curriculum. We aim to cultivate a diverse community of problem-solvers by integrating foundational knowledge, hands-on experience, and ethical decision-making. Emphasizing creativity, communication, and collaboration, our program prepares students to tackle complex societal and technological challenges with purpose and adaptability. Through innovative teaching methods and real-world project experiences, we are committed to graduating engineers who are not only skilled and capable, but also community-minded and dedicated to life-long learning, professional growth, and responsible global citizenship.

Meet the Program Director

Jeff Carvell is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Engineering at Butler University, where he leads a program focused on hands-on, experiential, and competency-based learning. His work emphasizes innovation, professional growth, and human-centered design, and he has guided curriculum development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the integration of industry-relevant skills across engineering coursework. He earned his Ph.D. in Physics from Purdue University and brings extensive experience in engineering education, curriculum assessment, and accreditation, including an ABET certificate in Program Assessment, Design, and Development. His expertise includes digital fabrication, CAD/CAM design, and engineering for manufacturability, and he’s deeply committed to student mentorship—engaging students in research, design projects, and internships that bridge classroom learning with real-world application.

Contact Info
Phone: 317-940-4801
Email: jcarvell@butler.edu
Office: LFH 341A

Learn more about Jeff Carvell’s background and vision for Butler Engineering.

Facilities

Butler University provides engineering students with access to a broad range of modern facilities designed to support hands-on learning, design, and research. The Engineering program features two dedicated engineering laboratories and a fully equipped machine shop where students gain practical experience in fabrication, prototyping, and experimental testing. These spaces are complemented by shared, state-of-the-art laboratories in physics, chemistry, biochemistry, and biology, giving engineering students access to interdisciplinary resources across the sciences.

In addition to Butler’s main university library, engineering students benefit from a dedicated science library located within the same building as the engineering facilities. This specialized library supports coursework, research, and project work, providing convenient access to technical resources tailored to students in science and engineering disciplines.

The program is continually expanding its technical capabilities. Current and upcoming equipment includes 3D printers, a wind tunnel, tabletop CNC machines, a laser cutter, mechanical testing and mechanics apparatus, control systems hardware, and experiments in fluids and thermodynamics, among others. Students also work extensively with industry-standard software and simulation tools such as SolidWorks, ANSYS, LabVIEW, and additional engineering analysis platforms.

Together, these facilities and resources create a dynamic learning environment where Butler engineering students can design, build, test, and innovate in preparation for successful professional careers.

Accreditation

Each Engineering major is preparing to seek accreditation by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. Butler University will seek accreditation as soon as allowed by ABET.