MU Extension appoints business development program director

COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension and the MU College of Engineering have named a new business development program director effective April 8. As the Program Director and Assistant Dean for the College of Engineering, Steven L. Devlin comes to MU Extension after serving Iowa State University Extension and Outreach’s Center for Industrial Research and Service for 13 years.

Devlin’s appointment follows an extensive national search for a leader capable of facilitating extension’s business development collaborations with public and private entities at all levels, including state and federal agencies.

“Steve Devlin brings an excellent and unique skillset to extension that will allow our highly successful business development programs to make an even greater impact for Missouri’s business community,” said Vice Provost and Director of Cooperative Extension Michael Ouart. “I have great confidence in Steve and look forward to the visionary leadership and creativity he will bring to our business development programs.”

Devlin’s experience at Iowa State University encompassed work as program director for ISU’s manufacturing extension partnerships (MEP), industrial project management in the area of biobased products, and industrial design. He also facilitated communications between federal, state and foreign agencies, manufacturers, consultants and testing organizations.

Prior to his extension experience at Iowa State, Devlin worked as an engineering analyst and product designer for Deere Incorporated from 1996 to 1999. He served as an office manager and training coordinator for Drafting Works from 1995 to 1996 and held positions in the field of drafting and construction from 1982 through 1993.

Devlin served in the U.S. Army and the Missouri and Iowa National Guard from 1986 to 1997. His duties included service as radio team chief, staff sergeant-section sergeant and service staff sergeant-training instructor.

Devlin holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial science from Truman State University and a master’s degree in industrial technology from Iowa State University. He is completing a doctorate in industrial education and technology at Iowa State University. 

Using research-based knowledge, University of Missouri Extension engages people to understand change, solve problems and make informed decisions. Through programs in every county of Missouri, publications and Web-based services, extension faculty continue to carry the benefits of MU research throughout the entire state. MU Extension programs focus on global food systems, health systems, community, economic, business and workforce development, environmental concerns, and educational attainment. For more information, visit www.extension.missouri.edu.