Des Plaines, Ill. (Oct. 27, 2025) — Oakton College Engineering Faculty Member Anne Lucietto, Ph.D., MBA, F.SWE., Sr.IEEE, has been recognized by the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) for her exceptional contributions to engineering education, research and workforce development. Lucietto received SWE’s Distinguished Engineering Educator Award during the organization’s annual conference, WE25, in New Orleans, Oct. 24.
"We are really privileged that Dr. Lucietto is a part of Oakton's Engineering faculty and is willing to share her professional experience and academic expertise with our students,” said Jim Rabchuk, Oakton’s dean of STEM. “She is living proof that engineering is a woman's job. It is people like her who make Oakton the place for everyone to get their start in engineering."
The Distinguished Engineering Educator Award honors women who have made significant contributions to the engineering profession through education. Lucietto was selected for her innovative approach to teaching and research in engineering and engineering technology education, as well as her efforts to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Her research focuses on engineering identity development, workforce preparation, and the integration of science, technology and engineering education to inspire the next generation of engineers.
“I’m truly honored to receive the Distinguished Engineering Educator Award,” said Lucietto. “This recognition reflects the incredible students, colleagues and mentors who inspire me daily. Engineering education is about lifting others to tackle real-world challenges. I accept this award with heartfelt gratitude and a renewed passion for the work ahead.”
In addition to her role at Oakton, Lucietto is an associate professor at Purdue University, where she focuses on engineering and engineering technology education, workforce development, energy generation, and thermofluids. Her career spans more than four decades, encompassing both academia and industry, with leadership roles at Commonwealth Edison, Caterpillar Inc., Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory and International Titanium Powder. During this time, she managed large-scale engineering projects and plant operations.
Lucietto has been an active member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) for more than 32 years. At this year’s conference, Lucietto co-presented a popular session, “Breaking Stereotypes: The Hidden Engineering Skills in Feminine Hobbies.” Most recently, she has served as the director of members at large (2023–2025) and chair of Women in Academia (2019–2020). Additionally, over the years, she has held several leadership roles within the national organization, including treasurer, president, vice president and representative of the Chicago Regional Section. Her ongoing contributions continue to advance SWE’s mission of promoting the success and visibility of women in engineering and technology.
“We’re thrilled to recognize this year’s SWE award recipients at WE25 in New Orleans, where the theme is ‘Embrace Your Story,’” said Inaas Darrat, FY26 SWE president. “These honorees exemplify the mission of SWE through their achievements, leadership, and service to the engineering and technology community across the globe. Each of their stories is a powerful reminder of the impact engineers can have in shaping our world and inspiring others. Congratulations to all of our winners!”
There are many different categories of engineering, including mechanical, chemical, civil, electrical, computer, industrial and more. Whatever branch most interests you, Oakton is a terrific place to begin your engineering education. For more information, visit Oakton’s website.