Grace Bochenek ’98PhD is a professor in the School of Modeling, Simulation and Training. Prior to joining UCF, Bochenek held a presidential cabinet appointment as acting U.S. secretary of energy and earlier had a career of motivating research, and development in national security and energy, the private sector, and as a member of the federal government senior executive service.

Recognized for her ability to anticipate and inspire technological innovation, Bochenek is endlessly fascinated by the potential of next generation technology, and the next generation who will wield it in the workforce.

Her past leadership roles included managing research and overseeing partnerships with universities as Director of the National Energy Technology Laboratory, serving as the chief technology officer of the U.S. Army Materiel Command, and leading research and development as the director of the Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center. She was awarded the Presidential Rank Award as meritorious executive, a silver medal from the National Defense Industry Association, and decorations for exceptional civilian service from the U.S. Army and the U.S. Department of Energy.