Manufacturing Processes: Materials, Productivity, and Lean Strategies

Dr. J. Barry DuVall is Director of Online Learning in the College of Technology and Computer Science/Department of Technology Systems at East Carolina University. DuVall has more than 40 years experience teaching and conducting field-based pilot projects in manufacturing processes, industrial materials, productivity improvement, and technology management and communications.  Dr. DuVall was previously Director of the Technology Advancement Center, a research and development incubator and test bed that conducted research on technology for learning and the improvement of organizational effectiveness (2004–2009). DuVall also co-directed, with Dr. David Hillis, the Center for Wireless and Mobile Computing (2002–2004) and OWLS (Online Wireless Learning Systems), a project funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Ericsson, Incorporated, and East Carolina University (1999–2003).  Dr. DuVall also directed an ARPA/TRP/NSF Defense Industry Partnership Project called The Factory as a Learning Laboratory.  This project provided education and training to Black and Decker (U.S.) associates and defense industry scientists and engineers in six locations using interactive video and the Internet. (ARPA/TRP/NSF, 1994–1997).  This resulted in the first Internet program in industrial technology in the nation. 

Dr. DuVall received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Industrial Technology and Education from Indiana State University and his PhD in Industrial Education and Technology from the University of Maryland.  His industrial experience includes electronics, design, and manufacturing.

Dr. David R. Hillis has taught courses in manufacturing and quality in the Department of Industrial Technology at East Carolina University for over 15 years. In 1994 he taught his first course using distance education technology. His experience in distance education ranges from computer-based bulletin boards to closed circuit television and interactive Internet-based methods. In 1997, Dr. Hillis received a grant from East Carolina University to develop a “hands-on” Internet-accessible laboratory facility. This work created a CNC milling machine with design software that students were able to access, operate, and view entirely over the Internet.

Dr. Hillis received his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and Master of Science in Engineering Administration from Bradley University, Peoria, Illinois. He has an Ed.D. in Training and Development from North Carolina State University. Dr. Hillis had over 20 years of industrial experience in engineering and management with an electrical equipment manufacturer before beginning his teaching career at East Carolina University. His industrial experience has continued to grow through his active consulting practice. Dr. Hillis specializes in manufacturing operations and systems.