About

Multi-disciplinary problem-solver with experience in strategy, large-scale transformation, and academic research across multiple industries: optics & photonics, automotive / mobility, electric vehicles, retail, industrial goods. Focused on being the bridge between business and technology to change the world for the better.

I am a creative and adaptive problem-solver. As an engineer by training, I believe that all problems can be broken down into smaller, more solvable parts. As a management consulting & policy wonk, I recognize that most problems are not purely technical. They require solutions that bring together technology, business, public policy, and social stakeholders.

I am an intentional and international community builder with 10+ years of experience in starting / running volunteer organizations, executing events, and inspiring members. My current organizations include Society of Women Engineers (SWE), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Optica (formerly OSA), and the International Society for Optics & Photonics (SPIE). A few fun & notable examples of my involvement include:

• Awarded BCG’s Key to Purpose for outstanding mentorship of my teams (Jun. ’21)
• Facilitated 2 leadership camps for 40+ female engineering students in Liberia (’16-’17)
• Coordinated a diverse team of 20+ volunteers at 16 events for the 2015 UNESCO International Year of Light, affecting over 1500 community members
• Led the design of an Escape Room for 400 grad students that cost <$30 per room

My second-grade teacher once described me as having “an exuberance for life“.  Those who know me IRL can attest that that description is still applicable over two decades later.

I hold a PhD degree in Electrical Engineering from the Univ. of Michigan, specializing in optic & photonic technologies, along with a graduate certificate in Science, Technology, and Public Policy from the Ford School of Public Policy. I also earned a BS in Electrical Engineering in 2012 from Michigan Technological University.

Outside of work, I spend time gardening, baking (especially mini desserts!), reading, adventuring outside with my husband Patrick, and playing board games with friends.

Want to learn more about me?
Twitter: www.twitter.com/efcloos (politics, optics, and science)
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/efcloos (research and career)