School of Engineering
Invest in the next generation of engineers who will solve problems, drive innovation, and shape a better future.
Invest in the next generation of engineers who will solve problems, drive innovation, and shape a better future.
The School of Engineering at St. Thomas stands at a critical intersection of opportunity and need. As Minnesota's only private engineering college and our university's fastest-growing college, we're uniquely positioned to address the severe shortage of engineering talent threatening innovation across the Upper Midwest.
What distinguishes our approach is our commitment to developing not just technical experts, but visionary problem-solvers who approach engineering challenges with ethical clarity and purpose. Our graduates enter the workforce equipped with both cutting-edge technical skills and the moral framework to ensure their innovations serve the common good.
Our School of Engineering stands among the nation's elite undergraduate engineering programs, ranking in the top 30 nationally according to U.S. News & World Report and #1 in Minnesota among programs without doctoral degrees. This recognition reflects our commitment to practical, hands-on education in dozens of fields, from civil to mechanical engineering, that transforms students into engineers who solve real-world problems with creativity and ethical purpose.
Both undergrad and graduate programs are recognized by U.S. News & World Report in the top 50 engineering schools, attracting top talent to St. Thomas from all across the country.
Have questions or want to make a bigger impact? Contact a gift officer to learn more.
Director of Development, School of Engineering
(651) 962-6913
Explore the School of Engineering Website
Center for Engineering Education: The Center for Engineering Education bridges critical gaps in STEM education by equipping P-12 educators with engineering knowledge, hands-on teaching methodologies, and curriculum resources. Through graduate level curriculum and ongoing educational support, we're cultivating the next generation of engineers by inspiring curiosity in classrooms across Minnesota and beyond.
Corporate and Industry Partnerships: Our corporate partners help bring incredible career opportunities to talented Tommies – without stepping off campus. From internships to capstone project sponsorships, these partnerships help our students bring groundbreaking creative ideas to life.
Study Abroad Programs: Our study abroad initiatives – from Global Summers to international senior design clinics – enable nearly 45% of our engineering students to gain invaluable cross-cultural competencies. We rely on the generosity of our donors to help fund these life – changing travel opportunities that open students' minds and expand their world view.
Scholarships: Scholarships are Priority One at St. Thomas, and the School of Engineering is no different. From our Summit Scholarship Fund for low-income students to The Charlie Fund Memorial Scholarship for international travel, we're making STEM careers a possibility for students of all backgrounds. In an industry that has historically been inaccessible, supporting scholarships means fueling the next generation of great thinkers and innovators.
Your generosity fuels the School of Engineering's mission to expand access, empower students, and sustain excellence in teaching and innovation.
Scholarships open doors for talented students from all backgrounds to pursue engineering. By easing financial barriers, you make it possible for promising Tommies to become the next generation of ethical innovators and problem-solvers.
Your gift ensures engineering students thrive—academically, personally, and professionally. From wellness resources and financial support to hands-on learning opportunities, you help students succeed on campus and graduate ready to lead in the workforce.
Exceptional faculty inspire exceptional students. Your investment helps us attract and retain diverse, industry-experienced educators who bring cutting-edge expertise and real-world perspective into our classrooms and labs.
Engineering Leadership
Dr. Don Weinkauf leads the University of St. Thomas School of Engineering with a strategic vision centered on interdisciplinary collaboration and applied learning – hallmarks that distinguish our program nationally. Drawing on more than two decades of academic leadership experience and his background as a chemical engineer, Dr. Weinkauf exemplifies the multifaceted expertise today's engineering challenges demand.
The Schoenecker Center is transforming the university's presence along Summit Avenue, where it adjoins O'Shaughnessy Science Hall. Designed with input from corporate industry partners, the center fosters collaboration among students who otherwise may not have worked together in traditional classroom settings.
Your generosity is the key to creating Tommie engineers who have the skills, drive and creative thinking skills to change the world.
