This Coffee Talk features an open, conversational interview with Bruce Lindvall (retired Assistant Dean for Graduate Studies, McCormick School of Engineering at Northwestern College), exploring practical next-step strategies for students and early-career professionals pursuing their educational and professional goals.
The discussion will cover traditional degree pathways, industry certifications, and a range of resources that help learners (and their parents) navigate today’s evolving education landscape. Attendees will gain clarity on how to choose the right path, build momentum, and make informed decisions that support long-term success.
As always, this Coffee Talk is free, open to the public, and qualifying participants can earn 1 CPE.
SPEAKER: Bruce A. Lindvall - Assistant Dean for Graduate Studies (Retired from Northwestern University)
Bruce recently retired from Northwestern University in November 2023 after serving as assistant dean for graduate studies in the McCormick School of Engineering for 18 years. In that role he was responsible for recruiting graduate students, overseeing MS and PhD admissions, and also providing student services to over 1000 PhD students and over 500 MS students.
Dr. Lindvall spent 51 years in higher education working for Purdue University, the University of Kansas, the College Board, and Northwestern University. He has always been passionate about helping high school and college students attain their educational goals in undergraduate, graduate, and professional education.
In his retirement he has authored a book, “Applying for Graduate Admission in US Engineering Schools”, which is available through Amazon Publishing and Kindle. During his time at Northwestern, he served on the National Science Foundation Research for Experiences for Undergraduates panels and the GEM Board of Directors. He has spoken to many groups about planning and applying for engineering graduate programs. Those groups include Argonne National Lab, Idaho National Lab, the Big Ten Grad Expo, GEM, and Tau Beta Pi. He represented Northwestern University at graduate fairs and national conferences across the United States.
His educational background includes a BS in mathematics, an MS in Counseling, and a PhD in Higher Education Administration, all from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana.
Visit Bruce on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bruce-lindvall-2353944/
DETAILS:
Date: Thursday, April 23rd
Time: 12:00 - 1:15 p.m.
Location: Online via Zoom
CPE: 1
ONLINE
Online access is available via the chapter’s Zoom account (registration below).
Attendance capacity is 500