Dr. Mark Darby, an alumnus from the Department of Chemical Engineering is the recipient of the 2024 Process Automation Hall of Fame Award.

Mark Darby, a distinguished figure in process automation, was recently inducted into the 2024 Process Automation Hall of Fame. His journey began during his junior year at Texas Tech University in the Department of Chemical Engineering, where a pivotal process control course ignited his passion for the field. Despite the typical disinterest among students, Darby found his calling in utilizing chemical engineering principles for control strategy solutions.

With a career spanning consultancy, teaching, and advisory roles, Darby has become a beacon of inspiration for aspiring engineers. He attributes the lack of interest in process control roles to a disconnect between academia and industry, emphasizing the need for more practical, engaging teaching methods.

Darby's career took him across the globe, from Europe to Asia, working with companies like Setpoint and Aspen Technology before establishing his consultancy, CMiD Solutions. Despite the global ventures, he now focuses his work mainly in the U.S. Gulf Coast region, enjoying the flexibility to pursue hobbies like camping, motorcycling, and running.

Darby acknowledges the significant industry and technological changes over the years but remains committed to addressing process control challenges and inspiring the next generation of engineers.