Bob Nields is new Dean of EIT Division

Robert “Bob” Nields has been selected as the Dean of the Engineering & Information Technologies (EIT) Division, effective July 1, 2025.

Provost Robbin Hoopes said, “Bob brings to the Dean position vision, energy, and a wealth of experience from industry and from academia as a professor and faculty program chair. I am confident that under Dean Nields’ leadership, the EIT Division will continue to grow, evolve, and provide our region with top-notch graduates from key technical programs that fully integrate experiential learning opportunities.”

Bob is a tenured professor who joined the full-time faculty at Cincinnati State in 2002. He has served as the program chair for several computer-related degree programs, including Computer Programming and Database Management, and as past co-program chair for Health Information Technologies. He has developed and taught numerous courses, in traditional and online modalities, related to programming, system analysis and design, mobile application development, and other technical subject matter.

Since January 2025, Bob has served as Interim Associate Dean of the EIT Division, with responsibilities for scheduling, adjunct faculty hiring and supervision, and management of technical laboratories.

Bob has served on numerous College committees, contributed to College-wide initiatives, collaborated across departments, and helped shape academic policies and processes. He has led teams, formally and informally, across a variety of settings.

Before and throughout his time in higher education, Bob built a career in business, technology, and sales at organizations such as AT&T, Cincinnati Bell, Paycor, and VonLehman & Company (a regional CPA firm). At VonLehman, he grew a technology practice from just himself to a team of 20. He also founded and ran his own company, West Key Technologies, LLC, where he managed a small team and served clients such as Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, and Debra-Kuempel.

In addition to his professional achievements, Bob has been a committed coach, leading successful high school sports teams to championships. His passion for teamwork and leadership includes extensive involvement with nonprofit organizations, where he served as president of several boards and led fundraising efforts for these organizations.

Bob said, “I’m passionate about Cincinnati State, and the work we do that helps students grow from their first advising appointment to graduation day. As Dean, I hope I can help expand our impact, through partnerships, innovation, and a deep commitment to student success.”