James A. Trainham
James A. Trainham, Professor and Associate Chair for Industry Relations at the University of Florida’s Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, has retired after an illustrious career that seamlessly bridged academia and industry. His tenure at the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering (MAE) has been marked by significant contributions to advancing renewable energy research and supporting his colleagues in their quest for innovative, cost-effective solutions. Trainham’s departure signifies the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and excellence that will continue to inspire the MAE community.
Trainham earned his Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, laying a solid foundation for his endeavors in engineering and renewable energy. He held key industry positions prior to joining UF, including Chief Technology Officer at JDC Phosphate; Vice President and Director at RTI International’s Research Triangle Solar Fuels Institute; CEO and Senior Vice President of Engineering at Sundrop Fuels; Global Vice President of Science and Technology at PPG Industries; and a 25-year tenure at the DuPont Company. He also served as an Assistant Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of South Carolina, demonstrating his commitment to both teaching and industrial innovation.
Trainham received numerous accolades for his contributions to chemical engineering and industry leadership throughout his career. Foremost among these was his election to the National Academy of Engineering in 1997. Additional recognitions include the AIChE Award for Chemical Engineering Practice in 2002, being named one of the “100 Chemical Engineers of the Modern Era” by AIChE in 2008, election as a Fellow of AIChE in 2012, and the Industry Leadership Award in 2016. These honors reflect his dedication to advancing engineering practices and leading innovative projects (AIChE, 2008; National Academy of Engineering, 1997).
Reflecting on his time at MAE, Trainham highlighted several key experiences that defined his tenure:
“In my six wonderful years at MAE, these are some moments that stand out: collaborating with Professor Scheffe and Professor Chung on renewable energy research; helping shape the department’s strategic direction; teaching EML2920 with invaluable support from Dr. Mike Griffis; serving as faculty advisor to the Solar Gators and witnessing our students excel as a team on an international stage; and contributing as a member of the Awards and Honors Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee. These roles have given me a deep appreciation for the talent within MAE and the bright future I see for the department,” he said.
Dr. Trainham leaves behind a legacy of innovation and dedication as he steps into retirement. His contributions to education and industry have not only benefited technological advancements but also inspired a new generation of engineers. The MAE department celebrates his achievements and looks forward to building upon the strong foundation he established.
John D. Abbitt III
John D. Abbitt III, a dedicated professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, has retired after a distinguished career marked by significant contributions to both academia and the aerospace industry. His retirement signals the conclusion of a notable chapter for aerospace engineering at UF, where his expertise and passion have profoundly influenced students and colleagues alike.
Abbitt’s journey began with his undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia, after which he embarked on a career with the U.S. Navy. He excelled in flight training at Pensacola, Florida, flying aircraft such as the T-34B Mentor, T-28 B & C, and the S-2 Tracker. His military service included instructing at Training Squadron 6 at Whiting Field and flying the P-3 Orion for anti-submarine and ship warfare missions. His deployments spanned the globe, including assignments in Iceland, NATO countries, the Far East, the Middle East, and Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, showcasing his versatility and leadership in diverse environments.
After his military service, Abbitt pursued a Ph.D. at the University of Virginia, focusing on Scramjet engines for the X-30 National Aerospace Hypersonic Plane. His research significantly contributed to Rocketdyne’s design and sizing of the engine combustor, demonstrating his ability to bridge theoretical research with practical applications.
Joining UF in 2006, Abbitt began by teaching thermal sciences labs, quickly becoming a cornerstone of the department. Initially co-teaching EML4147C Thermo-Heats Design and Lab and EML4304C Thermo-Fluids Design and Lab, he soon took full responsibility for both courses. Over the years, he taught EML4147C 54 times, showcasing his commitment to education and student mentorship. Professor Abbitt also expanded his teaching repertoire by developing and teaching courses such as EAS2011 Introduction to Aerospace Engineering and co-teaching the Aerospace Sciences lab alongside colleagues Larry Ukeiley and Bruce Carroll.
A key achievement at UF was the acquisition and development of wind tunnels for undergraduate aerospace students, enhancing hands-on learning and research capabilities. Additionally, he spearheaded the Engines lab to support the Re-Engineering Historic Machinery course, where students engaged in projects like re-engineering 1954 Ford Tractors and installing Cummins Diesel engines in Jeep Cherokees.
Abbitt’s dedication extended beyond teaching and research. He served on numerous committees, including the Student Conduct Committee, where his exemplary service earned him the Morton Wolfson Service Award for outstanding contributions. His leadership roles included two terms on the Faculty Senate and the Engineering Faculty Council, where he served as secretary, influencing departmental policies and initiatives.
As Professor John D. Abbitt III steps into retirement, his legacy at the University of Florida remains impactful. His unwavering dedication to aerospace education, innovative research, and student mentorship has inspired countless engineers and will continue to shape the future of aerospace engineering at UF. The Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering honors his achievements and looks forward to building upon the strong foundation he has established.
Story & Editing by: Vera Pappaterra Genao
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UF Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
January 15, 2025