Dr. Wael A. Samad is Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering at RIT Dubai. He earned his Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and his B.E. from the American University of Beirut. His work bridges experimental solid mechanics, sustainable materials and recycling, and the characterization of 3D-printed structures. He has published over 50 peer-reviewed papers and co-edited the books Smart Cities in the Gulf and Carbon Neutrality in the GCC. Dr. Samad has also led funded partnerships with Siemens, DEWA, and Emirates Global Aluminum, driving industry-focused innovation in the UAE.