FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - Edward A. Pohl, associate professor of industrial engineering at the University of Arkansas, has been appointed director and chair of studies for the master of science in operations management program.

The program, offered through the department of industrial engineering, is the university’s largest graduate program with over 300 students from business, industry, the military and other sectors enrolled nationwide.

Pohl came to the university in 2004, after serving on the faculty of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he doubled as deputy director of the operations research center. He also served as a research analyst for the U.S. Defense Department in areas of cost, scheduling and performance. Pohl has been teaching in the University of Arkansas operations management program since last year.

Pohl succeeds Sandra Parker, who is retiring after four years as the head of the operations management program. Parker has been a professor in the industrial engineering department for 16 years. Enrollment in the program doubled during her tenure. Parker will continue to teach operations management classes.

"I am very pleased that Dr. Pohl will be leading our operations management program. His track record indicates his leadership will ensure that an excellent program will become even stronger in the future," said Chancellor John White.

The master of science degree in operations management is an accelerated degree program for managers and professionals who require extensive knowledge and a high level of skill in managing work processes and people.

The program offers traditional classes at several locations across the region. In addition, students can take distance-learning classes that allow them to study from any Internet-accessible location around the globe.

“I believe this program provides a valuable service to managers and professionals who desire current, practical knowledge that will assist them in effectively managing people and processes as they advance in their careers,” Pohl said.