Binil Starly

Growing up, Binil Starly was fascinated by computers. He eventually began developing intelligent machines that combined hardware and software innovations for the future of manufacturing.

Today, Starly has taken on the role that his younger self has always been preparing for — directing and teaching at Arizona State University’s  School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks, the newest of the seven engineering schools in the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

Starly believes his experiences, accomplishments and accolades in digital manufacturing have equipped him for this vital role.

“I chose to come to Arizona for the importance that the university and state of Arizona have placed on manufacturing,” Starly says. “ASU has developed an environment that encourages fundamental and translational research to impact society, while recognizing that partnerships and collaborations are key to pursuing solutions to large problems.”

Starly, who was named one of the 20 most influential professors in smart manufacturing by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers in 2020, looks forward to building core competencies in advanced manufacturing processes, cybermanufacturing and operations engineering, digital factories, and robotics and automation at ASU — elements that he says are necessary for advancing manufacturing in the nation.

Teaching these subjects in the classroom will set the groundwork for propelling the new school forward. This drive to push the School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks into the future is why Starly plans to teach digital manufacturing and Python programming for engineers.

“In all of my classes, I focus on the development of core technical skills, opportunities for self-learning and project-based activities that incorporate concepts learned in class and extended learning personalized to the career aspirations of the student,” says Starly, who received a National Science Foundation Faculty Early Career Development Program (CAREER) Award for his contributions to smart manufacturing.

As activity in the School of Manufacturing Systems and Networks ramps up, Starly will be highly engaged in its development; however, in his spare time, he likes to put his foodie hat on, trying out new cuisines and recipes with his family.

“I think I have perfected the tiramisu,” Starly says.

Meet the newest faculty members of the Fulton Schools of Engineering here.

Written by Sona Srinarayana