ECE Alum Vikram Manikonda Named Professor of the Practice

ECE and ISR alum Vikram Manikonda (ECE M.S. ’94 / Ph.D. ’97) has been named a University of Maryland Professor of the Practice by University of Maryland President Darryl J. Pines.

"It is a privilege and a profound honor to return to my alma mater as Professor of Practice,” says Manikonda.“ I’m excited to bring my research and industry experience into the classroom and collaborate closely with students and faculty of ECE to advance the department’s academic and research mission, build and expand the university's culture of entrepreneurship, and strengthen its partnerships with industry and government"

Manikonda was the Chief Technology Officer for BlueHalo, a technology company focused on providing industry-leading capabilities to defense and national security sectors. At BlueHalo he oversaw research, product and technology development in the areas of space technologies, counter-uncrewed aircraft systems, directed energy, electronic warfare, cyber, autonomy, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. Prior to joining BlueHalo, he was the President and Chief Executive Officer of Intelligent Automation, Inc, which was subsequently acquired by BlueHalo.

Since receiving his Ph.D. in electrical engineering, Manikonda has been an active member of the UMD engineering alumni community. He is currently on the Board of Visitors for the A. James Clark School of Engineering and is the Chair of the MATRIX Lab Industry Advisory Board. He has also served as the Chair of the Strategic Advisory Council for the Institute for Systems Research (ISR).

In 2014, he was honored with the Clark School’s Glenn L. Martin Medal, which is awarded to individuals who have upheld and contributed to the mission and ideals of the A. James Clark School of Engineering and are chosen based on exceptional community service, contributions to the student experience, and noteworthy leadership and accomplishments in the field of engineering.

In 2023, Manikonda established the Vikram Manikonda Endowed Distinguished Graduate Fellowship in electrical and computer engineering. The fellowship provides ECE graduate students with merit-based support with the intention of enhancing diversity in engineering, particularly for students researching controls or microelectronics.

The title of Professor of the Practice is used to appoint individuals who have demonstrated excellence in the practice as well as leadership in specific fields. Regional and national prominence and outstanding achievement in their fields forms the basis for nomination and appointment.

"Congratulations to Vikram - this is great news for him, the ECE department, and the entire Clark School of Engineering community," said Reza Ghodssi, Distinguished University Professor at UMD and Executive Director of Research and Innovation for the MATRIX Lab. "Thank you to my Clark School colleagues for their support of this prestigious appointment. We are thrilled to have Vikram on board and look forward to all we can accomplish together."

Published August 19, 2025