MILWAUKEE — A leadership transition is planned for the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) at the start of 2026.
Current president Dr. John Walz has announced his retirement, and will transition to the role of President Emeritus of MSOE effective on January 1, 2026. His new focus will become fundraising and external outreach to support MSOE’s “Next Bold Step” campaign.
Dr. Walz has lead the university since 2016.
MSOE Executive Vice President of Academics Dr. Eric Baumgartner has been named the next president. Dr. Baumgartner has been with the university since 2017.
“MSOE has a deep history of impactful leadership,” said Dr. James C. Rahn, chairman of the MSOE Board of Regents and president of the Kern Family Foundation. “This transition ensures a solid foundation for the next era of academic excellence and institutional growth. John Walz and Eric Baumgartner have forged a strong working relationship and share deep character, humility and love for MSOE.”
