ALUMNI INTERVIEW
DR. JOHNEY GREEN, JR.
M.S. ME 1993, Ph.D. ME 2000
Group Leader—Fuels, Engines, and Emissions Research Center, Oak Ridge National Laboratory
FOCUS 1992
Q. How did you learn about FOCUS at Georgia Tech? And what factors influenced your decision
to attend?
From a conversation with Dr. William Wepfer (former director of graduate studies for the Mechanical
Engineering Department). His personal invitation and the opportunity to learn more about graduate
studies at Georgia Tech influenced my decision to attend.
Q. Describe your overall experience at FOCUS.
It was a great experience. I learned a great deal about the opportunities that would be afforded to
me via an advanced degree and about funding opportunities for graduate school.
Q. What impressed you the most about the FOCUS program?
The panelists and the level of commitment and interest demonstrated by the Mechanical Engineering
department and the College of Engineering.
Q. Did your experience at FOCUS contribute to your decision to attend Georgia Tech? If so,
in what ways?
Yes it did. Being able to interact with and connect with the large African-American graduate student
population at Georgia Tech helped to influence my decision.
Q. Describe your overall experience at Georgia Tech.
It was a wonderful learning experience that promoted personal and intellectual growth.
Q. Did FOCUS prepare you for your experience at Georgia Tech? If so, how?
Yes. It exposed my to the process that you must navigate to earn a graduate degree and built the
foundation for the support system that I relied on during my graduate studies.
Q. What is the most valuable lesson you learned at Georgia Tech?
That I now have the network and skills to become knowledgeable in any subject area.
Q. How has your experience at Tech (educational and otherwise) prepared you for your current
career?
It has given me the tools to feel comfortable in any setting and the confidence to take on new challenges
and opportunities as they arise.