Dawne M. Moffatt-Fairbanks

In a nutshell, my job today entails being responsible for core engineering capabilities in glass, ceramics, metallurgical applications, thermal processes, and thermal equipment design in support of all Corning businesses and R&D as well as strategy for new capabilities. My team supports fundamental materials challenges as well as design, process, and equipment innovation for glass melting and forming for applications such as LCD televisions, smart phones’ cover glass,  advanced optics, and fiber optics.   

When I was five years old, I wanted to be an astronaut. That was before I realized having motion sickness was a non-starter.  

Why I chose Penn State: I grew up in central Pennsylvania, so Penn State was my first choice for college. I was interested in math and science but wasn’t excited about the traditional engineering disciplines. My high school guidance counselor, also a Penn State graduate, recommended ceramic engineering. During the summer before my senior year in high school, I spent a weekend at Penn State and was hooked—and stayed for eight years straight! 

You might be surprised to know that: I traveled to many places around the globe—China, Japan, Australia, Russia, Poland, France, Italy, India, United Kingdom, Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, South Korea, and Taiwan—most of them as part of leadership training or visits to Corning sites. I have been amazed at how small the world really is and how people in every culture are similar—all wanting the best for their families—meeting people in India and China really illustrated that for me. 

When I think about my time at Penn State, my fondest memory is the great people I met throughout my years at Penn State. Friends from both undergraduate and graduate school who are still part of my life. 

Words of wisdom to current students: Take advantage of every opportunity you have that challenges yourself inside and outside the classroom – meeting new people, experiencing new things, exploring new disciplines, engaging with classmates and professors, and having fun!