Posted on July 31, 2026 by Klesse College Staff
The Margie and Bill Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design at UT San Antonio has named Arturo Montoya, Ph.D., interim Director of the School of Civil & Environmental Engineering and Construction Management.
Montoya joined UT San Antonio in 2012 and has built an impressive record in teaching, research and academic leadership. Since 2020, he has served as Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs, leading initiatives that have strengthened student success and prepare graduates for the modern workforce.A graduate of Columbia University, Montoya has led research projects sponsored by organizations including NASA, the U.S. Department of Defense, the Texas Department of Transportation and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. He has authored more than 50 peer-reviewed publications and served as the university's principal investigator for the NASA-funded Resilient Extra-Terrestrial Habitats (RETHi) Institute. He has also received national recognition for his contributions to engineering education and student mentorship.
"After several years serving in college leadership, I am honored to serve my home department in this new role," said Montoya. "This is an especially exciting time for civil engineering and construction management as emerging technologies and growing infrastructure needs are creating new opportunities to strengthen communities and support economic growth. I look forward to helping advance the school's educational and research mission while preparing future leaders."
As interim chair, Montoya hopes to strengthen industry partnerships, build on the school's existing strengths and create even more opportunities for students to develop the skills, experiences and professional networks needed for successful careers in engineering and construction.
For Montoya, the role is also personal.
"Engineering and construction have always been part of my family's identity," he said. "That passion has inspired me throughout my career, and I hope to pass it on to future generations."
— Klesse College Staff
