Aixi Zhou is the Vice Provost for Research and Innovation and a Professor of Engineering at Norfolk State University. He brings a distinguished record of academic leadership and research excellence, having previously chaired the Department of Applied Engineering Technology at North Carolina A&T State University. His academic journey includes appointments at UNC Charlotte, Virginia Tech, EPFL in Switzerland, and UC San Diego. He is a licensed Professional Engineer and a Fellow of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers. Nationally, he contributes to the advancement of engineering education and innovation through active service on influential boards and committees, including ABET and the National Academies. He earned his Ph.D. in Engineering Mechanics from Virginia Tech. Zhou and his wife, Wei Sha (a proud two-time Hokie), reside in Virginia Beach with their four children.