About Aaron J. Miles

In memory of Aaron J. Miles.

BSME 1930, MSM
MSMath 1931, MSM
ScDEMech 1935, University of Michigan

Aaron received the first MS degree in mathematics granted by MSM. He began his professional career as an instructor of mathematics at UMR while completing his graduate work. He continued teaching mathematics at Albion College in Albion, Mich. while a doctoral student. In 1935 he joined Shurtloff College in Alton, Ill., as a professor of physics and mathematics and department head. In 1937 he came to MSM as an associate professor in mechanical engineering. Aaron became a full professor and chairman of ME in 1942. In 1964 he was selected as the first dean of the School of Engineering, the position from which he retired in 1974.Aaron's industry experience included summers as a research petroleum engineer with Standard Oil and Gas Co. in Tulsa, Okla. He was also a research engineer with the Naval Ordnance Test Station in China Lake, Calif., a consultant with Southwestern Bell telephone company in St. Louis, and a head engineer with Sverdrup and Parcel Inc. in St. Louis.Aaron's vision led to the implementation of many far-reaching programs at MSM/UMR. In 1964, Aaron served on the committee which recommended changing the college name from Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy to the University of Missouri at Rolla. He was instrumental in obtaining federal grants in 1960 to build the first nuclear reactor in Missouri, located on the campus of MSM. In 1956 he and others created a cooperative engineering program, which combined financial assistance, on-the-job training and academic programs. Three significant participants in the initial stages of the "Co-op" programs were McDonnell Aircraft, Caterpillar, and the Missouri State Highway Department.