April 13, 2025

On Feb. 11, Dale E. Klein (BS ME ’70, NS ’71, PhD ’77) was elected to join the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). Election to the NAE is among the highest distinctions in the profession.

“Mizzou Engineers have long challenged themselves to drive advancement in the field of engineering,” Mizzou Engineering Dean Marisa Chrysochoou said. “Dale’s achievements build on our rich history of traditions and academic excellence.”

Klein is currently a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. He served as chair of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and as assistant to the secretary of defense for nuclear, chemical and biological defense programs.

Klein’s work in safety and regulation led to him to help establish the Nuclear Safety Review Board for the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation and the Nuclear Reform Monitoring Committee for Tokyo Electric Power Co. after the Fukushima accident, ensuring improved nuclear safety worldwide.

“Professor Klein is a world-renowned expert in energy security, a proud Tiger alumnus and a strong advocate for nuclear research and innovation at Mizzou,” said University of Missouri President Mun Choi. “As chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Professor Klein was instrumental in securing our energy future to nuclear technologies. We are honored to recognize his distinguished career and to congratulate him on this incredible accomplishment.”

Klein received the 2024 Jefferson Club Golden Quill Alumni Excellence Award, one of Mizzou’s highest honors. Recipients of the award demonstrate outstanding achievement in their chosen field and reflect the university’s core values of respect, responsibility, discovery and excellence.

NAE members are among the world’s most accomplished engineers from business, academia and government. The 128 new members and 22 international members of the Class of 2025 will be formally inducted during the NAE’s Annual Meeting on Oct. 5.

Founded in 1964, the NAE provides independent, objective analysis and advice to the nation, offering leadership and insights for a complex world.