SUNY Polytechnic Institute Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

SUNY Polytechnic Institute has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, information technology, operations, external relations, interim leadership, presidential oversight, and student engagement.

Driven by innovation, SUNY Polytechnic Institute is New York's public polytechnic college, dedicated to advancing technological education and research from its base in Utica, NY, fostering a dynamic environment for academic and industrial collaboration.

Leadership Roles at SUNY Polytechnic Institute

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Alain Kaloyeros
  • Chief Financial Officer - Timothy Taylor
  • Chief Operating Officer AIM Photonics, Director EPDA, Process Technology Development SUNY Albany, and Packaging Developm - David Harame
  • Interim President - Sammakia Bahgat
  • President - Winston Soboyejo
  • President - Kyle Vedder
  • President, The Women In Engineering Club - Sabah Haji
  • Chief Information Officer - Robert Stapf
  • Vice President, External Relations & Chief of Staff - Wayne Westervelt
  • Alain Kaloyeros - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Alain Kaloyeros, the President & Chief Executive Officer at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, directs the overarching strategy and executive leadership for the institution. Kaloyeros guides the polytechnic college's mission to advance technological education and research, ensuring alignment with New York State's economic development goals. This leadership role involves setting the vision for academic programs, research initiatives, and campus development. Alain Kaloyeros oversees all major institutional operations, driving innovation and fostering partnerships that enhance the institute's standing as a leading public polytechnic. The executive leadership under Kaloyeros focuses on expanding the institute's impact and relevance in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

    Timothy Taylor - Chief Financial Officer

    Timothy Taylor, the Chief Financial Officer at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, manages the institution's financial health and strategic resource allocation. Taylor oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, financial planning, and investment management, ensuring the sustainable growth of the polytechnic college. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that support academic excellence and research endeavors. Timothy Taylor works closely with other executive leaders to optimize resource utilization and secure funding for institutional priorities. The financial oversight provided by Taylor is essential for maintaining operational integrity and enabling future expansion of SUNY Polytechnic Institute's programs and facilities.

    David Harame - Chief Operating Officer AIM Photonics, Director EPDA, Process Technology Development SUNY Albany, and Packaging Developm

    David Harame, the Chief Operating Officer AIM Photonics, Director EPDA, Process Technology Development SUNY Albany, and Packaging Developm at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, directs critical operational aspects of advanced technology development and manufacturing. Harame oversees the complex processes within AIM Photonics and related development initiatives, ensuring efficient execution and technological innovation. This multifaceted role involves managing research and development projects, optimizing production workflows, and fostering collaboration across different technological domains. David Harame's leadership is instrumental in advancing the institute's capabilities in areas such as integrated photonics and advanced packaging. The operational strategies implemented by Harame directly contribute to the institute's mission of driving technological progress and industrial application.

    Sammakia Bahgat - Interim President

    Sammakia Bahgat, the Interim President at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, provides essential leadership during a transitional period, ensuring continuity of operations and strategic direction. Bahgat oversees the institute's academic and administrative functions, maintaining momentum on key initiatives and fostering a stable environment for students and faculty. This leadership position involves guiding the polytechnic college through its interim phase, upholding its commitment to technological education and research. Sammakia Bahgat works closely with the executive team to address immediate priorities and support the long-term vision of SUNY Polytechnic Institute. The steady guidance provided by Bahgat is crucial for navigating this period of leadership transition.

    Winston Soboyejo - President

    Winston Soboyejo, the President at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, leads the institution with a focus on advancing its polytechnic mission and research capabilities. Soboyejo drives strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing academic programs, fostering innovation, and strengthening industry partnerships. This executive role involves setting the vision for the institute's growth and its contribution to technological advancement. Winston Soboyejo collaborates with faculty, staff, and external stakeholders to ensure the institute remains at the forefront of technological education and research. The leadership provided by Soboyejo is key to realizing the full potential of SUNY Polytechnic Institute and its impact on the region.
    Winston Soboyejo

    Kyle Vedder - President

    Kyle Vedder, the President at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, directs key institutional efforts focused on specific strategic objectives within the polytechnic framework. Vedder oversees the execution of initiatives designed to enhance academic offerings and research output, ensuring alignment with the institute's core mission. This leadership position involves managing departmental operations and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and academic excellence. Kyle Vedder collaborates with other leaders to advance the institute's goals and expand its influence in technological education. The focused leadership provided by Vedder is essential for driving progress in targeted areas at SUNY Polytechnic Institute.

    Sabah Haji - President, The Women In Engineering Club

    Sabah Haji, the President, The Women In Engineering Club at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, champions initiatives to support and promote women in engineering fields. Haji leads club activities, mentorship programs, and networking events designed to empower female students and professionals. This role involves fostering a supportive community and advocating for increased representation and success for women in STEM disciplines. Sabah Haji collaborates with institute leadership and external organizations to advance the club's objectives and create opportunities for its members. The dedication of Haji to this cause significantly contributes to diversity and inclusion efforts within SUNY Polytechnic Institute's engineering programs.

    Robert Stapf - Chief Information Officer

    Robert Stapf, the Chief Information Officer at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, leads the development and implementation of the institute's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Stapf ensures that information systems support the academic, research, and administrative functions of the polytechnic college, driving technological advancement. This position involves overseeing cybersecurity, data management, and the integration of innovative digital tools for students and faculty. Robert Stapf collaborates with various departments to enhance technological capabilities and streamline operations. The strategic direction provided by Stapf is crucial for maintaining a cutting-edge learning environment and supporting the institute's research objectives at SUNY Polytechnic Institute.

    Wayne Westervelt - Vice President, External Relations & Chief of Staff

    Wayne Westervelt, the Vice President, External Relations & Chief of Staff at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, manages the institute's external communications and strategic partnerships. Westervelt cultivates relationships with industry, government, and community stakeholders, enhancing the institute's public profile and collaborative opportunities. This role involves overseeing public relations, government affairs, and alumni engagement, ensuring effective representation of SUNY Polytechnic Institute. Wayne Westervelt also provides high-level support to the executive leadership, coordinating strategic initiatives and ensuring operational alignment. The external engagement strategies developed by Westervelt are vital for advancing the institute's mission and expanding its influence.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding SUNY Polytechnic Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads SUNY Polytechnic Institute?
    SUNY Polytechnic Institute is led by Alain Kaloyeros (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Timothy Taylor (Chief Financial Officer) and David Harame (Chief Operating Officer AIM Photonics, Director EPDA, Process Technology Development SUNY Albany, and Packaging Developm).
    Who is part of SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of SUNY Polytechnic Institute includes leaders such as Alain Kaloyeros (President & Chief Executive Officer), Timothy Taylor (Chief Financial Officer), David Harame (Chief Operating Officer AIM Photonics, Director EPDA, Process Technology Development SUNY Albany, and Packaging Developm) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does SUNY Polytechnic Institute have?
    SUNY Polytechnic Institute has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in SUNY Polytechnic Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of SUNY Polytechnic Institute includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer AIM Photonics, Director EPDA, Process Technology Development SUNY Albany, and Packaging Developm, Interim President, President.