Learn about our members

Professional Associates (PA) is a community of nearly 50 educators, scientists, innovators, business leaders, policymakers, and professionals who bring their real-world experience to support Fort Lewis College. Members share a commitment to strengthening student learning, enriching faculty teaching, and advancing community partnerships across the Four Corners.

Expertise across disciplines

PA members represent seven core areas of expertise:

  • Medicine, public health, and life sciences
  • Engineering, physical sciences, and technology
  • Environmental science and ecology
  • Education, sociology, and community development
  • Arts, communication, and humanities
  • Leadership, strategy, and organizational management
  • Law, policy, and government service

This breadth of knowledge allows PA members to serve as guest lecturers, mentors, advisors, and collaborators—bringing valuable insight to classrooms, academic programs, and community initiatives.

History and purpose

Professional Associates was established in 1999 by President Kendall Blanchard as a strategic advisory group. Since then, its role has expanded to include direct support for students, faculty, and community programming—while maintaining a strong advisory partnership with college leadership.

Meet our members

Each member brings a unique background and perspective to Fort Lewis College. Browse the directory below to explore individual bios, professional experience, and areas of expertise.

Charles Carson

cccarson@aol.com

Profession: Engineer

Education

  • 1967, BS, Engineering Sciences (with highest distinction), Purdue University
  • 1968, MS, Engineering Sciences, Purdue University
  • 1972, MA, Mathematics, University of New Mexico
  • 1975, PhD, Operations Research, Purdue University

Career Profile

Dr. Charles (Chuck) Carson has had a distinguished career spanning engineering, academia, and public service. After earning his BS and MS degrees in Engineering Sciences from Purdue University, he pursued an MA in Mathematics at the University of New Mexico, followed by a PhD in Operations Research through Purdue’s interdepartmental program.

For 32 years, Chuck worked at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, contributing to energy and defense projects in various roles. His expertise in engineering and operations research played a key role in advancing national security and energy initiatives.

During his time at Sandia, Chuck also served as an Adjunct Professor in Mechanical Engineering at the University of New Mexico, sharing his knowledge with future engineers.

Community and Volunteer Work

Since retiring to Durango in 2000, Chuck has remained deeply engaged in community service and education.

  • 9/11 Response Efforts (2001): Spent October 2001 in New York City with the Red Cross response teams assisting in recovery efforts following the attacks.
  • Mesa Verde National Park: Founded the award-winning community volunteer program at Mesa Verde National Park in 2005, where he continues to volunteer and serve on the Board of the Mesa Verde Museum Association.
  • Fort Lewis College: Has been an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Physics and Engineering at Fort Lewis College for the past 15 years. Also serves on the Fort Lewis College Foundation Board, supporting the institution’s growth and academic mission.

Chuck's legacy is defined by his commitment to education, engineering innovation, and community service, making a lasting impact both professionally and personally.