Meet the UFFC Society President: A Conversation with Debra Coler
The IEEE Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics, and Frequency Control (UFFC) Society is entering an exciting period of growth and innovation. Following a recent conversation with UFFC President Debra, we’re sharing a closer look at her background, what drives her leadership, and where she sees the Society heading next.
A Unique Path to Leadership
Debra brings a perspective that is somewhat uncommon within UFFC, and one that is increasingly valuable. With a background in business and finance rather than engineering, her career has been rooted in industry.
She began her journey with IEEE while working at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), where she was introduced to the International Frequency Control Symposium (IFCS). That initial exposure sparked a long-standing involvement with the Society, eventually leading her to serve as AdCom Secretary, Vice President of Finance, and now President.
Alongside her volunteer leadership, Debra spent over two decades in industry at OEwaves, where she held roles across sales, operations, and executive leadership, including serving as interim CEO and later COO. Her experience spans everything from managing government contracts to supporting cutting-edge technologies used in aerospace and beyond.
Bridging Industry and Academia
Debra’s industry experience plays a key role in her vision for UFFC. She sees strong alignment between academic innovation and real-world application—and believes the Society is uniquely positioned to strengthen that connection.
“Industry and technology depend on each other,” she shared. “We want to grow our industry presence and make sure we’re bringing these technologies out into the world in meaningful ways.”
This includes increasing engagement with clinicians in medical ultrasonics and creating more opportunities for industry professionals to participate in UFFC conferences and activities.
Highlights and Milestones
Throughout her career, Debra points to several standout moments. Serving as General Chair of a major UFFC conference was a particularly meaningful leadership experience. On the industry side, she highlights contributing to NASA-related work and witnessing the growth of emerging technologies firsthand.
Her involvement with UFFC has also opened the door to global collaboration, allowing her to travel extensively and connect with members across the world.
Leading with Purpose
Becoming President was not originally part of Debra’s plan. Encouraged by fellow AdCom members, she stepped into the role after retiring from her full-time industry career, allowing her to fully dedicate time and energy to the Society.
Her leadership is grounded in both continuity and forward momentum, building on strong initiatives from past presidents while introducing new areas of focus.
Key Priorities for the Future
- Expanding Global Reach: One of Debra’s top priorities is continuing the success of outreach conferences in regions that have historically had limited access to UFFC events. These conferences are already making a meaningful impact by increasing participation and helping establish new local chapters.
- Launching STEM Initiatives: Debra is also spearheading a new STEM-focused effort in partnership with IEEE’s TryEngineering program. The goal is to bring educational tools, resources, and hands-on learning opportunities to communities around the world, especially those with limited access.|
“This is really where my heart is,” she noted. “Providing opportunities and tools in regions that don’t have them, that’s how we can make a lasting impact.”
- Exploring AI Across UFFC Technologies: Looking ahead, the Society is exploring the launch of a dedicated AI-focused conference, potentially as early as 2027. This initiative would bring together all three technical areas, ultrasonics, ferroelectrics, and frequency control, to examine how AI is shaping both research and real-world applications.
- Strengthening Community and Collaboration: Debra emphasizes the importance of collaboration, both within UFFC and across IEEE. Joint conferences, interdisciplinary sessions, and partnerships with other societies are key strategies for fostering innovation and expanding visibility.
- She also highlighted the role of the Society’s History Committee in preserving UFFC’s legacy through oral histories and archival efforts, ensuring that future generations can learn from those who built the field.
A Call to Get Involved
While UFFC has remained steady at around 3,000 members for many years, Debra is focused on growth, especially by engaging new voices.
“We’re always looking for new people, new ideas, and new energy,” she said. “That’s how we avoid getting stuck and continue to evolve.”
Through initiatives like the Volunteer Engagement Committee, members, especially students and early-career professionals, have more opportunities than ever to get involved, contribute, and shape the future of the Society.
Looking Ahead
As UFFC continues to evolve, Debra’s leadership reflects a balance of experience, curiosity, and purpose. From expanding global access to embracing emerging technologies, her vision centers on growth, not just in numbers, but in impact.
And perhaps most importantly, the future of UFFC will be shaped by those who choose to engage with it.