The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Transport is entering a new chapter in its academic evolution, continuing its tradition of excellence with a modern, future-oriented vision. During the Senate meeting of the Technical University of Moldova on October 28, 2025, Associate Professor Dr. Ion Bodnariuc, current Head of the Department of Machine Design Fundamentals, was elected Dean of FIMIT for the 2025–2030 term, with 39 votes in favor and 18 against. With an impressive academic background, the esteemed professor aims to strengthen the faculty’s standing as a center of engineering excellence and innovation at UTM.
Associate Professor Dr. Ion Bodnariuc is a dedicated professional with more than 25 years of academic experience, focused on training engineers and advancing engineering research at UTM. His previous leadership roles include serving as Vice Dean of FIMIT (2016–2021) and Head of Department (2021–present). His teaching and research efforts have been widely recognized, earning him patents and medals at international invention exhibitions, showcasing his consistent commitment and passion for his academic mission.
In his Activity Program for 2025–2030, the new dean proposes an integrated development strategy aligned with the Management Program of UTM Rector, Professor Dr. Habil. Viorel Bostan. The core vision of this plan is to foster a collegial, competitive and stimulating environment that encourages academic excellence, collaboration, and innovation.
The new dean’s plan focuses on four major strategic directions aimed at reinforcing FIMIT’s role as a hub of engineering excellence and innovation. First, he emphasizes improving the quality of education and aligning the curriculum with labor market demands and international standards. This includes continually updating bachelor’s and master’s programs, expanding partnerships for mobility and double degree opportunities, and implementing modern teaching, learning, and assessment methods, especially through increased use of digital platforms. Additionally, the development of master’s and doctoral programs will be a priority, with the introduction of new specializations tailored to the needs of the modern economy.
Another important focus is strengthening the faculty’s research capacity. Interdisciplinary activities will be encouraged, with an emphasis on engaging all faculty members in meaningful projects and attracting both national and international grants, including those from programs like Horizon Europe. There will also be a strong push to publish in internationally indexed journals and to actively involve students—from undergraduate to doctoral level—in research teams, including through the creation of a FIMIT Innovation Center.
A further key objective is the modernization of the faculty’s infrastructure and material base. The new dean intends to develop a comprehensive plan to rehabilitate and modernize FIMIT’s facilities, upgrade laboratories with advanced equipment, and attract external funding through donations, sponsorships, and investment projects. The FIMIT Library is also set to be transformed into a modern learning and research center, open to scientific dialogue and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The program also includes a crucial component focused on human resource management and community engagement. Emphasis will be placed on transparency in decision-making, interdepartmental collaboration, and continuous professional development for teaching staff, including internships at prestigious universities and companies. Particular attention will be given to strengthening the academic staff by attracting talented graduates and industry specialists into the teaching process. At the same time, the development of a sustainable partnership with students will be pursued, along with support for their civic and professional initiatives and active involvement of student associations—including BEST—in faculty life.
Mr. Ion Bodnariuc will continue the work of his predecessor, Associate Professor Dr. Sergiu Dîntu, to whom UTM’s leadership and academic community express deep gratitude for his dedication and professionalism over more than 45 years in engineering education, including the last five as Dean of FIMIT.
The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Transport is one of the most historically significant faculties of UTM, established in 1964 with the founding of the Polytechnic Institute of Chișinău. Today, FIMIT is a strong academic community with over 1,100 students at the undergraduate and master’s levels, playing a vital role in the development of the national engineering and industrial landscape.
In the spirit of continuity and excellence, the leadership of the Technical University of Moldova extends heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for success to the new dean, Associate Professor Dr. Ion Bodnariuc, in the implementation of his development strategy in harmony with the university’s managerial direction.
