From classrooms in Storrs to the forefront of the nation’s undersea defense industry, Matthew Olander has built a career defined by technical excellence, leadership, and service. This spring, the UConn College of Engineering will recognize that journey as Olander returns as the 2026 commencement speaker and an honorary degree recipient.

Matthew Olander is the senior vice president of programs and engineering at General Dynamics Electric Boat in Groton, Connecticut, and a UConn Engineering alum.

Olander said he never once imagined he would be honored in this way.

“My entire career journey has been built on the humble task of constantly learning and growing to be a reliable and dedicated team member committed to a greater cause than myself,” Olander said.

Olander received his dual bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and metallurgy from UConn in 1994, and later received his master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 2002.

Olander said the honor has led him to reflect on his entire life journey.

“There are two decisions that have changed my life for the better in immeasurable ways –  marrying my high school sweetheart, Kelly, and going to UConn for an engineering degree,” Olander said. “When I reflect on my career journey and this honor, I am struck by how well UConn prepared me to grow as a technical expert and as a leader in one of the most complex industries designing the world’s most sophisticated platforms.”

Olander is a member of the University of Connecticut Academy of Distinguished Engineers.

“Matthew Olander exemplifies the very best of UConn Engineering—technical excellence paired with a deep sense of purpose and leadership,” says JC Zhao, dean of the College of Engineering. “His career reflects not only the strength of a UConn education, but also the impact our graduates can have on critical national priorities. We are proud to honor him as both a distinguished alumnus and an inspiring role model for our graduates.”

Olander joined Electric Boat as a mechanical engineer working propulsion shafting on the Virginia-class program, and later as the lead system engineer for a one-of-a-kind research and development submarine. He then progressed through various programmatic and engineering leadership positions. The majority of Olander’s career has been focused on developing and delivering new nuclear submarine capability to the United States Navy. Olander became vice president of engineering in 2021 prior to his current role.

In his current role, Olander leads the development, design, engineering, construction, testing, fleet support, and program management of every modern U.S. submarine program.

“Early in my career, I routinely volunteered for the tougher jobs,” says Olander. “That meant longer days and sacrifices, but I learned more about applying engineering principles I had learned at UConn to solve complex problems. Little did I know at the time that it would put me on a trajectory to ride on submarines during sea trials, develop new capabilities for our Navy, speak directly to members of Congress, and shake the hand of a former U.S. president. I am glad I tried something new and uncomfortable. I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything else.”

Olander is also a strong advocate and supporter of the National Institute for Undersea Vehicle Technology (NIUVT), which his engineering team at Electric Boat supports in collaboration with UConn and University of Rhode Island.

NIUVT is a university-industry alliance that partners with the Navy to advance the capabilities of the next-generation U.S. undersea fleet by training innovative engineers and accelerating the research and development of enabling technologies.

“Matt has been an extraordinary partner in advancing the mission of NIUVT and strengthening the connection between industry, academia, and national defense,” says Richard Christenson, NIUVT director. “His leadership has helped create meaningful opportunities for students and faculty to support our defense industry in Connecticut, while accelerating innovation that strengthens the security, well‑being, and long‑term prosperity of the United States.”

Olander will give his commencement address in the UConn Engineering commencement ceremony on May 9, sharing words of wisdom with UConn Engineering graduates and their families.

“If you only do what you know you love right now, you are likely limiting your opportunities,” Olander says. “Get out there and explore, try the unexpected. You may have to slog into the unknown to find your true calling and match your talents and passions to a career path.”