Early in his career, Arthur Hansen worked as an aeronautical research scientist for NASA while also teaching at John Carroll University. We would later serve as chairman of the University of Michigan’s mechanical engineering department before being named dean of Georgia Tech’s College of Engineering in 1966. 

Three years later, Hansen was named president of the Institute. His three-year term (1969-1971) was highlighted by new facilities for civil engineering, chemistry, physics, and student activities.

Hansen left Georgia Tech to become president at his alma mater, Purdue University, and served in the role until 1982. He later became chancellor of the Texas A&M University System.