For Lane Miller, supporting NC State University’s Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) is more than a philanthropic act—it’s a heartfelt tribute to the institution that shaped his career, his family, and his enduring belief in the power of education.
Miller, a distinguished alumnus, recently made a significant gift to Professor Greg Buckner’s lab as part of NC State’s 2025 Day of Giving. His contribution underscores a deep commitment to fostering innovation and ensuring future generations of engineers have access to the same rigorous education that propelled his own success.
“I owe it to the department. They helped me be who I am,” Miller said.
A Lifelong Connection
Miller’s journey with NC State began in the early 1980s when he relocated to North Carolina to work at Lord Corporation, a global leader in motion and vibration control technologies. He pursued his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering while working full-time, a non-traditional path that required immense dedication.
“The quality of the teaching, the quality of the classes, and the flexibility of the faculty to work with me in kind of a non-traditional way meant a lot,” he said. “I was working, had a wife, and my daughter was born as I was taking my oral examinations. It was a challenging but rewarding time.”
Despite his busy schedule, Miller always maintained strong ties to the university, both as an alumnus and through his professional work. Over the years, he remained actively involved, serving on advisory boards and forging connections between NC State and industry partners.
“I have always maintained contact with the department, regardless of who was at the top. I’ve seen firsthand how NC State graduates contribute to the industry, and I’m always impressed,” Miller said.
A Family Legacy
Miller’s commitment to NC State took on an even more personal dimension when his son, Sam, pursued a Ph.D. under Professor Buckner’s guidance. The experience solidified Miller’s high regard for Buckner’s dedication to students and research.
“I always thought Greg was a great graduate advisor. He cares about his students, and they produce great research results,” Miller said. “An element of this gift is, of course, Greg being an excellent advisor to my son. But the majority of my motivation is all the students he has mentored—many of whom worked for me at Lord Corporation.”
Throughout his career, Miller recognized the vital link between a strong educational foundation and success in engineering and business. As the former Vice President of Global Technology at Lord, he championed investment in research and development, knowing firsthand how critical well-educated engineers are to industry advancement.
“The linkage between our success and the quality of our engineers and scientists was so obvious. That’s why I always maintained close relationships with NC State and other universities,” he said.
Faith in the Future
Miller’s recent gift is a direct investment in the future of engineering at NC State. His decision to donate without restrictions stems from his deep trust in Buckner’s leadership and the department’s mission.
“I just have confidence in Greg that he’s going to use the money wisely,” Miller said. “I told them I don’t want to place any constraints on how it’s spent. He knows what his needs are better than I do.”
Miller believes that alumni play a crucial role in sustaining the university’s excellence, particularly in research and innovation.
“It’s critical to the country and to humanity that we continue to advance technologies,” he said. “You don’t do that without highly educated, highly motivated professional scientists and engineers.”
While he acknowledges challenges in higher education, such as political pressures and funding uncertainties, Miller remains optimistic about NC State’s trajectory.
“Clearly, dealing with increased enrollment is critical, and the department must continue to be both a fine research institution and a fine educational institution,” he said. “But in the end, the real product of NC State is its students—their impact on the world is what truly matters.”
Miller’s faith in NC State students is unwavering, a sentiment shaped by years of working alongside graduates who impressed him with their skills and work ethic.
“I meet these kids, and all I can think of is, ‘Oh my goodness, I am so glad I don’t have to compete against these guys,’” he said. “The quality of the hires we had from NC State was outstanding. Anyone who thinks today’s students don’t measure up hasn’t met these engineers.”
As Miller enjoys his well-earned retirement in Montana, skiing in the mountains and reflecting on a career well spent, his legacy at NC State endures—through his service, his advocacy, and now, his generous gift to the next generation of engineers.
“It’s a way of saying thank you,” he said. “And I hope it helps keep NC State strong for years to come.”