Photo of Tim Dengler

Leading with purpose: 5 questions with Tim Dengler, associate vice president for strategy and operations

When Tim Dengler graduated from college, he was eager to gain workplace experience. For the Buffalo, New York, native, the U.S. Navy provided the perfect setting. Dengler enlisted as a civil engineer corps officer and quickly learned the ins and outs of facilities operations, construction and maintenance—all skills he’s applying today as Case Western Reserve University’s associate vice president for strategy and operations. 

As he makes his mark in the Department of Campus Planning & Facilities Management, Dengler is grateful that his military background offered firsthand experience navigating complex organizations. His work as a junior officer from 2012 to 2018 led him to the rank of lieutenant colonel, allowing him the opportunity to lead teams of sailors while serving his country.

Of the many valuable experiences he gained in the Navy, Dengler most credits mentorship from senior officers for showing him how to lead teams effectively. Among those mentors? Dean Tufts, the university’s vice president for campus planning and facilities management.

“The foundational skills I learned and the experiences I gained while I was in the Navy have shaped me into the person I am today,” he said. “When I saw CWRU was hiring for this position that aligned with my career goals, I decided to jump at the opportunity to work with Dean again.”

Making an impact

Before arriving at Case Western Reserve, Dengler served as the assistant director of Planning, Design and Construction Management for Elon University in North Carolina. He led the department’s process improvement, including implementing a cloud-based construction management system, instituting new digital tools to better document the design and construction process and increasing collaboration among university stakeholders during the planning, design and construction phases.

But there’s more to Tim Dengler than just overseeing campus planning design. 

With a passion for trying new foods, coaching youth sports and a career rooted in leadership and innovation, Dengler brings a unique blend of personal and professional experiences to his role. 

When asked about his proudest professional achievement, Dengler recalls the graduation of the first employee from the skilled trades apprenticeship program he developed at his previous institution. The program was designed to provide a training pathway into critical skilled trades roles for individuals who lacked the resources or opportunities to learn these skills. 

“After nearly four years of both on-the-job training and classroom instruction, it was incredibly rewarding to see this individual grow professionally and graduate from the program,” Dengler shared, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities that can transform lives.

His career has not been without its challenges. One of the most difficult projects he tackled was a phased renovation of a building housing Elon University’s chemistry, biology and environmental science departments. With no swing space available, the renovations had to be completed over several summers to avoid disrupting classes or research. Creating wet lab spaces in areas that were formerly classrooms—coupled with tight schedules and rising construction costs—added layers of complexity. Dengler overcame these challenges by fostering clear communication, building a strong team, and making timely decisions. 

“In the end, watching students, faculty and staff enjoy the spaces we had created was the most rewarding part,” he reflected.

Looking ahead

For future goals, Dengler is focused on both professional and personal growth. At Case Western Reserve, he aims to forge strong connections with his colleagues and continue developing as a leader. On a personal level, he strives to be a supportive husband and father while continually learning more about the world around him.

When it comes to defining success, Dengler’s perspective has evolved over time. Initially, he saw success as achieving specific goals, such as completing a project or winning a game. Now, however, he views success as making a positive impact on the world around him. 

“It’s about doing the small things every day that contribute positively to your environment,” Dengler explained. He believes these consistent, smaller successes have a more profound and lasting impact than sporadic big wins.

Learn more about Dengler in this week’s five questions.

1. Name a spot in Cleveland you haven’t checked out yet, but would like to see.

A spot in Cleveland I need to check out is Playhouse Square. 

2. Are you an early bird or a night owl?

I am certainly an early bird, up at 4:30 a.m. every morning so I can get a workout in before the day begins.

3. What is an interesting fact about you that most people don’t know?

I love trying unfamiliar foods from other cultures. I really like to share these culinary discoveries I have made with other people, so I enjoy spending time cooking for those who are closest to me.

4. From where do you draw your biggest inspiration?

I am inspired by people who have pushed boundaries and left their comfort zone to achieve their goals or do something that they truly believe in. I am inspired by the stories of the innovators, pioneers, entrepreneurs, activists and immigrants, or the friend who decides to change careers and go back to school.

5. What’s your favorite thing about Case Western Reserve?

My favorite thing about Case Western Reserve is its location within the City of Cleveland. The proximity to other world-class institutions, cultural resources and Lake Erie is unparalleled. The vibrancy of a city constantly on the move really energizes me and makes me excited to come to work every day.