Russell Meller
About Russell Meller
Russell Meller is the Chief Scientist at FORTNA, where he has worked since 2024. He is recognized for his contributions to logistics and distribution systems, including his election to the National Academy of Engineering in 2020.
Current Role at Fortna
Russell Meller serves as the Chief Scientist at Fortna, a position he has held since 2024. He is based in Louisville, Colorado, United States. In this role, he focuses on advancing the company's research and development initiatives, leveraging his extensive background in industrial engineering and logistics.
Previous Academic Positions
Russell Meller has held several academic positions prior to his current role. He was a Professor at the University of Arkansas from 2005 to 2013 and an Associate Professor at Auburn University from 1992 to 1999. Additionally, he served as a Visiting Distinguished Professor at Graz University of Technology from 2011 to 2015 and as a Professor at Virginia Tech from 1999 to 2005.
Achievements and Recognition
In 2020, Russell Meller was elected to the National Academy of Engineering for his contributions to creating a scalable design methodology for distribution centers. He has also been recognized with the Reed-Apple Award from the Material Handling Education Foundation for his contributions to the field of logistics and distribution.
Contributions to Fortna
During his tenure at Fortna, Russell Meller has played a significant role in various capacities, including Vice President of Solution Design and Research & Development from 2013 to 2021 and Principal Scientist from 2021 to 2024. He led the development of the FORTNA WES™ Smart Order Grouping Algorithm, which has been implemented to enhance operational efficiency for Fortna and its clients.
Educational Background
Russell Meller holds a Ph.D. in Industrial & Operations Engineering from the University of Michigan, where he also completed his Master's of Engineering. He earned his Bachelor's of Engineering from the same institution. He studied at Michigan Technological University for one year, further enriching his academic foundation.