Trustee Marta Rambaud: A Renaissance Woman of Education, Innovation, and Adventure

Marta Rambaud, an accomplished engineer with extensive experience, has seamlessly integrated her wealth of knowledge and passion for education throughout her tenure on the Brookdale Community College Board of Trustees. Her journey, which began as a physicist in Spain and evolved into an esteemed engineer in the United States, has now transitioned to encompass a role as a dedicated educator and advocate for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education. Her multifaceted brilliance is evident in her diverse professional trajectory.

With a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, and dual bachelor’s and master’s degrees in applied physics from Madrid Autonoma University in Spain, Rambaud’s academic foundation, underscored by a GPA of 3.8, laid the foundation for a career characterized by an unwavering commitment to educational excellence, innovation, and a spirit of adventure.

With over 25 years of experience in the electronics and telecommunications industry, acquired at Bell Labs and Lucent Technologies, Rambaud spearheaded groundbreaking projects in state-of-the-art digital technology. Her expertise and ingenuity propelled her to the forefront of technological innovation, with notable contributions ranging from high-speed deep sub-micron semiconductor technologies to the development of 3G-4G wireless radio networks, earning her recognition as a pioneer in her field. Furthermore, she has authored articles for seven technical publications and holds five patents.

In addition to her illustrious career, Rambaud’s thirst for knowledge and her desire to inspire the next generation is clear, as she connects the field of technology and education. Her journey into education wasn’t a sudden pivot but rather a natural evolution driven by her desire to contribute back to her field. She reflected on her transition, stating, “It’s not rare for Bell Labs researchers to go a bit into university, bringing back and teaching what they’ve learned, especially in this age of advancing technology.”

As a physics and engineering/technology teacher, she has inspired and mentored numerous students across various colleges and high schools, aiming to ignite their interest in pursuing further education in engineering. Among the high schools she has worked with are High Technology, Trinity Hall, Keansburg, Middletown South, and Rumson Fair Haven. Her teaching extends beyond traditional classrooms to include diverse settings, such as Rutgers University and Brookdale Community College. At Rutgers, as an adjunct professor, she shared her expertise in very large integrated circuit design and testing methodologies, playing a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of engineering talent. Additionally, her tenure at Brookdale as an adjunct professor of Physics emphasized her commitment to fostering academic excellence and inclusivity through courses in mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, and magnetism.

Her extensive background in physics and engineering has uniquely positioned her to bring a fresh perspective to the boardroom. Rambaud’s tenure on the board has been marked by her service on various committees, including governance, audit, and executive, where she has demonstrated a keen eye for efficiency and a drive to get things done.

Reflecting on her role on the board, Rambaud emphasized her admiration for Brookdale Community College’s commitment to its students and the broader community. “I love Brookdale,” she exclaimed. “It does a great service to the community. It is a very good college.” Her tenure on the board gave her an understanding of the intricacies involved in running a college, from organizational structures to facility management, offering her a newfound appreciation for the task’s magnitude.

During her tenure, Rambaud faced challenges head-on. “When I joined the board, Brookdale was facing a tough time. However, through perseverance and strategic leadership, we managed to navigate these difficulties and emerge stronger. The appointment of President Stout further solidified our progress, as his dedication and vision have greatly contributed to Brookdale’s success.”

“The institution has adapted to the rapidly changing landscape of education, embracing dynamism and innovation,” Rambaud continued. “Despite initial concerns about the pace of change, witnessing Brookdale evolve into a more dynamic and adaptable institution has been immensely gratifying. Credit is also due to the faculty and staff who have embraced these changes, especially in the wake of challenges like the Covid pandemic. The transition to online learning and other adjustments have been rewarding and successful, reflecting the commitment of everyone involved to the mission of Brookdale.”

Beyond traditional academia, Rambaud’s commitment to education extended to the slopes of Park City, Utah, where she was a ski instructor for the Park City Ski Corporation. Achieving Professional Ski Instructors of America association Level 2 certification, she imparted her expertise to students of all ages, instilling confidence, and skill on the snow-covered slopes.

Rambaud’s dedication to philanthropy and community service further underscores her altruistic spirit. Volunteering with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, she has helped build homes for families in need, embodying the values of compassion and social responsibility. Additionally, her role as a tutor for children in math and science reflects her commitment to empowering future generations through education.

In her pursuits, Rambaud seamlessly integrates a diverse array of skills and interests, from her proficiency in computer software and hardware to her expertise in circuit design and testing methodologies. Fluent in Spanish and French, she embraces multiculturalism and diversity, enriching her interactions and experiences.

Looking back on her remarkable journey Rambaud said, “Through my role as a trustee, I discovered that my dedication to education and empowering women allowed me to find true fulfillment in my journey. Success, to me, means finding joy in each day, helping whenever possible, and striving for excellence. While mistakes are inevitable, it is important to acknowledge them, learn from them, and keep moving forward with a positive mindset. Embracing positivity and lending a helping hand whenever possible is incredibly gratifying. Remember, life is an ongoing journey of learning and growth, shaped by our past experiences and our continuous pursuit of knowledge”