CSU Honors Nexus Engineering Group Co-Founder Marianne Corrao with Distinguished Alumni Award
A legacy of leadership and innovation recognized
On Nov. 21, 2024, Cleveland State University (CSU) recognized Marianne Corrao, Executive Vice President and Co-Founder of Nexus Engineering Group (Nexus), with the Washkewicz College of Engineering Distinguished Alumni Award. The honor celebrates Corrao’s transformative impact on the engineering field and her enduring commitment to mentorship and professional excellence.
Since co-founding Nexus in 2005, Corrao has been instrumental in growing the company from a two-person startup to a thriving 250-employee firm specializing in engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) services. Today, Nexus supports industries ranging from oil refining and chemicals to energy and renewables, delivering innovative solutions across a broad spectrum of technical challenges.
Corrao’s career journey began in earnest with the Standard Oil Company (Sohio), Lima Refinery, before its acquisition by BP, followed by a role at a Cleveland-based engineering firm. In 2002, she moved to Houston to join industrial gas supplier Praxair, where she expanded her expertise in the energy sector.
In 2004, an opportunity from BP set the stage for Nexus’ inception. Alongside Co-Founder Jeff Herzog, Corrao established the consultancy with a vision that extended beyond technical excellence. Their shared goal was to build a workplace culture rooted in collaboration, mentorship, and talent development—a vision that continues to define Nexus today.
Corrao’s ties to CSU run deep. A graduate of the university’s Chemical Engineering program, she credits much of her professional success to the foundation built during her time in CSU’s Cooperative Education Program. Her co-op placement at Sohio not only launched her engineering career but also sparked a lifelong passion for mentorship—a passion that now informs her leadership at Nexus.
A Celebration of Excellence
“Receiving this award from the university that helped launch my career is an incredible honor,” Corrao shared. “CSU’s commitment to experiential learning helped shape who I am as a leader. I hope to continue inspiring and guide the next generation of engineers as they enter this dynamic field.”
Her commitment to fostering emerging talent is evident in her role as executive sponsor of the Nexus co-op program, where she guides young engineers and cultivates an environment that supports professional growth. Corrao also lends her expertise to CSU as a member of the university’s engineering advisory board.
“Marianne’s visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to excellence make her a truly deserving recipient of this honor,” said Richard Schoephoerster, Ph.D., Dean of the Washkewicz College of Engineering. “Her professional accomplishments have not only advanced her field but have also elevated the reputation of CSU’s alumni community. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and even prouder to call her a Viking, knowing she continues to inspire future generations of CSU graduates.”
With her legacy of leadership and innovation, Corrao exemplifies the qualities celebrated by the Washkewicz College of Engineering Distinguished Alumni Award. Her work continues to inspire both the engineering community and the next wave of talent charting their paths in the industry.
