The Power of Curiosity
“The students are why we do this. Staying connected with them once they’ve graduated is one of my favorite things about my job — it’s the kind of experience I was looking for 25 years ago and it’s one of the reasons I’ve always stayed.”
— Viktor Martisovits
When Viktor Martisovits, professor of physics, arrived at Central College in 1999, he was the only full-time physics faculty member. Now 25 years later, Martisovits is surrounded by close-knit colleagues in not only physics but also engineering.
Martisovits received a combined undergraduate and master’s degree blending physics and electrical engineering in his home country of Slovakia, laying the groundwork for his multifaceted expertise. After earning his second master’s and a Ph.D. in theoretical physics from Ohio State University, Martisovits had a decision to make.
“I received my degrees at a large research university,” Martisovits says. “I was fortunate to have a professor who was very honest with me when talking about my future. He felt a lot like a salesman because competing and networking for research grants and producing publications consumed a lot of his time. Teaching was not the focus, and I wanted to be where it was.”
As Martisovits identified his passion, Central was the logical fit.
A naturally curious individual, Martisovits takes advantage of any opportunity to learn, especially if it’s prompted by a student.
“I love it when students ask questions,” he smiles. “I also love when I don’t know the answer! I can’t stop until I find it — one time, it took me two years. The student who asked the question had graduated, but I still followed up with him.”
That curiosity and drive to do and learn more helped Martisovits and Alexey Pronin, associate professor of physics, recognize the potential within physics and engineering. With support from administration and many others, Martisovits and Pronin spearheaded efforts to bridge the gap, later helping lead the work toward the program’s ABET accreditation.
“The engineering major at Central is purposefully unique,” he explains. “Rather than choosing one path, we’ve combined mechanical and electrical engineering with a foundation rooted in physics. With advances in technology, engineering is becoming more interdisciplinary, and electrical engineering playing an increasingly important role in mechanical engineering as more things go electric.”
Martisovits’ commitment to student mentorship shines brightly. He emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, perseverance and intellectual curiosity, guiding students to approach challenges with confidence and determination.
“I tell students it’s going to be hard work, but it’s a journey that brings great satisfaction and fun,” he says. “We should be learning to have fun; study because you’re curious and want to challenge yourself, not for grades. I also tell students to be broad and get another major or minor if they have time.”
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Martisovits has served on a handful of committees and as a steadfast advocate for the physics department, devoting his time and expertise to ensure its continued growth and vitality.
“I’ve come full circle,” he says. “I started in electrical engineering and I’m back in it. I will be teaching some more engineering classes.”
With 25 years of service, Martisovits has created a legacy through his relationships with students and efforts in helping shape the landscape of physics and engineering programs. He’s also unintentionally become a bit of a matchmaker.
“The general physics course has a lab that involves a lot of teamwork,” Martisovits says. “Just last fall, I had two alumni stop by to say hello and tell me that they had gotten married, and it was all because they met in a lab group. It’s not the first time it’s happened, but it’s really fun to hear and reconnect.”
“The students are why we do this. Staying connected with them once they’ve graduated is one of my favorite things about my job — it’s the kind of experience I was looking for 25 years ago and it’s one of the reasons I’ve always stayed.”