
Erin Caples
Biography
Erin Caples oversees human resources, finance, research and academic operations, communications, and events for MIT’s Department of Materials Science and Engineering. With more than 20 years of experience in higher education, health care, and the nonprofit sector, she brings a strategic and people-first approach to leadership
Before MIT, Caples spent over a decade at University of Massachusetts Lowell, where she led strategic initiatives across the College of Engineering, including faculty support, donor engagement, and large-scale STEM outreach. Earlier in her career, she directed community health, patient advocacy, and volunteer programs at Saints Medical Center in Lowell—experience that shaped her mission-driven leadership style.
Outside of work, she enjoys camping with her family, running and hiking, hiding with a good book, or finding peace in live music. She proudly wears the titles of Theater Mom and Soccer Mom to her two energetic daughters.