Rate My Professor Nilesh Joshi

Dr. Nilesh Joshi serves as Chair of the Department of Engineering and Technology, Professor, and Director of the Manufacturing Engineering Program at Eastern Kentucky University, a position he assumed in January 2025. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology in Nagpur, India. He then pursued advanced studies in the United States, earning a Master of Engineering in Manufacturing Engineering and a Master of Business Administration from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Dr. Joshi completed his Ph.D. in Systems Engineering at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia. Born in Maharashtra, India, and raised in Aurangabad, he developed an interest in engineering from exposure to traditional skills and the growth of manufacturing in his hometown. This background motivated him to connect engineering principles with practical outcomes, integrating technical expertise with business knowledge to improve engineering practices and prepare students for industry.

Prior to joining Eastern Kentucky University, Dr. Joshi held faculty positions at Morehead State University, where he served as Interim Chair of the Engineering Sciences Department and received the Distinguished Teacher Award in 2021. At Eastern Kentucky University, he leads efforts in program development, accreditation processes, and establishing initiatives like a center for manufacturing systems. He oversees graduate programs such as the Master of Science in Technology Management and fosters partnerships with industry partners including Lockheed Martin to create opportunities for students. Dr. Joshi emphasizes student success, curriculum development, and faculty collaboration to build relevant engineering programs. Additionally, he serves as Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE) from 2023 to 2026. His work at Eastern Kentucky University reflects a commitment to advancing engineering education in a supportive environment that prioritizes work-life balance and academic growth.