Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Nilesh Joshi, Department of Engineering and Technology

Dr. Nilesh Joshi was born in Maharashtra state, India, and grew up in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India, a city known for its rich history and proximity to world-famous United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites like the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. He earned a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Mechanical Engineering from the Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology in Nagpur, India. He then pursued a Master of Engineering (M.E.) degree in Manufacturing Engineering, and a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.), both from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He obtained his doctorate in systems engineering from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Dr. Joshi indicated, “My interest in this field developed from a desire to connect engineering principles with practical outcomes, and to contribute to engineering education. Growing up in Aurangabad, I was exposed to both traditional skills and the growth of manufacturing. This led me to study mechanical engineering, then manufacturing engineering and an M.B.A. to gain knowledge of both the technical and business aspects of production. Ultimately, my Ph.D. in Systems Engineering provided a way to integrate these areas, allowing me to work towards improving engineering practices and preparing students for the field.”

Dr. Joshi began his career at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) in January 2025 and he serves as Chair of the Department of Engineering and Technology, Professor, and the Director of the Manufacturing Engineering Program. One reason he was drawn to EKU was because it gave him the opportunity to apply his experience to help the engineering programs grow. And, because he lives in Lexington, Kentucky, working in Richmond was another positive factor for him. He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge about program development, and establishing a center for manufacturing systems, as well as the accreditation processes. He is interested in continuing the development of programs and providing support to students.

When asked what he likes about EKU, he replied, “What I appreciate most about EKU is the emphasis on a healthy work-life balance, which is important to me. Professionally, I am also drawn to EKU’s commitment to developing strong academic programs and its focus on student success.”

“What I like most about my job is the opportunity to play a role in shaping the future of the Manufacturing Engineering program here at EKU. I enjoy the process of curriculum development, collaborating with faculty, and providing leadership to build a strong and relevant program for our students,” Dr. Joshi said when asked what he likes most about his job. He finds the greatest job satisfaction in seeing students succeed and contributing to the department’s growth. He hopes to continue developing the engineering and technology programs at EKU and connecting with industry to create opportunities for students.

Dr. Joshi’s wife, Dr. Smita Joshi, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at EKU, and they feel very lucky that they are both able to be a part of the EKU community. They have two children, a son, Ishaan, who is in the 8th grade, and a daughter, Gauri, who is in the 10th grade.

In his free time, Dr. Joshi enjoys spending time reading about his favorite subjects, including finance, business, biographies, and technology, and he enjoys watching films and documentaries. Additionally, being in nature helps him unwind.

“What I like most about my job is the opportunity to play a role in shaping the future of the Manufacturing Engineering program here at EKU. I enjoy the process of curriculum development, collaborating with faculty, and providing leadership to build a strong and relevant program for our students.” – Dr. Nilesh Joshi