Heather Kirkvold

Heather Kirkvold is an Associate Professor in the College of Integrated Science & Engineering at James Madison University (JMU). Her professional profile integrates advanced engineering research with pedagogical innovation, focusing on materials durability and stakeholder-driven infrastructure planning. She teaches courses including ENGR 431/432 (Engineering Design V/VI), ENGR 314 (Mechanics and Materials), and ENGR 498 (Green Building and Construction).

• Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, University of Kansas (2009)
• M.S. in Civil Engineering, University of Kansas (2005)
• B.S. in Civil Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (1997)

Her research spans two primary domains: concrete materials science, including bridge deck testing, soundwall durability, and construction methods for enhanced infrastructure longevity; and engineering education, emphasizing entrepreneurial mindset learning (EML), problem-based learning (PBL), and student transitions into professional practice. She also contributes to curriculum development for first-year engineering programs and large-scale infrastructure decision-making frameworks.

Prior to joining JMU, Dr. Kirkvold served as a Concrete Research Engineer at the Kansas Department of Transportation, where she optimized concrete pavement durability, and as a structural engineering designer at The Schemmer Associates, Inc. in Omaha, NE. Her teaching portfolio includes ENGR 322 (Engineering Project Management) and ENGR 112 (Introduction to Engineering Decision Making).