Ryan Kemnitz

Lt Col Ryan Kemnitz, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor and Deputy Department Head in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. He serves within the Graduate School of Engineering and Management under Air University, contributing to advanced aerospace and materials research and education for military officers.

Education:

• BS in Mechanical Engineering, United States Air Force Academy, 2008
• MS in Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, 2012
• PhD in Materials Science, Air Force Institute of Technology, 2018

Ryan Kemnitz’s research is centered on advanced manufacturing and materials for aerospace applications. His work emphasizes additive manufacturing of metal alloys, particularly optimizing laser scanning strategies and process parameters in selective laser melting. He investigates the mechanical and microstructural properties of additively manufactured materials, focusing on nickel alloy 718 and polymer composites. A significant portion of his research explores the effects of space environments—such as UV-C radiation and simulated low Earth orbit conditions—on carbon nanotube-based materials, aiming to develop durable, lightweight components for space systems.

His recent publications (2018–2020) reveal a strong trend in materials for extreme environments and process-structure-property relationships in additive manufacturing. These works span journals such as Materials & Design, Materials Today Communications, and Polymer Testing, reflecting interdisciplinary research at the intersection of mechanical engineering, materials science, and aerospace systems.

Professional Affiliations:

• Tau Beta Pi
• AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics)

Ryan Kemnitz engages in collaborative research, co-authoring studies with colleagues at AFIT and other institutions. While specific grants and advising roles are not detailed in the text, his publication record suggests active involvement in funded research projects related to space materials and advanced manufacturing. His leadership as Deputy Department Head indicates administrative and academic mentorship responsibilities within AFIT’s engineering programs.

He contributes to the development of next-generation aerospace materials through both experimental characterization and process innovation, supporting Air Force missions in space and advanced propulsion systems.