Andrew Gillen

Dr. Andrew Gillen is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the First Year Engineering Program at Northeastern University, affiliated with the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the John Martinson Honors Program. He holds a PhD in Engineering Education from Virginia Tech and a BS in Civil Engineering from Northeastern University. His research focuses on engineering education, particularly in areas like university-industry partnerships, culturally relevant STEM outreach, and disability inclusion in engineering. Dr. Gillen co-founded the Disability Alliance, an employee affinity group at Northeastern.

Education:

• PhD in Engineering Education, Virginia Tech (2019)
• BS in Civil Engineering, Northeastern University (2016)

Research interests include pedagogical innovation, K-12 engineering education, and fostering equitable access to engineering fields. His work often involves collaboration with industry and community organizations to enhance educational outcomes and diversity in STEM. Recent publications explore public opinion analysis of infrastructure projects, mindfulness in engineering classrooms, and systematic reviews of university-industry partnerships.

Awards include the 2025 Excellence in Mentoring Award, 2025 Outstanding Teachers of First Year Engineering Students Award, and 2020 Fellowship of the UK Higher Education Academy (FHEA). He has secured grants such as the NSF-funded 'Developing Accessible Pathways to Civil Engineering Industry for Students With Disabilities.'

Advising and grants highlight his commitment to student success, with involvement in PEAK Experiences and Undergraduate Research Fellowship programs. He collaborates on initiatives like the Disability Alliance and interorganizational partnerships to bridge industry and academia. Dr. Gillen also contributes to the Queer + STEM Anthology, blending creative and scholarly works on identity in STEM.