Chinedum Okwudire

Chinedum Okwudire is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Integrative Systems and Design at the University of Michigan's College of Engineering, where he holds the Miller Faculty Scholar title and directs the Smart and Sustainable Automation Research Lab. His work bridges advanced manufacturing, controls, and sustainable systems design.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia (2009)
• MASc in Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia (2005)
• BSc in Mechanical Engineering, Middle East Technical University, Ankara (2003)

Okwudire's research centers on Manufacturing Automation with applications in additive manufacturing, nano-positioning, machining, and distributed systems. He develops novel control algorithms to enhance precision, speed, and energy efficiency in manufacturing processes while reducing hardware costs. His work spans Controls, Mechatronics, Robotics, Dynamics & Vibrations, and Sustainable Manufacturing, with significant impact on 3D printing and smart manufacturing systems.

His publications reveal a strong trend toward algorithm-driven manufacturing optimization, particularly in vibration compensation for 3D printers and nanopositioning systems. Recent work emphasizes distributed manufacturing resilience and energy-efficient machining, demonstrating practical solutions that double printing speeds and reduce cycle times by 38%.

His extensive recognition includes:

• Rexford E. Hall Innovation Excellence Award (2025)
• SME Education Award (2024)
• ASME Fellow (2023)
• Miller Faculty Scholar Award (2022)
• NSF CAREER Award (2014)
• 25 Leaders Transforming Manufacturing by SME (2022)

Okwudire mentors award-winning students including Molong Duan and Deokkyun Yoon (2014 Best Poster Awards), Keval Ramani (2015 Best Paper Award), and Leqing Cui (2017 ASME Best Paper Award). His research is funded by the NSF CAREER Award and Miller Faculty Scholar Award, supporting innovations in smart manufacturing algorithms and sustainable automation. He leads the Smart and Sustainable Automation Research Lab, which develops commercializable technologies like Ulendo's vibration-compensation software that doubles 3D printing speeds without hardware modifications.