Kathryn Steen

Kathryn Steen is an Associate Professor in the Department of History at Drexel University, specializing in the historical intersections of technology, business, and government policy. Her research explores comparative industrialization, transnational technological exchanges, and the evolution of U.S. patent systems from 1900-1950.

Education:

• BA in History and Economics, Luther College
• MA in History of Technology, University of Delaware (Hagley Program)
• PhD in History of Technology, University of Delaware (Hagley Program)

Research Focus: Dr. Steen’s work examines how cultural, political, and economic contexts shape technological and industrial development. She uses comparative frameworks to analyze U.S. and European industrial histories since 1800, emphasizing the role of wartime demands and regulatory policy in corporate growth.

Publication Trends: Her publications, such as the book The American Synthetic Organic Chemicals Industry: War and Politics, 1910-1930, highlight the interplay between business, government, and transnational technological flows during periods of geopolitical upheaval and economic transformation.

Scientific Awards:

• 2014 Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Award for Distinguished Teaching (senior faculty level)
• 2006 Allen Rothwarf Award for Teaching Excellence (junior faculty level)
• 2015 Ralph Gomory Prize from the Business History Conference for her book

Teaching Roles: Dr. Steen teaches courses including HIST 285 (Technology in Comparative Perspective), HIST 315 (History of Capitalism), and HIST 235 (The Great War), integrating her expertise in business-government relations and transnational industrial history. She also guides graduate and undergraduate research through HIST 296 (Research Methods in History).