Kody Powell

Kody Powell is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Utah's College of Engineering, with an additional appointment as Adjunct Associate Professor in Mechanical Engineering. He joined the University of Utah in January 2016 as an Assistant Professor and was promoted to Associate Professor in July 2022. Powell earned his BS in Chemical Engineering from the University of Utah in 2009 and his PhD from the University of Texas at Austin in 2013.

His research focuses on energy systems, process optimization, and decarbonization technologies, with particular emphasis on hydrogen production, steel decarbonization, nuclear hybrid energy systems, and smart grid integration. Powell has published extensively on topics including thermal energy storage, industrial process optimization, and machine learning applications for energy systems. His work demonstrates a strong connection between theoretical modeling and practical industrial applications.

Powell serves as co-director of the University of Utah's Intermountain Industrial Assessment Center (IIAC), one of over 35 U.S. Department of Energy IACs that conducts energy efficiency assessments for manufacturers. His research has significant practical impact, with IIAC assessments reportedly saving businesses $20,000 to $600,000 annually in energy costs while reducing emissions.

• Engineering Educator of the Year, Utah Engineers Council (2023)
• John A. and Amy B. Williams Endowed Professorship (2023)
• Multiple Excellence in Applied Energy Engineering Research awards from the Department of Energy (2017-2023)
• Green Business Award, Utah Business Magazine (2022)
• Futures Issue of AIChE Journal Honoree (2022)

Powell has secured substantial research funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency, Dominion Energy, Pacificorp, and the Utah Governor's Office of Energy Development. His grants portfolio includes work on industrial assessment centers, renewable natural gas, building energy analysis, and smart energy management in industrial systems. He has also engaged in community outreach, including energy efficiency presentations to high school students and partnerships with external organizations to promote energy efficiency throughout Utah.