Richard Onyancha

Richard Onyancha is the Department Head of Mechanical Engineering and a Professor at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. His academic career includes a Fulbright Scholarship at Zambia's Copperbelt University (2015-2016), where he contributed to curriculum review, faculty mentorship, and industry partnerships. Previously, he worked as a design engineer for Kenya's Ministry of Public Works and a managing consultant at MEACEOM Consultants. He co-founded Rose-Hulman's Independent Projects and Research Opportunities Program.

Education:

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, University of New Hampshire (2007)
• MS in Mechanical Engineering, Brunel University, London (1990)
• BS in Mechanical Engineering, University of Nairobi, Kenya (1987)

Research interests focus on manufacturing, solid mechanics, and metrology, with additional emphasis on engineering education and spatial visualization skills. His work spans global engineering challenges, including sustainable energy systems and diversity initiatives in STEM. Recent publications address Zambian engineering education trends, solar home systems comparisons, and women's representation in engineering.

Awards: Fulbright Scholar (2015-2016).

Advising & Grants: No explicit student advisees listed, but his professional activities include proposal development and international field studies coordination. Collaborations with Zambian industries and Kenyan NGOs reflect his engagement with applied research and community development.

He co-founded the Independent Projects and Research Opportunities Program, fostering student-led research. His teaching emphasizes CAD, solid mechanics, and system dynamics.