Julia Keen

Julia Keen is a Professor of Architectural Engineering and Construction Science at Kansas State University and holds the Bob and Betty Tointon Engineering Endowed Chair. Her scholarly profile reflects a sustained integration of engineering practice, teaching excellence, and leadership in the built environment, with a focus on HVAC systems, energy performance, and engineering education. Dr. Keen earned her B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. from Kansas State University, with her doctoral work in Curriculum and Instruction informing a research agenda that bridges technical engineering topics with pedagogy, student success, and workforce development. She is a licensed Professional Engineer in Kansas and Iowa and holds ASHRAE's High-Performance Building Design Professional (HBDP) certification, underscoring her expertise in high-performance buildings and energy systems. Her scholarship spans both technical and educational domains, including indoor air quality, HVAC system design, energy efficiency, and the recruitment and retention of underrepresented groups in engineering. She has co-authored to foundational industry texts, including High-Performance Buildings Simplified and Principles of Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning, and has published in leading venues such as ASHRAE Journal, Indoor Air, and the Journal of Architectural Engineering. Her work frequently connects engineering systems to broader societal challenges, including sustainability, public health, and workforce development. Dr. Keen's teaching and mentoring record is extensive, with development of numerous undergraduate and graduate courses in mechanical systems, energy codes, and integrated building design. She has advised dozens of graduate students and led undergraduate research initiatives. Her commitment to student success is reflected in a wide array of teaching, advising, and diversity-focused awards at the university, college, and national levels. A recognized leader in the profession, Dr. Keen has held significant roles within ASHRAE, including Vice President and Director-at-Large on the Board of Directors, as well as chairing major committees related to publications, education, and standards. Her contributions have been honored with distinctions such as ASHRAE Fellow, the Exceptional Service Award, and the E.K. Campbell Teaching Award. She is also an active global lecturer and educator, delivering invited presentations and professional development programs on HVAC, ethics, leadership, and workforce engagement. Overall, Dr. Keen's scholarly profile is characterized by the integration of technical expertise, educational innovation, and professional leadership, with a sustained emphasis on advancing both the performance of buildings and the inclusivity of the engineering profession.