Chemical Engineering

Welcome from the Chair

Welcome to the Department of Chemical Engineering at Tennessee Tech University.

Chemical engineering is a field built around transformation: transforming raw materials into useful products, scientific ideas into practical technologies, and student potential into professional impact. At Tennessee Tech, we are proud to prepare chemical engineers who are technically strong, professionally adaptable, and ready to contribute to the needs of industry, research, and society.

Our department combines the advantages of a rigorous engineering education with the close connections of a student-centered program. Students learn core chemical engineering principles in the classroom and then apply them through laboratories, computational tools, team projects, undergraduate research, internships, co-ops, and senior design. Along the way, they work closely with faculty, build relationships with classmates, and develop the problem-solving skills needed for modern engineering practice.

We also offer students opportunities to shape their education around areas of growing importance. Our undergraduate concentrations in Biomolecular Engineering, Energy and the Environment, and Chemical Process Manufacturing connect chemical engineering fundamentals to biotechnology, health-related technologies, sustainable energy, environmental protection, advanced manufacturing, and the safe, efficient production of materials and products.

Research is an important part of our department’s identity. Faculty and students work on problems connected to materials, energy, separations, biotechnology, environmental systems, process engineering and other areas that address real-world challenges. Undergraduate and graduate students have opportunities to participate in research, present their work, collaborate with faculty and prepare for careers in industry, national laboratories, graduate school and professional practice.

Just as importantly, Chemical Engineering at Tennessee Tech is a community. Our students are active in professional organizations, design projects, outreach, competitions, and service. Our alumni work across a wide range of industries and continue to demonstrate the value of a Tennessee Tech chemical engineering education.

I invite you to explore our website, visit our department, and learn more about the opportunities available here. Whether you are a prospective student, a current student, an alumnus, an industry partner, or a friend of the department, we are glad you are here.

Sincerely,

Kevin N. West, Ph.D.

Professor and Chair,
Department of Chemical Engineering

kwest@tntech.edu