Jeff Warfford named fellow of American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Warfford, collegiate associate professor of mechanical engineering, has earned an outstanding reputation in product research and development, bridging the fields of industry and academia.
Jeff Warfford, collegiate associate professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, has been named a fellow of the American Society of Engineers (ASME).
Warfford joined the faculty of Virginia Tech in 2022 after retiring from a nearly 30-year career at Volvo and Michelin, bringing critical expertise to educate new engineers. He has served as a rich resource of knowledge, particularly in the areas of material science, automobile engineering, and tire design with connections to industrial applications.
While at Michelin, Warfford was recognized with the company’s Industrial Quality and RDI Schools Instructor Excellence Award in both 2016 and 2018. This award was given to Warfford for taking particular care with student learning and for adopting new technologies in the learning process, based on student and administration feedback.
“Jeff's most significant impact comes from his selfless sharing of time, knowledge, and expertise,” Michelin representative Jason Bokar said. “His genuine joy in teaching and connecting with his students is what truly sets him apart and makes his contributions so special.”
Warfford has taken a lead role in mentoring students both inside and outside the classroom, serving as a faculty advisor for the student chapter of ASME. He earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from North Carolina State University. He is also an associate editor of the International Journal of Commercial Vehicles.
“Dr. Warfford’s deep knowledge of industry is a unique asset for our students,” said Brian Lattimer, department head for mechanical engineering. “The perspective of someone who has seen engineering in action brings tremendous value to the education we offer. His desire to see our graduates take that with them gives them a real advantage.”
Established in 1880, ASME aims to advance engineering for the benefit of society and currently has more than 85,000 members from 140 countries. It confers the fellow selection as a distinction recognizing outstanding engineering achievements. Warfford is one of 19 active faculty in the Department of Mechanical Engineering holding the title of American Society of Mechanical Engineers fellow.