ELEVATING THE WORLD OF ENGINEERING AND INSPIRING THE FUTURE

Kejin Wang, professor in geotechnical and materials engineering, says doing what you love is the key to success. Her unwavering passion for her field has earned her the title of distinguished professor, the first woman to ever receive this honor in the Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering (CCEE).

Wang’s journey towards this accomplishment is rooted in her profound love for her work. Throughout her career, she has consistently pursued her passion for construction materials, dedicating herself to extensive research and cutting-edge projects.

Wang’s journey as a Cyclone began in 2000, joining CCEE because of the department’s established relationship with the Iowa DOT, and reputation of innovative work in concrete pavement. Her exceptional contributions have solidified her reputation on a national and international scale, making her a distinguished figure in her field.

Over the years, Wang has led more than 70 research projects, securing a total of approximately $20 million in funding, and over 200 journal publications since 2000. Her expertise encompasses a broad range of areas, including cementitious formulation, heat of cement hydration, concrete mix design, microstructure characterization and performance and durability evaluation.

She has conducted significant research on advanced concrete technologies, including 3D printing concrete, selfhealing concrete, self-consolidating concrete, ultra-high performance concrete and use of nanoparticles in concrete. She has also worked extensively on concrete sustainability, including the use of low carbon cement, bio-cement and waste materials in concrete and use of carbon dioxide to treat concrete materials and to cure concrete products.

“When I’ve had the opportunity to guide people beginning their engineering careers, I tell them to be persistent and always do what you love,” Wang said. “I believe it is important to engage in work that genuinely interests you if you want to make a meaningful impact.”

“Whatever you do, just be persistent,” Wang said. “You want to work hard and collaborate with others along the way. Through helping others, you will discover who you are.”