College of Applied Science and Technology Dean Dr. Chad McEvoy has named Dr. Josh Brown as chair of the Department of Technology, effective July 1, 2025.
Brown has worked at Illinois State University since 2008 and is currently a professor of Technology and Engineering Education and the assistant chairperson for the Department of Technology. He also serves as the sequence coordinator for both the Technology and Engineering Education undergraduate program and the STEM Education and Leadership graduate program.
Brown’s research focuses on STEM education, curriculum development, and engineering design in K-12 settings. He has published numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, been a principal or co-principal investigator on over $3 million in grants, co-authored the textbook Engineering Fundamentals: Design, Principles, and Careers, and presented at national and international conferences. Brown has been the recipient of many honors, including the Outstanding Professor award from the Illinois State University Student Education Association, “Big Thinker” award from the Technology Educators of Illinois, Department of Technology Research Award, University Research Initiative award from Illinois State University, College of Applied Sciences and Technology Outstanding Faculty Researcher award, and identified as a 21st Century Leader Associate by the International Technology and Engineering Education Association.
“I am looking forward to working with Josh as the next chair of the Department of Technology,” said McEvoy. “Josh’s experiences as an assistant chair and program director will help him lead this strong group of faculty, staff, and students to pursue exciting new initiatives in the future.”
Brown is active at the state and national level with many Technology and Engineering Education organizations. He is currently or has served on the executive board and the pre-service teacher education committee for the Council for Technology and Engineering Teacher Education, multiple committees with the International Technology and Engineering Education Association, as the Post-Secondary Coordinator for the Illinois Technology Student Association, and as a coordinator of events for the Technology Engineering and Education Collegiate Association.
“I’m honored to continue my career at ISU as the Chair of the Department of Technology,” said Brown. “My 17 years at ISU have been fantastic, and I am excited to work with the faculty, staff, and students to continue to move the department forward.”
