Jeff Ramsdell is a Professor in the Department of Sustainable Technology and the Built Environment at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC, USA. He served as the Director of the Appalachian Energy Center (AEC) for over seven years, as the Director of the Master of Science in Technology program, and the Interim Vice Provost for Research. Dr. Ramsdell has over 34 years of experience in energy related work, the first 17 years as a project manager and engineer in industry, and the last 21 years as a professor and director teaching and researching energy-centric topics. As a materials scientist and mechanical engineer, he has particular expertise at the nexus of materials and energy efficiency, including commercial and industrial systems. Dr. Ramsdell has more than 17 years of experience working with various research funding sources including federal and state agencies, foundations, municipalities, community non-profits, and private entities; and has received over $3.5 million in research funding. He was honored to serve as Appalachian State University’s first American Council on Education (ACE) Fellow in 2013-14. Dr. Ramsdell’s international experience includes leading short-term courses to the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua; and travel with students to Mexico, Brazil, South Africa, and Italy. He completed an International Scholarly Assignment at the University of the Free State in South Africa, while also collaborating with faculty at the University of Zululand (UNIZULU). Dr. Ramsdell earned a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida, a Masters of Business Administration from the Crummer School of Business at Rollins College, and a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Central Florida. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Florida.