Dr. Simmons passionately pursues workforce research that bridges the space between understanding the future of work in civil engineering in the United States and characterizing, measuring, and evaluating the competencies, learning technologies, and ecosystems that equip and sustain an inclusive workforce for that future. She is concerned first about the human condition and driven and inspired by what an organization can achieve by attending to the needs of its people.

Primary Research Area

Sustainable Construction Engineering – Workforce Development

Other Research Areas

Engineering Education

Research Interests

Human, technology and society interactions to transform civil engineering education and practice with an emphasis on understanding hazard recognition, competencies, satisfaction, personal resilience, organizational culture, learning & training, informal learning and social considerations.

Education

B.S., Civil Engineering, 1990, Clemson University
M.S., Civil Engineering, 1995, Clemson University
Ph.D., Civil Engineering, 2012, Clemson University

Awards & Distinctions

• 2019 Thomas Green Clemson Academy of Engineers and Scientist induction, College of Engring, Computing and Applied Sci. at Clemson University.
• 2019 Distinguished Alumni, Glen Depart. of Civil Engring. at Clemson University.
• 2018 Australasian Engring. Educ. Conference Best Paper
• 2018 J. of Construction Engring. and Mgmt. & J of Professional Issues in Engring. Educ. and Practice Editor‚Äôs Choice
• 2018 Myers Lawson School of Construction Diversity Award
• 2017 J of Mgmt. in Engring. Editor’s Choice

Certifications

• PE

Current NSF-Funded Projects:

• NSF CAREER Award entitled: “CAREER: Investigating Co-Curricular Participation of Students Underrepresented in Engineering”
• NSF Award entitled: “Preparing a 21st Century STEM Workforce: Defining & Measuring Leadership in Engineering”
• NSF Award entitled “Collaborative Research: An Instrument and Adoption Framework for Student Cognitive and Social Engagement with a Course”