Joseph M. Mahoney

(he/him)

As the Inaugural Chair of the John R. Post School of Engineering at Alvernia University, I am leading growth in engineering education in Berks County. In this role, I oversee the Mechanical, Electrical, and Industrial Engineering programs, design and implement new undergraduate and graduate offerings, guide programs through ABET accreditation, and develop cutting-edge laboratory spaces. Additionally, I prioritize building a dynamic and diverse faculty team while creating innovative courses that empower students to thrive in the evolving engineering field.

As an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, my teaching portfolio includes engineering design, statics, and computer programming, where I emphasize student engagement and real-world application. My research bridges Biomechanics and machine learning, with a focus on developing cost-effective, innovative tools for data collection and analysis. This interdisciplinary approach has positioned me to address complex challenges in human movement and time-series analysis.

Previously, I was instrumental in launching Penn State Berks’ four-year Mechanical Engineering degree as an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Kinesiology. I also served as a University Faculty Senator and Chair of the Academic Integrity Committee. These roles allowed me to contribute to institutional governance and uphold academic standards.

I hold a Ph.D. in Engineering Science and Mechanics from Pennsylvania State University, complemented by M.S. and B.S. degrees in Mechanical Engineering, with minors in Mathematics and Engineering Mechanics. Certified as an “Engineer in Training,” I bring a strong foundation in engineering principles and leadership to every project.

Experience

  • 2022–present
    Chair of Engineering, Alvernia University
  • 2022–present
    Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Alvernia University
  • 2013–2022
    Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Kinesiology , Penn State Berks

Education

  • 2013 
    Penn State University , Ph,D. in Engineering Science and Mechanics
  • 2007 
    Penn State University , BS in Mechanical Engineering
  • 2007 
    Penn State University , MS in Mechanical Engineering

Publications

  • 2024
    Knee Angle Estimation with Dynamic Calibration Using Inertial Measurement Units for Running, Sensors
  • 2024
    Identification of footstrike pattern using accelerometry and machine learning, Journal of Biomechanics
  • 2020
    Pokémon Go did not increase step count or distance travelled among college students, Human Movement
  • 2019
    An Experimental Elective Course in Video Game Design for Mechanical Engineers, Computers in Education
  • 2019
    Methodology and validation for identifying gait type using machine learning on IMU data, Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology
  • 2018
    Design and validation of a simple automated optical step counting method for treadmill walking, Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology
  • 2018
    A comprehensive comparison of simple step counting techniques using wrist- and ankle-mounted accelerometer and gyroscope signals, Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology
  • 2017
    Mechanical Vibrations Modal Analysis Project with Arduinos, Computers in Education
  • 2015
    Design method for multi-user workstations utilizing anthropometry and preference data, Applied Ergonomics

Professional Memberships

  • American Society of Engineering Education (ASEE)
  • American Society of Biomechanics (ASB)
  • Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)
  • American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

Contact Joseph for

  • General
  • Speaking request
  • Consulting / Advising
  • Research collaboration
  • Research supervision