Steven Mickelson

Chair, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department at Iowa State University

Steven K. Mickelson is a prominent academic figure serving as the Chair of the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE) at Iowa State University (ISU). He has held this position since 2011 and is recognized as the inaugural recipient of the Charles R. and Jane F. Olsen Professorship in Engineering, which honors his contributions to sustainability, clean water, and environmental education.1 2

Background and Education

Mickelson grew up on a farm near Storm Lake, Iowa, which has influenced his career in agricultural engineering. He earned his degrees in agricultural engineering from Iowa State University, completing his Bachelor's in 1982, Master's in 1984, and PhD in 1991. He also holds an honorary doctorate from Georgian Technical University in Tbilisi, Georgia.1 2 3

Professional Achievements

During his tenure as department chair, Mickelson has significantly enhanced the department's reputation, leading it to rank among the top agricultural and biosystems engineering programs in the United States according to U.S. News and World Report.1 His teaching focuses on engineering design, computer graphics, and workplace competency development. His research primarily investigates agricultural best management practices aimed at reducing surface water contamination.2 3

Mickelson has received numerous accolades for his leadership and contributions to education, including the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) Gilley Academic Leadership Award in 2017 and being named a Fellow of ASABE in 2018.1 2 3

Contributions to Education

Before becoming chair of ABE, he directed the Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching at ISU for three years and co-directed Learning Communities. His efforts have been pivotal in advancing educational practices within the engineering field.2 3