Matt Clontz

Biography

Dr. Matthew Clontz is an Assitant Professor in the School of Engineering + Technology. He joined WCU after several years in various industry roles and over 6 years of teaching as adjunct faculty in the community college system. He earned his BS and PhD from Virginia Tech in Mechanical Engineering. With a research background in vehicle dynamics and vibrations, Dr. Clontz has now turned this focus towards mountain bikes. In a typical semester, Dr. Clontz usually mentors undergraduate and graduate students while teaching several courses and pursuing his research on mountain bike dynamics.

Education

• Ph D, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Mechanical Engineering

Teaching Interests

Dr. Clontz's teaching interests are primarily centered around what are considered "classical mechanics." He also has an interest and background in such topics as design, engineering economics, and technical writing. A more specific, but still brief list of topics is included below:<br>- Engineering Mechanics (statics and dynamics)<br>- Mechanics of Materials<br>- Vibrations of Mechanical Systems<br>- Dynamic Systems and Control<br>- Technical Writing

Research Interests

Dr. Clontz's research background is focused on the areas of dynamic systems and vibrations, specifically in the context of vehicle dynamics. He spent several years in various roles in the automotive and industrial equipment industries before returning to academia at WCU. Since arriving at WCU, he has turned his expertise to the vibrations and dynamics of mountain bikes. Through collaboration with academic and industry partners, he is building a research portfolio based upon mountain bike modelling, testing/validation, and evaluation.