Jeff Wiersma

Chief Innovation Engineer

Miller Knoll

Jeff Wiersna, PhD, is the Chief Innovation Engineer of MillerKnoll Inc., where he oversees global product innovation, materials research, and structural simulation. With over two decades of experience, he has played a key role in generating innovative concepts, promoting technical excellence, and pushing material science applications across the company. His specialities include engineering design, simulation, biomechanics, structural physics, and sustainability-driven material innovation.

Prior to his current position, Jeff was Materials and Structures Engineering Manager, where he oversaw product engineering projects, defined global engineering strategy, and directed research in material characterisation, failure analysis, and finite element analysis. He has played an important role in teaching engineers, providing technical courses, and managing offshore engineering operations in India.

Prior to joining MillerKnoll, Jeff had engineering leadership positions at Herman Miller Inc. and Medtronic Inc., where he was responsible for product design, analysis, and development for industries ranging from seating and healthcare to minimally invasive heart surgery. His responsibilities have included working with surgeons, improving product performance, and ensuring regulatory compliance for medical equipment.

Jeff earned a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University, a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from UCLA, and two Bachelor's degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Biomedical Science from Grand Valley State University. He is a well-known engineering mentor and technical educator who is committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation, structural mechanics, and sustainability in product creation.