Akinwale Okunola

Pennsylvania State University, Virginia Tech

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Dr. Akinwale Okunola is a leading voice at the intersection of construction engineering, occupational health, and robotics. His research focuses on mitigating work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in the construction industry, particularly through the evaluation of powered wearable robots and the development of competencies for human-robot collaboration. In his highly cited 2024 pilot study, Dr. Okunola demonstrated the potential of exoskeletons to reduce physical strain during simulated flooring work, directly addressing the ergonomic risks that threaten the health and retention of skilled tradespeople. His 2025 work further bridges a critical gap between academia and industry by identifying the specific competencies needed for safe and effective human-robot collaboration on construction sites. With his papers already garnering significant early citations, Dr. Okunola’s contributions are shaping both the future of construction safety and the curriculum needed to prepare the next generation of workers. His research is essential reading for anyone interested in the convergence of automation, human factors, and sustainable careers in the built environment.