Kathryn M. Daniels, of Valley Center, Kansas, passed away on March 9, 2026. A respected engineer, educator, mentor, and dedicated volunteer, Kathryn devoted her life to advancing manufacturing engineering and supporting the next generation of professionals in her field.

Kathryn built an extraordinary career spanning more than four decades in the aerospace and manufacturing industries. She began her professional career with Cessna Aircraft, where she served as a Manufacturing Engineer for more than 26 years. Following her time at Cessna, she continued her work in quality engineering and management with Apex Engineering and Safarik Tool, ultimately becoming a consultant for Tri-Phase Engineering. Throughout her career, Kathryn was known for her expertise in manufacturing processes, tool and die making, quality engineering, and advanced design and programming.

Beyond her professional work, Kathryn was deeply committed to education and mentorship. She served as an adjunct instructor at Wichita Area Technical College, Butler Community College, Pittsburg State University, and Wichita State University, where she taught courses in materials and processes, machining, lean manufacturing, statistical quality control, CATIA V5, motion studies, and aircraft assembly processes. She had a special passion for mentoring students at Wichita State University, where she actively supported the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) student chapter and helped guide many young engineers as they began their careers.

Kathryn's contributions to the engineering profession extended far beyond the classroom and workplace. She had been a dedicated member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) since 1993 and served eight years on the organization's Certification Committee. She was a Certified Manufacturing Engineer (CMfgE) and served as the Wichita area Certification Chairwoman. She was also a Senior Member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, a Senior Member of the American Society for Quality, and a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the Society of Women Engineers, and the American Society of Engineering Education.

In recognition of her decades of service and leadership within the profession, Kathryn was recently honored with the Joseph Siegel Award at the Society of Manufacturing Engineers International Awards Gala. This prestigious award is the highest international honor bestowed upon an SME member for significant and unique contributions that benefit the organization. Kathryn's volunteer work, mentorship, and tireless commitment to advancing engineering education made her deeply respected among colleagues, students, and industry leaders alike.

Kathryn pursued education throughout her life and held a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Industrial Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley, an Education Specialist degree in Industrial Education from Pittsburg State University, and Bachelor of Science degrees in Quality Management and Manufacturing Engineering Technology from Southwestern College.

Kathryn was the daughter of Dr. Robert M. Daniels and Senator Norma L. Daniels, whose values of service, education, and dedication to community helped shape her life and career.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Kathryn believed strongly in giving back to her community. She was a dedicated volunteer at the VA Hospital in Wichita, where she generously gave her time in support of veterans.

She had a deep love for animals and cherished the companionship of her beloved dog, Snickers, who remained faithfully by her side.

She is survived by a brother, Robert M. Daniels II and wife Deborah Daniels of Oxford; and five sisters: Mary Porter, Jeanne Daniels, Dr. Patricia Petrakis, and Peggy Marisa Daniels, all of Valley Center; and Sr. Susanne Daniels, CSJ, of Wichita, along with extended family, colleagues, former students, and many friends whose lives she touched through mentorship and friendship.

Kathryn will be remembered as a pioneer in engineering, a passionate educator, and a generous mentor whose influence will continue through the many students and professionals she inspired.

Memorial Donations in Memory of Kathryn Daniels to: PSU Foundation,  PO Box 4005,  Pittsburg, KS 66762.  Please attach note - Please Deposit in the Kathryn M. Daniels Women in Engineering Scholarship Account.

Visitation Service will be held 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Thursday, March 12 at the Baker Funeral Home Chapel, 100 S. Cedar, Valley Center, Kansas.  A private family graveside.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.bakerfhvc.com