Biography of Jeff Hawks
Jeff Hawks has deeply embedded the values of innovation and perpetual education in his path to becoming a distinguished Engineering Project Manager. His keen emphasis on robotic development, automation, and biomechanics reflects a fervent fascination with blending the fields of physiology and engineering mechanics.
Robotic Development and Fabrication Automation He is currently spearheading notable projects in robotic development, fabrication automation, and product design. His prowess includes, but is not limited to, creating robotic arms for welding and material handling applications, and designing mechatronic devices to enhance the fabrication process. Notably, his relentless drive for innovation has led him to develop a prototype of a hip sled aimed at helping Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients, which is eagerly anticipated by the research community.
Academic Accomplishments and Teaching Experience Holding a Ph.D. and Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Jeff's credible career includes a portfolio of major journal publications, book chapters, and patents. His zeal for continuous learning reflects prominently in his endeavor to share his knowledge. He has taught the senior capstone design course in the Mechanical and Materials Engineering Department of the
University Of Nebraska-Lincoln. Moreover, he successfully initiated an interdisciplinary biomechanics course for juniors, seniors, and graduate students.
Visionary in Biomechanics and Sports Sciences In his pursuit of continuous learning and development, Jeff has shown a deep interest in researching biomechanics and sports sciences, notably in the designing assistive devices for rehabilitation. His adventures in biomechanics have seen extensive collaborations with the Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility at University of Nebraska-Omaha and the Nebraska Athletic Performance Laboratory at University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In 2013, his relentless passion saw him as a member of the host planning committee for the American Society of Biomechanics in Omaha, NE.
Charitable Engagements: Enabling Rehabilitation for MS Patients Not only has his innovative mind led him to groundbreaking research and professional success, his charitable endeavor to give back to society is equally noteworthy. He currently serves on the board of MS Forward, a nationally recognized gym for patients with neurological diseases. Leveraging his professional expertise and industry networks, he donates valuable time and resources to the non-profit, infusing his innovative spirit in their rehabilitation efforts. In addition to his involvement with MS Forward, he also donates to Christian Heritage.
Outstanding contributions to Army Research Laboratories A noteworthy period in Jeff's career was his successful tenure at the Army Research Laboratories, where he managed a variety of novel research projects in autonomous cooperative robot systems, computer vision applications, miniature surgical robotics, wheeled robotics, and autonomous sensor platforms. These significant contributions further demonstrate his commitment to the principles of innovation and continuous learning.
Jeff's Virtues: A Driving Force for his Success If one were to sum up the principle forces driving his triumphant journey thus far, the virtues of innovation and continuous learning would surely stand tall. It is his innovative spirit that fuels the development of state-of-the-art biomechanical devices and surgical aids. His passion for continuous learning is reflected in his persistent academic pursuits and his desire to teach and disseminate his knowledge to the next generation of engineers and scientists. Moving forward, Jeff Hawks plans to continue his research and breakthrough developments in robotics, biomechanics and beyond, thereby marking a lasting impact on both his professional and charitable endeavors.