Jeff Andrew Hawks is at the forefront of pioneering efforts in robotic development, automation in fabrication, and inventive product design. His expertise is broad and deep, encompassing the creation of robotic arms tailored for welding and material handling, as well as the conception of mechatronic solutions to refine fabrication processes. A key achievement in his career is the development of a groundbreaking hip sled prototype designed to assist individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This innovation is highly anticipated in the research community.
In the academic sphere, Jeff boasts a Ph.D. and a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering. His scholarly contributions are diverse, including numerous journal articles, book chapters, and patents. An ardent advocate of education, he has imparted his extensive knowledge as a lecturer, teaching the senior capstone design course in Mechanical and Materials Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He also pioneered an interdisciplinary course in biomechanics for upper-level undergraduates and graduate students.
His visionary approach extends to biomechanics and sports sciences, with a particular focus on designing rehabilitative assistive devices. His collaborative ventures include working with the Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility at the University of Nebraska-Omaha and the Nebraska Athletic Performance Laboratory at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His dedication to this field was exemplified in 2013 when he played a pivotal role in the American Society of Biomechanics conference in Omaha, NE.
Beyond Hawks's professional achievements, he is deeply committed to charitable causes, particularly in aiding MS patients. He is an active board member of MS Forward, a nationally recognized gym for individuals with neurological conditions. Here, he merges his professional acumen and network to support the non-profit's rehabilitation programs. Additionally, he contributes to Christian Heritage, showcasing his dedication to philanthropy.
A significant chapter in Jeff Hawks's career was his tenure at the Army Research Laboratories. Here, he led various innovative research projects, delving into autonomous cooperative robot systems, computer vision, miniature surgical robotics, wheeled robotics, and autonomous sensor platforms. His work in these areas further cements his reputation as a leader committed to innovation and lifelong learning.
Portfolio Website: https://jeffandrewhawks.com
