Dennis Hong

The Dennis Hong keynotes examine the technology used in the world's first car for the visually impaired. Hong started out with the goal of allowing all individuals to live their life independently and achieve their goals. Hong is currently the Director of the RoMeLa (Robotics and Mechanisms Laboratory) and Assistant Professor for Virginia Tech's Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Prior to his current position, Hong was a visiting professor at Purdue University and a design consultant at TruFlex. With regards to his educational background, Hong earned his Bachelor's degree and Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Purdue University, respectively. In conjunction, Hong also earned his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University.

As a professor, Hong aided his students in creating 'DARwin' an award-winning humanoid robot and pioneered robotic innovations. As a result of his advancements within the robotic community, Hong was selected as a NASA 'Summer Faculty Fellow' and received the 'CAREER award' from the National Science Foundation. H was also named as Popular Science's "Brilliant 10" and the Magoon Awards for 'Excellence in Teaching.'

The Dennis Hong keynotes offer and explore technologies that may one day enhance the quality of live for those who are blind.