Board of Directors and Management Team

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 Robert G. Andosca, Ph.D. 

~ Boston, Massachusetts ~

 Background summary 

• Founder and former President and CEO/CTO, MicroGen Systems, Inc. (acquired July 2017)

• Raised $12M in combined venture capital investment and grants

• Former Executive Director, MANCEF, a 501(c)(3) non-profit

• World renown expert in piezo-MEMS sensors and energy harvesting 

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Boasting an illustrious career spanning over three decades, Dr. Robert G. Andosca has been at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in the world of the Internet of Things (IoT), wearables, Industrial IoT (IIoT), connected vehicles, and telecommunications. His exceptional contributions to the development of MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS), Piezo-MEMS, sensors, and semiconductor technologies have left a lasting impact on the industry.

Throughout his awe-inspiring journey, Dr. Andosca has donned a multitude of hats, taking on C-level, business development, strategic marketing, engineering management, and senior scientist and engineering roles. As a trailblazing entrepreneur, he founded and led MicroGen Systems, Inc. , an energy harvesting IoT-based company. 

Under his stellar guidance, the company raised a remarkable $8 million through angel and Series A funding, in addition to $4 million in government grants within six years.

Dr. Andosca's extraordinary leadership ensured that MicroGen Systems successfully transitioned their prototype piezo-MEMS vibration energy harvester (pVEH) process from the prestigious Cornell Nanoscale Science and Technology Facility  in Ithaca, NY, to X-FAB's high-volume manufacturing facility in Itzehoe, Germany. This outstanding achievement resulted in a staggering overall manufacturing product yield exceeding 85%, inclusive of wafer-level packaging.

In a pioneering collaboration with Melexis N.V. from Belgium and the world's largest tire company, Dr. Andosca's team developed the first-of-its-kind, fully integrated tire-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) module powered by their pVEH product for Class 8 long-haul commercial truck tires. This revolutionary module not only aced rigorous tests, but also demonstrated unparalleled durability and reliability under extreme conditions.

The trailblazing MicroGen Systems introduced their game-changing self-charging Intelligence Tire System (ITS) module at the 2016 Automotive Sensors Expo in Detroit and launched several innovative products in the IIoT market before the company was sold in July 2017. The company received a slew of prestigious accolades, which are a testament to its meteoric success.

Dr. Andosca, a true visionary in the MEMS field, has been recognized as one of theTop 12 Movers and Shakers in MEMS  by EE Times. His Ph.D. in Materials Science, focusing on Electrical Engineering and Physics, is yet another feather in his cap. 

A sought-after speaker, Dr. Andosca has captivated audiences in over 35 conferences across the globe, including six Keynote addresses, sharing his expertise on IoT, EH, and MEMS/sensors. His impressive collection of more than 25 issued US and international patents underscores his standing as an industry giant.

Qaizar Hassonjee, Ph.D.   

  ~ Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ~    

Background summary 

• Formerly VP Innovations, Sports Wearables Electronics, Adidas 

• President, Hass Tech Associates 

• Member, Robin Hood Ventures 

• Member, Forbes Tech Council 

• Co-founder & CDO, Textronics (spin-out from Dupont)

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Qaizar Hassonjee, Ph.D., is a highly accomplished individual who has worked in the wearable technology and textiles industry. As the former Vice President of Innovation for Sports Wearable Electronics at Adidas, he played a crucial role in advancing the company's initiatives in smart wearables and connected clothing.

Dr. Hassonjee has a strong background in both technology and textiles, which made him an ideal candidate for his position at Adidas. He holds a Ph.D. in Textile Science and Engineering, as well as a Master's degree in the same field. His expertise lies in smart textiles, wearable technology, and product development, which have made him a key player in the field of sports and wearable electronics.

Dr. Qaizar Hassonjee was a co-founder and the Chief Development Officer (CDO) of Textronics, Inc., a company that focused on developing innovative electronic textile solutions and wearable technology. Established in the early 2000s, Textronics was at the forefront of the emerging wearable technology and smart textiles industry, creating groundbreaking products for sports, fitness, and health applications.

As the CDO of Textronics, Dr. Hassonjee played a critical role in driving the company's research and development efforts, as well as overseeing the design and creation of new products. Under his leadership, the company introduced innovative textile-based sensor systems and wearable electronic components that were integrated into garments for monitoring physiological parameters, such as heart rate, temperature, and muscle activity.

One of Textronics' most notable achievements was the development of the "textile-based heart rate sensing sports bra," which received widespread recognition for its groundbreaking fusion of technology and textiles to improve athletes' performance and well-being.

In 2005, Adidas, one of the world's leading sports apparel and equipment manufacturers, acquired Textronics, recognizing the potential of incorporating wearable technology and smart textiles into its product range. 

Dr. Hassonjee's expertise and the work done by Textronics contributed significantly to Adidas' efforts in expanding its presence in the sports wearable electronics market. After the acquisition, Dr. Hassonjee joined Adidas as the Vice President of Innovation for Sports Wearable Electronics, where he continued to lead research and development initiatives in the wearable technology domain.

 Monica Restrepo 

~ Boston, Massachusetts ~

    Background summary   

 Monica Restrepo's 20+ years professional experience in Respiratory Therapy (RT) have been wonderful.  Monica currently works for Steward Healthcare at St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Brighton, MA. Previously, she worked on the COVID-19 front line at Sky Ridge Medical Center just outside Denver, CO.  Monica is originally from Medellín, Colombia. She moved to United States in 2007 and began my studies to learn English better (fluent) and work within my RT field.  Monica holds her Masters in respiratory and pulmonary therapy and critical care specialization in neonatal and pediatrics.  In 2015, Monica was extremely happy to officially become a U.S. citizen.  Lastly, Monica is also an avid fitness person, where she is always trying to stay in shape and be healthy.

Governor Jeffrey Colyer, M.D.

~ Kansas City, Kansas ~  

Background summary 

• Chair, National Advisory Committee on Rural Health and Human Services

• Surgeon, and volunteer combat surgeon (Ukraine, Afghanistan, Iraq, Rwanda)

• Former Governor, Kansas

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Dr. Jeffrey Colyer, M.D., is an American politician, surgeon, and former Governor of Kansas. Born on June 3, 1960, in Hays, Kansas, Colyer is a member of the Republican Party. He served as the 47th Governor of Kansas from January 31, 2018, to January 14, 2019. Prior to that, he had been the Lieutenant Governor of Kansas from 2011 to 2018, serving under Governor Sam Brownback.

Dr. Colyer received his undergraduate degree in economics from Georgetown University and earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine. After completing his medical training, he went on to practice as a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. In addition to his medical career, Colyer has been involved in various humanitarian missions, including providing medical assistance in war zones such as Afghanistan, Iraq, and the Balkans, as well as helping victims of the Rwandan genocide.

In 2006, Dr. Colyer entered politics when he was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives. In 2008, he became a member of the Kansas State Senate. When Sam Brownback ran for Governor in 2010, Colyer joined his campaign as the candidate for Lieutenant Governor. The Brownback-Colyer ticket won, and Colyer was sworn in as the Lieutenant Governor in January 2011.

In 2018, when Governor Sam Brownback resigned to accept a position in the Trump administration, Colyer was elevated to the position of Governor. As Governor, Colyer focused on various issues, including economic development, education, and healthcare. He ran for re-election in 2018 but was narrowly defeated in the Republican primary by Kris Kobach, who subsequently lost the general election to Democrat Laura Kelly.

Dr. Jeffrey Colyer, M.D., has been actively involved in numerous international humanitarian missions, providing medical aid and support to vulnerable populations in crisis situations. As a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, his expertise has been invaluable in helping those affected by war, natural disasters, and other crises.

During his career, Dr. Colyer has volunteered as a combat surgeon in several war-torn regions. His work has taken him to Afghanistan and Iraq, where he offered medical care to those injured in conflicts. As a volunteer surgeon, he worked alongside military personnel in combat support hospitals, providing crucial surgical care to the wounded.

In addition to his work in war zones, Dr. Colyer has been involved in humanitarian relief efforts in the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide in 1994. He traveled to the region to offer medical assistance to the survivors, providing much-needed care and support as they dealt with the physical and emotional trauma resulting from the violence.

Dr. Colyer has also provided medical aid during other humanitarian crises, such as in the Balkans, where he delivered medical care and support to the victims of the conflicts in the region. He has worked with various international organizations, including the International Medical Corps, to help coordinate medical relief efforts during these missions.

His dedication to humanitarian work showcases his commitment to making a positive impact on people's lives, even beyond his roles in medicine and politics. Dr. Colyer's international missions demonstrate a strong sense of empathy and compassion for those in need, and his work has undoubtedly improved the lives of many individuals who have suffered due to conflicts or disasters.

During his tenure as Lieutenant Governor of Kansas, Dr. Jeffrey Colyer was appointed as Chair of the National Advisory Committee on Rural Health and Human Services (NACRHHS). The NACRHHS is an advisory body that provides policy recommendations to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on issues related to rural health and human services.

As Chair of the NACRHHS, Dr. Colyer played a crucial role in leading the committee's efforts to identify and address challenges faced by rural communities across the United States. The committee is responsible for examining the impact of current policies, suggesting new policy directions, and advising on ways to improve healthcare and human services in rural areas.

Under Dr. Colyer's leadership, the NACRHHS focused on several key issues affecting rural communities, such as access to healthcare, the availability of healthcare providers, the opioid crisis, telemedicine and remote patient monitoring (RPM), mental health services, and the impact of economic factors on rural health outcomes. The committee's recommendations aimed to improve the overall quality and accessibility of healthcare and social services for rural populations, addressing disparities in health outcomes and fostering sustainable, healthy communities.

Dr. Colyer's background as a medical professional and his experience in public service provided valuable insights and perspectives during his tenure as Chair of the NACRHHS, which he is still active today. His contributions helped shape policies and strategies aimed at ensuring the well-being of rural communities across the United States.

Kurt Petersen, Ph.D. 

~ Silicon Valley, California ~ 

Background summary 

• Co-founder & former CEO, Cepheid • Co-Chair HardTech (formerly Wearables) Group, Silicon Valley Band of Angels • 2019 IEEE Medal of Honor • Co-founder & former CEO, SiTime • Co-founder & former VP Tech, NovaSensor

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Dr. Kurt Petersen is a prominent figure in the field of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology. He co-founded Cepheid, a molecular diagnostics company known for its innovative products and technology that enable rapid, accurate genetic testing, in 1996. Cepheid is particularly famous for the GeneXpert system, which has been widely used for various diagnostic applications, including detection of infectious diseases like tuberculosis and COVID-19.

Dr. Petersen has a Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Throughout his career, he has contributed significantly to the development and commercialization of MEMS devices and has held various leadership roles in several technology companies. In addition to his role at Cepheid, Dr. Petersen is also known for his work with other companies, such as NovaSensor, which he co-founded in 1985.

Dr. Petersen has been recognized for his achievements and expertise in the field, receiving numerous awards and honors for his work in MEMS technology, including the prestigious IEEE Simon Ramo Medal. Dr. Petersen's contributions have been critical to the growth and advancement of MEMS technology, and he continues to be an influential figure in the field.

Christopher Bicek

~ Rochester, New York ~

 Background summary 

 Christopher Bicek has 30+ years of industry experience in software development and business management. Chris is a serial entrepreneur, which now includes being a co-founder and Executive VP Software Development of INVIZA a self-powered wearables technology company.  He is leading the SW development efforts and building a SW team to internally develop proprietary Android and iOS mobile applications, web and database development, and backend cloud-computing. Artificial intelligence and predictive analytics will be employed in the cloud to help individuals become more healthy and fit. In addition, Chris will lead SW cloud development for the improvement of local to global populations overall wellness via Big Data analytics.

Chris is co-founder of Discovery Corp a software development company in Rochester, NY, which developed forensic email software for law firms. His company helped design the SW for the Xerox Imaging Kiosk, which was used within the top 100 law firms and other companies. In addition, Chris developed and maintained TOPP's a call center for Xerox Personal Document Product a 4B US$ Division of Xerox. Prior to all this Chris developed software for Boston-based startup, Keyware Technologies www.keyware.com, which resulted in an IPO on Euronext in June 2000 for 250M US$.

Chris later consulted on the 911 Commission on Terrorism team, which used the Xerox Imaging Kiosk.  A forensic search engine was developed for the commission. In addition, Chris consulted in software development for Kodak, Xerox, Paychex, Bausch & Lomb, and taught software development and data Management. Chis hold B.S. degrees in computer science and business management.  

Mary Ann Maher, Ph.D.

~ Silicon Valley, California ~  

Background Summary 

• Founder and CEO, SoftMEMS

• Advisory Board Member, 

SEMI MSIG

• Co-founder & former CTO, MEMSCap, France

• Ph.D. Computer Science, Cal Tech

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Dr. Mary Ann Maher, Ph.D., is an accomplished technologist and entrepreneur who co-founded MEMSCAP, a France-based company specializing in the design and production of innovative micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). As the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of the company, she was responsible for guiding its technical vision, overseeing research and development activities, and driving innovation in the field of MEMS technology.

MEMSCAP was established in 1997, and during Dr. Maher's tenure as CTO, the company achieved significant growth and success. One of the notable milestones during her time at MEMSCAP was the company's initial public offering (IPO), which took place in 2001. The IPO provided the necessary capital for the company to expand its operations and increase its presence in the highly competitive MEMS industry.

Under Dr. Maher's leadership, MEMSCAP developed and commercialized a variety of MEMS products for diverse industries, including aerospace, healthcare, and telecommunications. These products were designed to enable sophisticated, miniaturized devices that have a range of applications, such as pressure sensors, optical switches, and microfluidic components.

Dr. Maher holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science, which has equipped her with the expertise needed to lead innovation and technological advancements in the MEMS field. Her contributions to MEMSCAP have been instrumental in the company's growth and success, positioning it as a key player in the global MEMS industry.

Dr. Mary Ann Maher is also the founder and CEO of SoftMEMS, a company based in Silicon Valley that specializes in the development of MEMS design software and provides design services for the MEMS industry. Founded in 2004, SoftMEMS is focused on providing a comprehensive suite of tools and services for MEMS design, modeling, and fabrication, helping clients design and produce high-quality MEMS devices more efficiently.

Under Dr. Maher's leadership, SoftMEMS has grown to become a well-respected player in the MEMS industry, offering a range of software solutions and consulting services that enable companies to optimize the design and production of their MEMS devices. Her expertise in MEMS technology and electrical engineering, along with her experience as a co-founder and former CTO of MEMSCAP, has contributed to SoftMEMS' growth and success.

In addition to her work at SoftMEMS, Dr. Maher has been actively involved with the SEMI MEMS and Sensor Industry Group (SEMI-MSIG), a global industry association that represents the collective interests of the MEMS and sensors supply chain. As a volunteer, she has participated in various activities organized by SEMI-MSIG, including conferences, workshops, and working groups. Dr. Maher's engagement with SEMI-MSIG showcases her dedication to the advancement of the MEMS industry, facilitating collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing among industry players.

Through her work with SoftMEMS and her involvement with SEMI-MSIG, Dr. Maher continues to be a strong advocate for the MEMS industry, driving innovation and helping to shape the future of MEMS technology.

Major (ret.) Cully Patch

~ Utica, New York ~

Background summary 

• Senior Program Manager, Quanterion Solutions

• Major, Cybersecurity and Intelligence, US Air Force, 

27-years retired.

More information

Major Cully Patch, a 27-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force, recently transitioned into civilian life as an expert in cybersecurity and intelligence leadership, boasting an active security clearance. His extensive experience has equipped him with the ability to seamlessly integrate intelligence and cybersecurity measures into operational processes to fortify system resilience.

Major Patch excels in strategically prioritizing investments in intelligence and security initiatives to maximize their overall value and effectiveness. Possessing exceptional analytical abilities, he consistently applies critical thinking to develop comprehensive strategic plans.

As an accomplished education and training instructor, Major Patch specializes in providing tailored training to mid-to-senior level leaders in the fields of cybersecurity, intelligence, and comprehensive community concepts. This training aims to enhance critical thinking skills relevant to policy, operations, and production. Major Patch is a reliable, forward-thinking leader who fosters an inclusive environment for diverse team members to collaborate and collectively address common challenges.

Junru Wu, Ph.D.

~ Burlington, Vermont ~  

Born

Shanghai, China in 1944

Passed Away

August 25, 2022, 78 years old

Obituary

Background Summary 

•  Emeritus Professor, Physics Department and Materials Science Program, The University of Vermont

•  Co-founder, MicroGen Systems (founded 2007, acquired 2017)

•  Fellow, American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine

•  Fellow, Acoustical Society of America

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Dr. Wu has been considered one of the internationally renowned experts in nonlinear physics, acoustics/vibration/ultrasound physics, soliton physics, and biological physics. He has achieved several important discoveries and inventions. Particularly, he and his mentor Professor Rudnick discovered non-propagating hydrodynamic solitons in 1983.  This achievement was listed as one of the most important achievement in Physics Acoustics in "Acoustical Society of America 75th Anniversary Time- Line." 

Dr. Wu has published more than 100 papers in Physical Review Letter, the Journal of Acoustic Society, Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology, the Physics in Medicine and Biology and the Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews. He is a co-author of a book entitled "Emerging therapeutic Ultrasound" published in 2007 by The World Scientific Publisher. 

Dr. Wu is also the co-inventor of the following patents: (1) Implant debris detection, (2) Methods for the delivery of compounds to cells, (3) Ultrasonic control for aquatic plant management, and (4) Piezoelectric Vibrational Energy Harvesting Systems Incorporating Parametric Bending Mode Energy Harvesting (Andosca-Wu, US Patent US8080920B2, issued December 2011).  

Dr. Wu has a B.S. degree in Physics from Nanjing University and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Physics from University of California, Los Angeles. He joined the University of Vermont in 1987. Dr. Wu is a Fellow of The Acoustical Society of America and a Fellow of The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine. He is also an elected member of Vermont Academy of Science and Engineering. Dr. Wu has been a professional consultant for NRG, BF Goodrich, Gillette, Abbott, and Hewlett Packard Co. Dr. Wu applies ultrasound and optics in biology and medicine.