The world of science beyond Carlmont’s curriculum visited the Performing Arts Center on March 9.
Senior Controls Engineer Dr. Katherine Strausser explained the next step for the paraplegic and stroke victims — an exoskeleton.
Strausser described exoskeletons as an “internal support structure.”
They are able to support, protect, stabilize a human’s weight and its own, and any other requirements built in.
Science teacher Michal Nozik said, “I think that the technology is there in terms of the research, and I’m very excited about the possibilities.”
Whether these structures are for veterans or workers, exoskeletons can be built for a person’s body, or a person and their equipment.
Developers and producers at Ekso Bionics have created exoskeletons to aid the government, the industry, consumers, and the health field.
Strausser and the hundreds of employees that consist of Ekso Bionics aim for a reliable, adjustable, and comfortable support structure, but also prioritize safety for users.
The presentation emphasized how exoskeletons created a second chance; 34,000,000 steps for 5,000 neurologically impaired individuals.
Strausser, or any other guest speaker that visits, don’t just grow on trees. Claes Gustafsson uses his connections in the biotech industry and invites speakers to present their research. Carlmont’s proximity to Silicon Valley creates a beneficial web of opportunities in the technology industry. Being a parent himself, Gustafsson understands the task to find a path for the future.
According to Gustafsson, events like these will hopefully provide opportunities and options to high school students looking toward their future.
With the aid of Jeff Horn and The Carlmont Technical Theater Association (CTTA), the next opportunity is on April 13 in Carlmont’s performing arts center.
“I hope that people can kind of realize where different career opportunities are, and hopefully find something that they’re passionate about,” said Strausser.
