Rory Cooper
Rory Cooper
 

Rory Cooper

Director, Human Engineering Research Laboratories @ University of Pittsburgh
Pennsylvania

I am a scientist, engineer, inventor, and Paralympian who designs cool technology like advanced wheelchairs and robots to help people with disabilities. I have won big awards, written books, and inspire others by proving that teamwork, science, and creativity can change the world.

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What I Do

I'm Director of the fairly large interdisciplinary research center.

Why STEM?

I chose engineering out of a passion to help people in tangible ways.

School Days

I went to Cal Poly SLO for my BS and MEng. I went to UCSB for my PhD.

My Day At Work

Create design concepts, work in research and development protocols, mentor others.

Best Part

Making a difference is people's lives and seeing people move towards achieving their goals.

Proud Moments

Marrying my wife Rosemarie, creating HERL, being on the podium at the Paralympics, watching my former students succeed, and seeing products that I've helped to create in use by others.

Challenges

Adjusting to a new life after spinal cord injury and having to rebuild a new life.

My Family

I am married to a wonderful woman, Rosemarie, whom I met while serving in the Army. I'm an uncle to 10 nieces and nephews. 

Dreams and Goals

In the next few years, I hope to bring some of our technologies to fruition for people to benefit. Long-term, I look forward to finding new pathways forwards.

Inspirations

My grandfather has been the greatest influence, although I have had several excellent mentors.

My Advice

Go for it - Engineering is ever moving forward and makes a positive difference in people's lives. Always keep learning and inventing.

Hobbies

Hand-cycling, swimming, and working in my shop.

Volunteer Opportunities

I am willing to be contacted by educators for possible speaking engagements in schools or in after school programs or summer camps., I am willing to serve as science fair judge or other temporary volunteer at a local school., I am willing to host a field trip to my place of employment., I am willing to be interviewed by interested students via email.
Engineering Careers

Engineering Careers

Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers Electrical and Electronics Engineers

Areas Of Interest

Machines Medicine Sports & Entertainment

Discovering Optional Career

I found my career path by matching my personal interests and passions with my engineering knowledge and skills. After becoming injured, I needed to adjust my career path. Through the help of the US Department of Veterans Affairs through the GI Bill; I was able to attend college and become an engineer. I was also an avid runner who became a passionate wheelchair racer and hand-cyclist. The opportunity to have a career in engineering that helps people and allows them to engage in activities that they enjoy. like sports for me, is exciting and rewarding.

Obstacles Helpful for Youth

I had to adjust from being a soldier and athlete during a time when the world was largely inaccessible to people with disabilities, and to create a career path when employment for people who use wheelchairs was uncommon. Relying friends, mentors, and family and accepting risks all helped me to move forward. I found that being positive, creative, and productive opened opportunities for me. Further I learned that it was important to create opportunities for other people.

Companies Mitigate Challenges

In my case, making facilities and workplaces accessible is important, but corporate climate and culture are nearly as important. It is best if organizations create spaces where people can be creative, implement change, take risks the results can be remarkable for attracting and retaining talent.

K-12 STEM Opportunities

Engineering or technology class, Calculus class

Comments about K-12 STEM

I was fortunate to have greater teachers that took a personal interest in me. I took a balance of learn by doing technology classes complimented with advanced math and science classes.

STEM Learning Opportunities

Independent study (self-teaching), Public university, Military

Undergraduate Certification

A Bachelor’s Degree

Undergraduate Field

Engineering

Associate Bachelor Major

Electrical Engineering

Graduate Degrees

Master’s degree, Doctorate or Ph.D.

Graduate Field

Engineering

Professional Certifications

Engineer in Training (EIT), Other

Other Professional Certifications

Goethe Institiute for German Language

Previous Role Employed

Educator or Professor, Engineer, Tradesperson

Other Parts on the Path

I am a Paralympic Medalist, and a serial entrepreneur.

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