BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING AT STEVENSON UNIVERSITY Stevenson student Bailey Kahl helps hand-build unique bicycles designed to meet the individual needs of
Maryland children with disabilities . learn how to apply their knowledge and skills to produce projects with healthcare applications in the real word .
“ We distinguish ourselves from other programs through yearly design projects , clinical immersion , and capstone projects ,” said Professor Rothman . “ Combined with the mentorships and individual attention Stevenson is known for , our graduates have the critical thinking and problem-solving skills that employers want .”
A NEW HOME FOR INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY ON CAMPUS
Although still a young program at Stevenson , Biomedical
Engineering already has a dedicated facility on campus : the Biomedical Engineering Lab in the Kahlert Foundation Makerspace .
“ In the Makerspace , students are really going to learn about how to build things and get experience with different kinds of fabrication tools ,” said Professor Rothman . “ When they graduate they will have built the kinds of skills employers are looking for : collaboration skills , design skills , fabrication skills , creativity , and creative thinking .” Officially opened in February 2024 , the Kahlert Foundation Makerspace is located in the Manning Academic Center on Stevenson ’ s North campus . The space contains two dedicated labs : the Biomedical Engineering
Lab and the Innovation Lab . The Biomedical Engineering Lab features specialized tools and equipment to meet the needs of students in the Biomedical Engineering program , while the Innovation Lab contains of equipment and resources all Stevenson students can use to design and create nearly anything they can imagine . “ We ’ re already using the Biomedical Engineering Lab every day , it ’ s become our classroom ,” said James Borelli , Assistant
Professor of Biomedical Engineering . “ The Kahlert Makerspace is a resource shared among the University that has an array of 3D printers , a laser cutter , computercontrolled router , vinyl printer , electrical analysis and assembly stations , and an assortment of hand tools , along with a well-appointed woodworking shop . The only limitation is what you can imagine . We ’ re looking forward to growing in our new space .”
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR CAREERS IN A FAST-GROWING FIELD
Biomedical Engineering students are entering the field at an exciting time . New technologies , like generative artificial intelligence , have the potential to revolutionize the design and manufacture of biomedical devices . At the same time , the field is already experiencing a period of sustained growth .
The need for bioengineers and biomedical engineers is growing faster than the average of all occupations in the United States . Much of this growth can be linked to demand for medical procedures and medical devices among the country ’ s aging population . As the demand for both increases , the need for new biomedical engineers is expected to continue well into the next decade .
“ One in six people in the US are 65 or older ,” said Professor Borelli . “ This segment of the population is growing at a rapid rate according to the Census . This will lead to an increased burden on the healthcare system and healthcare workers that can be reduced through novel innovations developed by biomedical engineers .”
A YOUNG PROGRAM WITH A BRIGHT FUTURE
Despite only enrolling students since 2019 , the program is producing positive results . Students have secured internships with major firms , including AstraZeneca , a leading multinational
16 | VENTURES / SUMMER-FALL 2024