Abstract: UMBC’s CoEIT is known for the expertise of its faculty in both Cybersecurity and AI. In this talk, we will describe a few threads of work where these two areas meet, leading to innovative research that leads to safer AI systems and more intelligent cyber security solutions.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Joshi’s research interests are in the broad area of networked computing and intelligent systems. His primary focus has been on data management and security/privacy in mobile/pervasive computing environments, and policy-driven approaches to security and privacy. More recently, he worked on applying AI to security and securing AI-based systems. He is also interested in Semantic Web and Data/Text/Web Analytics, especially their applications to (cyber) security. He has published over 275 technical papers with an h-index of 79 and over 23750 citations (per Google Scholar), been granted nine patents, and has obtained research support from National Science Foundation (NSF), NASA, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), US Dept of Defense (DoD), NIST, IBM, Microsoft, Qualcomm, Northrop Grumman, and Lockheed Martin amongst others.

Abstract 1:  Complex electronics have always played a crucial role in the successful implementation of any high reliability design. In the aerospace and space exploration context, as reliability moves from a process-based approach to one that is more rooted in the technical objectives of stakeholders, a successful mission execution will require frequent interactions of human, software, and hardware elements. In addition, as we see performance demands increase and the supply chain evolve, the criticality of electronics will continue to change, challenging the design.

This talk will explore the transformative potential of emerging technologies in space exploration. By examining breakthroughs in sensor technologies, artificial intelligence, autonomy, and digital engineering, we will discuss how these advancements are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space science. The talk will also address the socio-economic opportunities that arise from these innovations, highlighting the role of collaboration, private sector involvement, and policy frameworks in shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for humanity’s journey into space.

Abstract 2: IEEE Humanitarian Technology Board (HTB) focuses on leveraging technology to address global humanitarian challenges. It supports projects that aim to improve quality of life in underserved communities, focusing on areas such as healthcare, education, energy, disaster response, and sustainable development. HTB encourages collaboration between engineers, technologists, and local stakeholders to develop affordable, scalable solutions. Through funding, mentorship, and resources, HTB enables innovative initiatives that use technology to solve real-world problems, fostering social good and sustainable impact. The board also promotes awareness and knowledge-sharing through events, conferences, and publications within the IEEE community. This talk will briefly introduce the audience to IEEE HTB, specifically, how to get involved with various humanitarian projects at the region 2 level.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Bhanu Sood manages NASA Goddard’s Internal Research and Development program, which strategically invests in advanced technologies for NASA’s future science and exploration missions. In this role, Dr. Sood helps develop and infuse innovative aerospace technologies, instruments leveraging quantum sciences, artificial intelligence, autonomy, space optical communication, edge computing and other investments in space systems that are crucial for NASA’s science and exploration goals. As Deputy Chief Technologist, he works closely with the NASA Agency Chief Technologist, the Office of Technology Policy and Strategy (OTPS) and other NASA Center technologists in formulating technology strategies for a sustainable and responsible exploration of space. Dr. Sood’s other roles at NASA have included Division Chief Engineer, Program Manager for Agency Workmanship Standards & Training, and the Risk Assessment process owner for microelectronic technologies used in Goddard’s flight projects.

Prior to joining NASA, Dr. Sood served as the Laboratory Director at University of Maryland’s Center for Advanced Life Cycle Engineering. At CALCE Dr. Sood lead efforts towards the acceleration of U.S. leadership within the semiconductor industry, developed partnerships with global electronics industry participants across a complex ecosystem of microelectronics supply chains, chip fabricators, fabless companies, packaging, designers and tool manufacturers, to target growth and increased reliability for product manufacturers serving communications, healthcare, automotive, aerospace, and defense industries. Previously, he developed laser-based 3-D printing processes and materials at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in Washington DC. He holds five patents, is an IEEE senior member, a member of ASM, and holds a doctorate in electronics reliability, master’s degrees in metallurgy and materials science, and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Dr. Sood serves on the Board of Directors of ASM, the Humanitarian Technologies Board rep for IEEE Region 2, and a member of the Board of University of Maryland’s Engineering Alumni Network.

Abstract: Clinical and animal studies indicate frequent small micro-arousals (McA) fragment sleep leading to health complications. McA in humans is defined by changes in EEG and EMG during sleep. Complex EEG recordings during the night are usually required to detect McA limiting large-scale, prospective studies on McA and their impact on health. Even with the use of EEG, reliably measuring McA can be difficult because of low inter-scorer reliability. Surrogate measures in place of EEG could provide easier and possibly more reliable measures of McA.  These have usually involved measuring heart rate and arm movements. They have not provided a reliable measurement of McA in part because they cannot adequately detect short wake periods and periods of wake after sleep onset. Leg movements in sleep (LMS) offer an attractive alternative.  LMS and cortical arousal, including McA, commonly occur together. Not all McA occur with LMS, but the most clinically significant ones may be those with LMS.  Conversely, most LMS do not occur with McA, but LMS vary considerably in their characteristics. Evaluating LMS characteristics may serve to identify the LMS associated with McA.

In this talk, I will present the design of a novel ankle worn wearable and analytics for characterizing leg movements during sleep and preliminary results on finding associations between leg movements during sleep and McA. Further, I will introduce a set of human subject studies and data sets collected in our lab at University of Maryland Baltimore County with researchers at CCDC-ARL to understand individual and team performance.

Speaker Bio: Nilanjan Banerjee is a professor of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering at University of Maryland Baltimore County. He is the CEO and CSO of two startup companies, Tanzen Medical, Inc. and Lifeplus Inc., that focus on developing sensors systems for physiological monitoring. He is a NSF Career Awardee, a Microsoft Research Software Engineering Innovations Awardee, and has received few awards for his entrepreneurship endeavors. He research focuses on two diverse areas: sensor system design for physiological monitoring and cybersecurity as it relates to manufacturing systems.

Abstract: Chest X-Ray (CXR) is a widely used clinical imaging modality and has a pivotal role in the diagnosis and prognosis of various lung and heart related conditions. Conventional automated clinical diagnostic tool design strategies relying on radiology reads and supervised learning, entail the cumbersome requirement of high-quality annotated training data. To address this challenge, self-supervised pre-training has proven to outperform supervised pre-training in numerous downstream vision tasks, representing a significant breakthrough in the field. However, medical imaging pre-training significantly differs from pre-training with natural images (e.g., ImageNet) due to unique attributes of clinical images. Self-supervised training paradigm  leverages a student teacher framework for learning diverse concepts and hence effective representation of the CXR data. Hence, expanding beyond merely modeling a single primary label within an image, instead, effectively harnessing the information from all the concepts inherent in the CXR. The pre-trained model is subsequently fine-tuned to address diverse domain-specific tasks. Our proposed paradigm consistently demonstrates robust performance across multiple downstream tasks on multiple datasets, highlighting the success and generalizability of the pre-training strategy. The training strategy has been extended for federated learning (FL), which could alleviate the burden of data sharing and enable patient privacy. We will briefly explore the privacy landscape of FL and potential data leakage within the FL paradigm.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Anwar is principal investigator at Children’s National Hospital and Associate Professor of Radiology and Pediatrics at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Within the hospital, he is associated with the Sheikh Zayed Institute (SZI) for Pediatric Surgical Innovation doing cutting edge research in surgical planning, treatment and device innovation. Prior to this, Dr. Anwar was associated with the University of Engineering and Technology, Taxila as associate professor (Tenured) in the Department of Software Engineering and was a Fulbright Research Fellow at the Center for Research in Computer Vision (CRCV) at the University of Central Florida. CRCV is one of the top-ranked computer vision centers in the world. Dr. Anwar’s research interests include developing computational & engineering solutions for healthcare systems that benefit from computer vision, signal processing and artificial intelligence. He has expertise in a wide range of application areas related to machine learning, image and signal processing, and biomedical engineering.

Abstract: With the explosive growth in the capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) assistants, the question of whether technology is making us smarter or dumber is on everyone’s mind. There have been numerous reports of over-reliance on navigation tools resulting in serious accidents. Autonomous driving is coming (maybe). The latest smart phones are incorporating AI.  Our learning habits have changed. ChatGPT is in classrooms. What does this mean to our cognitive capabilities? The latest research is not conclusive. But there is another thing on the horizon. We are heading towards Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) which can perform any intellectual task that humans can do. We do not know when that would be but need to consider its potential impact. And then there is the hypothetical future point of technological singularity where humankind will unite with AI!  What does all this mean? There are no easy answers but we need to think about it, talk about it and prepare for it. This talk will explore this exciting yet uncertain digital landscape.

Speaker Bio: Murty Polavarapu is engaged in developing advanced semiconductor memory and logic products for defense and aerospace markets, especially for space applications. His primary customer is BAE Systems, a large defense/aerospace enterprise.

He also serves as the Managing Director of Virginia Microelectronics Consortium, bringing the academic institutions and microelectronic industries together in the state of Virginia.

He has been an active IEEE volunteer for over twenty years with service at Chapter, Section, Region, MGA, TA, IEEE-USA and IEEE levels. He is currently the President-Elect of IEEE Society on Social Implications of Technology, Secretary of IEEE Electron Devices Society and MGA Vice Chair of Geographic Activities. He is also serving on IEEE Conference Committee’s Technical Program Integrity Committee.

His technical contributions were vital to the development of successive generations of radiation-hardened devices for many satellite programs of US Department of Defense and NASA. Murty also worked in the commercial semiconductor sector bringing advanced generations of DRAM and Flash memory products to high volume manufacturing. His career includes management and technical leadership roles at various companies including BAE Systems, IBM, Lockheed Martin, Micron, and Toshiba.

He holds eleven patents and received numerous honors including the BAE Systems Chairman’s Silver Award, Dominion Semiconductor President’s Award (Toshiba), Lockheed Martin Executive Award, IBM Outstanding Technical Achievement Award and IBM Invention Achievement Award.

His IEEE recognitions include 2024 IEEE Region 2 Outstanding Service Award, IEEE Regional Activities Achievement Award, Northern Virginia Section James F. Strother Meritorious Service Award and Volunteer of the Year Award, among others.
On a two-year leave of absence from IBM, he served as a United States Peace Corps volunteer in rural Fiji teaching physics and mathematics at high school level. He also co-founded TEE Charity, a nonprofit organization to help bring computers to schools in Ethiopia.

Murty earned his Masters in Electrical Engineering from Howard University and Masters in Technology Management from University of Pennsylvania.

Abstract: The recent increase in e-commerce, IOT, and online activities since COVID, has made the cyber security critical. In the last decade the developments in deep learning have been revolutionary. Many computational tasks which seemed hopeless have been accomplished beyond optimistic expectations. Many security mechanisms which were robust have started looking vulnerable. But many AI techniques are also being useful in hardening the security measures. A critical outline of this situation is being presented in this lecture.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Vivek Shandilya is assistant professor in the department of computer science and the director of SOPSS Lab (www.sopss.org) in Bowie State University. He got his bachelor degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Bangalore University, MS and PhD in Computer Science from University of Memphis. His work involves investigating and establishing the structures in the interaction of intelligent agents with conflicting & mutually unknown motivations in stochastic systems. This problem manifests in optimization & security situations of computational, biological, and socio-economic systems. His current projects are related to the cyber security, recommendation systems, and security of cloud and IOT in healthcare applications.

Abstract: Advances in miniature-sized microelectronics have created the opportunity to build ultra-small sensing & actuating devices that can be implanted, ingested or worn on the surface of the human body. Adding wireless communication capability to these devices enables the possibility of continuous delivery and processing of important health or physiological data. As a result, complex analyses and functions can be performed by connecting multiple devices to each other or to the external IT infrastructure. Lack of reference computational models and clear requirements for communicating physiological data, reliability and security issues, energy constraint and interoperability are among the many challenges facing this multi-disciplinary technical field. In this talk, a brief review of some of the recent activities in this area and a perspective on future opportunities and challenges will be presented.

Speaker Bio: Kamran Sayrafian is a Senior Scientist at the Information Technology Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) located in Gaithersburg, Maryland where he leads a strategic program related to the application of the Internet-of-Things (IoT) in healthcare. He is also an affiliate Associate Prof. of Concordia University in Montreal, Canada since 2016 and the co-chair of the Vertical Track on Health and Well-Being at the COST CA20120 “Intelligence-Enabling Radio Communications for Seamless Inclusive Interactions”. Prior to joining NIST, he was the cofounder of Zagros Networks, Inc. a fabless semiconductor company based in Rockville, Maryland where he served as the President and senior member of the architecture team. Dr. Sayrafian has served as the Technical Program Committee and Executive Co-Chair of the IEEE PIMRC 2014 and organizer of several other IEEE Communication Society Conferences and international workshops focused on the applications of wireless communication in healthcare. He was also a member of the Editorial Board of the IEEE Wireless Communication Magazine from 2016 to 2020. His current research interests include body area networks, micro energy-harvesting, automatic exposure notification, and IoT technology in healthcare. He has published over 140 conference and journal papers, and book chapters, and has been the recipient of several best paper awards. Dr. Sayrafian was a major contributor to the development of the IEEE802.15.6 international standard on Body Area Networks; and the recipient of the 2015 U.S. Department of Commerce Bronze Medal for his contribution to this emerging field. In 2014, he also served as the U.S. Embassy Science Fellow in Croatia. Dr. Sayrafian is the co-inventor/inventor of four U.S. patents and a Fellow of the Washington Academy of Sciences.

Abstract: Motivated by its potential to provide quality patient care while relieving the workload of clinicians, closed-loop automation is gaining an increasing interest in the domain of critical care medicine.  To date, there have been notable advances in closed-loop automation of individual critical care treatments, such as fluid resuscitation and management, vasopressor therapy, anesthesia, and mechanical ventilation. However, how these individual closed-loop automated treatments will interact with each other when simultaneously used remains unknown. In addition, the design of individual treatment control loops has resorted to empiric tuning rather than sound mathematical analysis in many existing methods reported in the literature. In this talk, I will use closed-loop automated fluid resuscitation and IV sedation as a case scenario to demonstrate that (i) closed-loop automated critical care treatments may conflict with each other; (ii) holistic hemodynamic monitoring to infer internal physiological variables not amenable to direct measurement may be required to detect and resolve such conflicts; and (iii) individual treatment control loops may be mediated by control barrier function-based safety preserving control.  We also present a control design approach applicable to robust stabilization of individual treatment control loops with absolute stability guarantee. I will conclude the talk with future opportunities in closed-loop automation in the critical care arena.

Speaker Bio: Jin Oh Hahn (Senior Member, IEEE) received the B.S. and M.S. degrees in mechanical engineering from Seoul National University, in 1997 and 1999, respectively, and the Ph.D. degree in mechanical engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), in 2008. He is currently with the University of Maryland, where he is a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, a Fischell Fellow of the Robert E. Fischell Institute for Biomedical Devices, and a Faculty Affiliate of the Applied Mathematics, Statistics, and Scientific Computation (AMSC) Program. His current research interests include applications of dynamical systems, control, machine learning theory to health monitoring, fault diagnostics, and maintenance and treatment of dynamical systems, with an emphasis on health and medicine. He was a recipient of the NIBIB Trailblazer Award from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), in 2023, the IEEE EMBS Most Impactful Paper Award from the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, in 2019, the Faculty Early Career Development (CARRER) Award from the National Science Foundation (NSF), in 2018, the Young Investigator Program Award from the Office of Naval Research (ONR), in 2014, the Young Investigator Grant Award from Korean–American Scientists and Engineers Association (KSEA), in 2013, and the Outstanding Gemstone Mentor Award from the Gemstone Honors Program with the University of Maryland, in 2019. He is an Associate Editor of Journal of Dynamic Systems, Measurement, and Control (ASME) and ACM Transactions on Computing for Healthcare.

Abstract: The electric power business is a regulated and the most capital-intensive industry. To provide economically efficient energy services, utilities build grids just big enough to deliver electricity to homes and businesses. With the rapid build-out of powerful data centers designed to run AI workloads, electricity demand is projected to grow at a tenfold increase rate from current levels through the end of the decade. This presentation will assess the challenges of this new load growth, and highlight how the industry is prepared to address its impact while continuing delivery of reliable, affordable, sustainable energy and powering the economies of the world.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Edvina Uzunovic has over 25 years of experience with a range of responsibilities in power systems industry and academia.  Edvina has a B.Sc. from the University of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, M.Sc., and doctorate degree in electrical and computer engineering from the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.  She is very active in her volunteer work with the IEEE Power and Energy Society, 2016 – 2020 served as IEEE PES Vice President Education, nominated for IEEE PES President Elect in 2021, and currently involved in numerous IEEE PES Committees.

Abstract: Recent years have witnessed an increased interest in the applications of underwater networks (UNs). The conventional UN design: (i) employs acoustic signals for establishing communication links among submerged nodes, and (ii) deploys floating nodes to interface the UN through radio links to non-sea based units and to correlate the node positions to a global coordinate system. However, such an approach could be impractical for extended missions, ineffective for rapid response scenarios, and/or undesirable for covert operations. Moreover, little attention has been paid to mitigating frequent breaks in UN connectivity due to node drifts and time varying properties of the underwater environment. We are addressing these shortcomings through the development of innovative communication mechanisms for reaching an UN directly from an aerial mobile unit (AMU). We are pursuing two options. The first is based on free-space optics. The second utilizes the optoacoustic effect to create a downlink where a controlled laser beam is directed toward the water surface to generate an underwater acoustic signal. We have also developed encoding methods for forming reliable optoacoustic downlinks where laser properties are controlled by the AMU to generate a modulated signal in the underwear environment. This talk will highlight the technical issues and present our results.

Speaker Bio: Mohamed F. Younis is currently a professor and chair of the department of computer science and electrical engineering at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC). Before joining UMBC, he was with Honeywell International Inc., where he led multiple projects for building dependable computing infrastructure. He also participated in the development of the Redundancy Management System, which is a key component of the Vehicle and Mission Computer for NASA’s X-33 space launch vehicle. Dr. Younis’ technical interest includes network architectures and protocols, applications of artificial intelligence, cyber-physical systems, intelligent transportation systems, secure communication and IoT networks. He has published over 350 technical papers in refereed conferences and journals. His contribution to science and engineering is acknowledged by the large number of (over 26 thousands) citations of his work and his high h-index (62). He is also deemed among the top 2% of world scientists in the 2024 rankings by Stanford University. Dr. Younis has nine granted and three pending patents. In addition, he serves/served on the editorial board of multiple journals and the organizing and technical program committees of numerous conferences.  Dr. Younis is a Fellow of the IEEE and the IEEE communications society.

Abstract: There are three waves of Artificial Intelligence. The first Wave of AI is Crafted Knowledge, which includes rule-based AI systems. The second wave of AI is Statistical Learning, which includes machine becoming intelligent by using statistical methods. The third wave of AI is contextual adaptation. In the third wave, instead of learning from data, intelligent machines will understand and perceive the world on its own, and learn by understanding the world and reason with it. Neurosymbolic AI, which combines neural networks with symbolic representations, has emerged as a promising solution of the third wave of AI. In this talk, I will share my journey from internet of things to incremental learning and transfer learning to neurosymbolic AI; then I will present my perspective on the emerging area with focus on neurosymbolic transfer learning, neurosymbolic reinforcement learning, and neurosymbolic AI verification and validation (testing and evaluation).

Speaker Bio:

Houbing Herbert Song (F’23) received the Ph.D. degree in electrical engineering from the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, in August 2012.

He is currently an Associate Professor, the Founding Director of the NSF Center for Aviation Big Data Analytics, the Associate Director for Leadership of the DOT Transportation Cybersecurity Center for Advanced Research and Education (Tier 1 Center), and the Director of the Security and Optimization for Networked Globe Laboratory (SONG Lab, www.SONGLab.us), University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), Baltimore, MD. He has been the Founding Chair of Trustworthy Internet of Things (TRUST-IoT) Working Group within IEEE IoT Technical Community since 2024. He is a Distinguished Visiting Fellow of the Scottish Informatics and Computer Science Alliance (SICSA). He serves as an Associate Editor for IEEE Transactions on Artificial Intelligence (TAI) (2023-present), IEEE Internet of Things Journal (2020-present), IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems (2021-present), and IEEE Journal on Miniaturization for Air and Space Systems (J-MASS) (2020-present). He was an Associate Technical Editor for IEEE Communications Magazine (2017-2020). He is the editor of 10+ books, the author of more than 100 articles and the inventor of 2 patents. His research interests include AI/machine learning/big data analytics, cyber-physical systems/internet of things, and cybersecurity and privacy. His research has been sponsored by federal agencies (including National Science Foundation, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, US Department of Transportation, and Federal Aviation Administration, among others) and industry. His research has been featured on popular news media outlets, including IEEE Spectrum, IEEE GlobalSpec’s Engineering360, IEEE Transmitter, insideBIGDATA, StateTech Magazine, Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), Security Magazine, CXOTech Magazine, Fox News, U.S. News & World Report, The Washington Times, and New Atlas.

Dr. Song is an IEEE Fellow, an Asia-Pacific Artificial Intelligence Association (AAIA) Fellow, an ACM Distinguished Member, and a Full Member of Sigma Xi. Dr. Song has been a Highly Cited Researcher identified by Web of Science since 2021. He is an ACM Distinguished Speaker (2020-present), an IEEE Computer Society Distinguished Visitor (2024-present), an IEEE Communications Society (ComSoc) Distinguished Lecturer (2024-present), an IEEE Intelligent Transportation Systems Society (ITSS) Distinguished Lecturer (2024-present), an IEEE Vehicular Technology Society (VTS) Distinguished Lecturer (2023-present) and an IEEE Systems Council Distinguished Lecturer (2023-present). Dr. Song received Research.com Rising Star of Science Award in 2022, IEEE 2021 Harry Rowe Mimno Award, and 10+ Best Paper Awards from major international conferences. He has been an IEEE Impact Creator since 2023.

Abstract: Nowadays polarized light is widely used in various fields, including optical fiber communications, polarization telescopes, LCD display, 3D movies, medical imaging, sunglasses with polarized Lenses, etc.

This talk focuses on the applications of polarized light in ophthalmology. Of interest is the interaction of ophthalmic structures, such as the retina and the cornea, with polarized light. These structures are birefringent, meaning that they have different refractive indices depending on the polarization of light passing through or being reflected by them. Birefringence can be used for diagnostic purposes, i.e. measuring the thickness of the nerve fiber layer in the optic disc, identifying the location of the fovea, mapping polarization-sensitive parts of the retina, detecting corneal disorders, etc. However, working with polarized light for diagnostics requires significant knowledge of polarization optics, including but not limited to mathematical description of the polarization state of light (Stokes vectors), representation of optical materials and components by means of Mueller matrices, and using the Mueller calculus or Jones formalism, along with the Poincare sphere, to model optical systems, reduce optical noise, and compensate for polarization aberrations. The presentation shows how computer modeling can aid the design and optimization of polarization-sensitive diagnostic devices used for the purpose of assessing eye alignment using retinal birefringence scanning, utilized for detecting amblyopia (lazy eye).

The talk further discusses the integration of polarization-sensitive ophthalmic systems with systems that don’t employ polarization. This is not always trivial because the latter tend to introduce additional polarization aberrations that need to be balanced (compensated) optically. As an example, the speaker discusses the integration of a retinal birefringence scanning system with an optical coherence tomograph in a combined diagnostic system.

The presentation touches upon polarimetric measurement of the Mueller matrices of separate components as well as whole optical modules, to be used for modeling and optimization.

Finally, several ophthalmic diagnostic devices are presented, based on polarization-sensitive optics.

Speaker Bio: Boris Gramatikov obtained his Dipl.-Ing. degree in Biomedical Engineering in Germany, and his Ph.D. in Bulgaria. He has completed a number of postdoctoral studies in Germany, Italy and the United States. He joined the faculty of the Biomedical Engineering Department of The Johns Hopkins University in 1996, and has been working in the Laboratory of Ophthalmic Instrumentation Development at The Wilmer Eye Institute since 2000. His areas of expertise include electronics, optoelectronics, computers, computer modeling, signal/image processing, data analysis and diagnostic classification, instrumentation design, biophotonics, ophthalmic and biomedical optics, polarization optics, all applied to the development of diagnostic methods and devices for ophthalmology and vision research. His team has developed a series of pediatric vision screeners. He has authored 148 publications, 49 of which in high-impact peer-reviewed journals, and one book chapter. He serves as a reviewer and editorial board member with a number of technical and medical journals. Boris is the Director for Continuous Electrical Engineering Education (CEEE) at the Baltimore Section of the IEEE. He is the inventor or co-inventor on six issued U.S. patents. His professional achievements have been recognized through several major awards. Dr. Gramatikov currently holds the position of Associate Professor at the Wilmer Eye Institute of The Johns Hopkins University.

https://boris-gramatikov.net/

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/profiles/details/boris-gramatikov

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/-/media/wilmer/documents/cvs/gramatikov-cv.pdf

Abstract: Mounting stress levels across generations have created an urgent need to explore the scientific basis of holistic, personalized, and non-pharmacological approaches to stress management. While many complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices, such as yoga, acupuncture, and mindfulness, demonstrate measurable physiological benefits, there remains a critical gap in understanding how mind-body balance can be effectively sustained over time. Research indicates that providing timely, personalized feedback can reinforce positive health behaviors, yet the mechanisms by which mind-body fitness impacts long-term behavioral adherence are not fully understood.

Though there is substantial research on individual physiological markers, such as heart rate variability, and cognitive markers, including accuracy and reaction time in cognitive tasks, few efforts have successfully integrated these components into a single, cohesive assessment of mind-body fitness. By combining both physiologic and cognitive markers in a unified system, our approach offers a more comprehensive measure of mind-body integration. This novel methodology allows for a holistic understanding of how stress and wellness practices affect both the mind and body simultaneously, rather than examining them in isolation.

This talk will introduce the Neurometryx System (NS), a scientifically grounded assessment tool designed to measure mind-body fitness. The NS integrates psychophysiology, signal processing, and machine learning to assess key physiological markers related to autonomic nervous system regulation and cognitive performance. This innovative approach provides real-time feedback, enabling individuals to better understand the interaction between their physiological and cognitive responses to stress. The presentation will also demonstrate the validity of this model as a robust tool for promoting mind-body balance.

Speaker Bio: Justin Brooks, M.D., Ph.D. is a physician-engineer and scientist. He has academic appointments as an Associate Professor of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering at UMBC and at the University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing.  In the private sector, Dr. Brooks works with D-Prime LLC to develop biomedical engineering solutions for psychophysiologic analysis, Tanzen Medical to develop an FDA-designated breakthrough device for sleep medicine, and Clinilabs Corporation for AI/Device integration. Prior to these positions, Dr. Brooks has served as a Medical Director at a publicly traded pharmaceutical company and as a civilian scientist at the Army Research Laboratory leading multimillion dollar applied research initiatives.

Abstract: This presentation will start by giving some practical “lessons learned” from running an independent consulting firm and how I benefited from having a P.E. licensure and membership in NSPE (National Society for Professional Engineers). I will then give an overview of the activities that are undertaken by NSPE and look into possible synergies between IEEE and NSPE activities that could be mutually beneficial. Finally, I will expand on one of the latest initiatives undertaken by NSPE for developing a certification for Systems Software Integrators. The incorporation of intelligence implies highly interconnected and automated systems that are now having to deal with issues related to cybersecurity vulnerabilities and ethical/legal concerns related to AI. NSPE has identified the need for professional certification of Software Systems Integrators to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with safety standards. Spreading awareness about this certification will aid in its acceptance and help the industry ensure baseline standards of excellence for smart engineering solutions. Learning Objectives: The process of winning consulting projects, Understanding the Role of NSPE, Identifying collaborative activities between NSPE and IEEE

Speaker Bio: Girija is the founder of a specialist consulting company; Forcing Function LLC with over 25 years of experience in the technology sector in the USA, UK, Canada and India. A practicing engineer, her working experience spans 2 major industries – telecommunications and transportation. She is currently using her unique cross-disciplinary experience to collaborate with startups and research agencies to design solutions for transportation. Girija has an undergraduate degree in Electronics Engineering from the University of Bombay and a graduate degree in Signal Processing and Communication Systems for the University of Virginia. Girija is a member of National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) Emerging Technology Committee and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Workgroup Lead She is licensed in Maryland and California and is the outgoing President and Social Media chair of her local engineering chapter, Potomac chapter of Maryland Society of Professional Engineers (MDSPE).

Abstract: In this invited talk, we will delve into the cutting-edge advancements in vibrational energy harvesting technology, with a particular focus on the design and integration of smart materials and structural systems. Vibrational energy, available in various environments, has emerged as one of the compelling alternative energy sources, offering the potential to power sensors and small electronics without the need for traditional battery replacement or external power supplies. By leveraging vibrational energy, we can realize self-powering devices capable of operating independently for extended periods. This presentation will explore the major challenges and opportunities in the design of vibrational energy harvesters, examining the principles behind energy conversion techniques such as piezoelectric, electromagnetic, triboelectric, and magnetostrictive systems. Special emphasis will be placed on the practical application of these technologies for real-world energy systems, particularly wind turbine monitoring. The talk will highlight key developments of the speaker’s research over a decade, offering insights into ongoing design and implementation challenges that must be addressed to make these systems truly practicable in large-scale industrial applications.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Soobum Lee obtained his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in 2007. He has worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) and the University of Maryland, College Park; and as a research assistant professor at the University of Notre Dame. He is currently an associate professor at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. His main research interests include energy harvester design, topology optimization, robust design, reliability-based design optimization, and machine learning based engineering system design. His portfolio includes authorship of more than 100 international peer-reviewed publications, and he is currently the principal investigator of the Energy Harvesting & Design Optimization Lab (EDLab) at UMBC.

Abstract: Integrating neural networks and machine learning techniques has ushered in a revolution in various fields, including electromagnetic inversion, geophysical exploration, and microwave imaging. While these techniques have significantly improved image reconstruction and the resolution of complex inverse scattering problems, we will discuss a different research question: Can near-field electromagnetic waves be harnessed for object classification?

Speaker Bio: Dr. Simsek received a B.S. degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Bilkent University in 2001 and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Duke University in 2003 and 2006, respectively. After working as a postdoctoral research associate at Schlumberger-Doll Research and a faculty member at Bahcesehir University and George Washington University, he joined the University of Maryland Baltimore County in 2018, where currently he is an Assistant Professor and the Director of Graduate Data Science Programs.

Abstract:Fusion energy, the combination of light nuclei that releases enormous amounts of energy while forming heavier elements, has long been considered the ultimate source of energy for its many benefits over other sources: abundant and virtually inexhaustible fuel, no generation of greenhouse gases, proliferation resistant, and no long-lived radioactive waste. However, the conditions required for sustained fusion, a high enough density confined and heated to temperatures hotter than the center of the sun, have posed significant challenges to demonstrating the net production of energy through fusion.  Decades of research in physics and engineering have been aimed at overcoming such challenges and have brought us to the brink of realizing fusion energy at commercial scales. Not only has our understanding of the physics matured enough to produce net energy system designs, but funding for fusion research and development has also increased from both public and private entities. Although there are many concepts being researched to achieve net fusion energy gain conditions, there is a huge variation on the level of engineering complexity, and therefore costs, that these have. The centrifugal mirror is a magnetic confinement concept that is remarkable for its engineering simplicity compared to other fusion concepts. It consists of a minimum of two circular electromagnets linearly arranged such that the magnetic field between them acts as a potential well that traps the hot plasma that can then be heated to thermonuclear conditions. Plasma heating and stabilization is achieved in the centrifugal mirror by imposing a radial electric field at the axis of the configuration, such that plasma experiences an azimuthal drift that is naturally sheared. This shear in turn leads to viscous heating and prevents the plasma from drifting radially outwards, achieving self-heating and dramatically better confinement than magnetic mirrors without rotation.

The Centrifugal Mirror Fusion Experiment (CMFX), a research effort led by UMBC in partnership with the University of Maryland, College Park, has been funded since 2020 by ARPA-E to test the physics of centrifugal mirrors and demonstrate magnetic confinement at parameters relevant to sustained fusion production. The CMFX is the second-generation centrifugal mirror at Maryland, but the first one in the world to use superconducting coils, with a maximum field of 3-T. It is also the first one to achieve sustained operation for up to 10 seconds (limited only by the passive cooling of components). Temperatures, densities, and momentum confinement times in CMFX are now high enough as to produce small amounts of fusion energy when experimenting with deuterium plasmas. The success in CMFX has spurred the ongoing engineering design of the next centrifugal mirror machine, led by the commercial spinoff of CMFX, the Terra Fusion Energy Corporation. This new machine will be aimed at demonstrating net energy gain in a small (1 – 10 MWe) modular system that can be used in industrial facilities that require resiliency, such as data centers, and will serve as an intermediate step for systems that can provide 50 MWe or more for regional power generation.

Speaker Bio: Carlos A. Romero-Talamás received his B.S. in Engineering Physics from the Instituto Technológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, México in 1995; a Master of Space Studies from the International Space University, Strasbourg, France in 1998; a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Applied Physics from the California Institute of Technology in 2005. He worked as a postdoctoral scholar on the Sustained Spheromak Physics Experiment (SSPX) at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory until 2008. That year he joined the University of Maryland’s Institute for Research in Applied Physics as a Research Scientist working on experimental plasma physics, including high-temperature plasma confinement on the Maryland Centrifugal Experiment (MCX), and on atmospheric plasmas created by lasers and terahertz electromagnetic radiation. Since 2013 he has been at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) where he is an associate professor and has served in various roles, including as Graduate Program director in the department of Mechanical Engineering. In 2014 he received the DARPA Young Faculty Award for Alternate Fusion Concepts, and in 2015 received the University System of Maryland’s PROMISE AGEP Outstanding Faculty Mentor award, and in 2023 the Mid-Career Faculty Excellence Award for the College of Engineering and Information Technology at UMBC. Romero-Talamás is currently the PI of several projects, including the Centrifugal Mirror Fusion Experiment, aimed at advancing the performance of a lower-cost fusion energy concept. His research interests also include dusty plasmas, plasma diagnostics, magnetic self-organization, and plasma-facing components for engineering applications.

Abstract: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death globally, with exacerbations significantly increasing morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs due to frequent hospital readmissions. Early detection is crucial for timely interventions that can often be managed at home, reducing strain on healthcare systems and improving patient outcomes. However, traditional monitoring methods like spirometry and plethysmography are impractical for continuous remote use due to their cost and complexity. This presentation introduces the WearME system—a novel, wearable, multi-modal electroacoustic device designed for remote, continuous monitoring of COPD patients. Employing bilateral acoustic sensing and automated breathing segmentation, WearME captures and analyzes lung sounds to quantify airflow obstructions, enabling early detection of exacerbations. Previous studies published in the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America and Elsevier’s Smart Health have demonstrated the system’s capability to differentiate between healthy individuals and COPD patients through signal-to-noise ratio analysis of breathing sounds. Building on these results, our newly NIH-funded longitudinal study aims to validate WearME’s efficacy in real-world settings. We will discuss challenges and solutions in automated breathing sound analysis and explore the potential impact on healthcare delivery and patient quality of life. Attendees will gain insights into developing cutting-edge wearable technologies for managing chronic diseases and learn about the interdisciplinary efforts required to bring such innovations from concept to clinical practice.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Lloyd Emokpae is the CEO, CTO, and co-founder of LASARRUS Clinic and Research Center. With a specialized background in acoustical engineering and signal processing, he received his Ph.D. in Computer Engineering from the University of Maryland Baltimore County in 2013. Starting his career as an Electrical Engineer at the U.S. Army Aberdeen Test Center (ATC) in Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, Dr. Emokpae pioneered the development of novel data acquisition technologies tailored for automotive, C4ISR, and body armor applications. He later transitioned to the Naval Research Laboratory as a senior research scientist and Electrical Engineer, leading the development of communication systems for undersea acoustic applications and earning a research publication award from the U.S. Navy in 2019 for his work in acoustic communications. Dr. Emokpae has over seventeen years of experience with over 20 publications, 2 issued patents, and 4 pending patents. He led the team in the design of the novel smart wearable that won the global Intel contest in 2018. His current entrepreneurship and research endeavors in wearable acoustic technology are a natural progression from his earlier work, aiming to create significant societal and commercial impacts.

Abstract: The vast majority of people who have interacted with Generative AI have only used familiar large foundation models such as ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini via a web interface. Consequently, prompt engineering became popular and dominated many users’ attention. Here at the AI Lab in the Center for Applied AI, we focus on building applications, solving problems, and gaining experience with a broader spectrum of tools and technologies. We code against APIs provided by LLMs for rapid prototyping. While foundation models are crucial for certain problem classes, privacy remains a major concern. Privacy, safety, and hallucinations continue to be significant roadblocks for broader AI adoption. Our work on Small Language Models (SLMs) addresses these privacy concerns. These models, though typically less powerful than LLMs, offer several advantages in problem-solving and application development. Most are open-source and can run locally on small devices and personal laptops. This talk will describe how to also leverage RAG and fine-tuning to utilize this broader set of technologies, enabling the development of targeted, secure applications that rely on your organization’s internal data.

Speaker Bio: Tom Cain directs the AI Lab within the Center for Applied AI at UMBC Training Centers. He focuses on Generative AI applications for business efficiency, leveraging foundation models and in-house fine-tuned solutions. He currently leads a team of AI Engineers in evaluating and benchmarking cutting-edge AI tools and technologies, with a focus on LLMs, SLMs, RAG strategies, Vector DBs, and embedding models for impactful proof-of-concept applications. His team has produced whitepapers on Generative AI that contribute to industry education and best practices.

With 15 years of experience across three successful software startups, Cain has held diverse roles including product training, customer success, and data engineering. He has also authored dozens of technical courses in programming languages and software development, and published scholarly articles and whitepapers.

An accomplished speaker and educator, Cain has taught hundreds of Computer Science and IT training classes and delivered webinars and conference talks internationally. He holds advanced degrees in Mathematics and Computer Science from Penn State and UMBC, providing a strong theoretical foundation for his practical expertise in AI and software development.

Abstract: While data centers often take the spotlight in cloud discussions, the networks connecting them and enabling user access are the true unsung heroes of cloud performance. This presentation will explore the critical role of the three core networks – data center, private WAN, and public WAN – and showcase how their synergy drives superior cloud experiences.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the often-overlooked importance of network infrastructure in achieving optimal cloud performance.
• Learn how the data center network, private WAN, and public WAN each contribute to the overall cloud experience.
• Discover how software-defined networking (SDN) revolutionizes private and public WAN management for enhanced agility and efficiency.
• Gain practical insights into designing, deploying, and optimizing these networks for maximum performance, scalability, and security.
• Explore emerging trends and technologies that will shape the future of cloud networking.

Topics to be Covered:

• The critical role of the data center network in enabling efficient communication between cloud resources.
• The evolution of private WANs from legacy MPLS to software-defined solutions for enhanced flexibility and control.
• The emergence of software-defined public WANs as a key differentiator for user experience and application performance.
• Key technologies and protocols driving innovation in each network type.
• Best practices for network design, deployment, and management in a cloud environment.
• The importance of network monitoring and visibility for proactive troubleshooting and performance optimization.
• The impact of multi-cloud and edge computing on network architecture and design.
• Future trends and technologies shaping the next generation of cloud networking.

Speaker Bio: Vinay Tripathi is a highly accomplished Network Engineering leader with over 19 years of experience, driving innovation and operational excellence in network infrastructure. Proven ability to lead complex projects, optimize network performance, and deliver customer-centric solutions. Expertise in a wide range of networking technologies, including routing protocols (ISIS, OSPF, BGP), MPLS, VPNs, automation (Python, Golang), and data center technologies (EVPN/VXLAN). Holds three JNCIE certifications and multiple patents for innovative networking technologies. Active in the professional community as a Senior Member of IEEE and Treasurer of the IEEE Northern Virginia section. Passionate about building robust, scalable, and secure networks for the next generation.

Abstract: Our electrical grid is a stunning example of human ingenuity and engineering. It is the biggest just-in-time machine on the planet. Utilities do a tremendous job managing the delicate just-in-time balance of supply and demand. However, the utility systems are becoming increasingly complex and are facing new challenges and disruptions due to increased focus on just and clean energy transition; decarbonization goals; increasing penetration of variable energy resources; energy poverty and changing customer preferences; climate induced events and cyber and physical threats to critical infrastructure. Utilities need to find new approaches to plan, modernize and equip themselves to meet these challenges and prepare for the low carbon net-zero future. Building and leveraging demand flexibility, enhancing capability of utility personnel to understand and operate in future scenarios and making grid flexible and resilience will be cornerstones of these new approaches.

Speaker Bio: As Utility Management Director for Global Markets at Tetra Tech, Mr. Singh leads the utility management and sector reform practice across clients and geographies. He specializes in energy sector reform and restructuring, regulatory and policy advocacy, renewable project development and smart grid initiatives. He has worked in more than fifteen countries across North America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Abstract: My proposal for the Baltimore IEEE Conference is a presentation on the technical overlap of electronic communications theory and power systems theory. In particular, the presentation will discuss transmission lines for these fields of electrical engineering. Transmission lines in communications are twisted pair cables and coax cables carrying RF (radio frequency) energy, while transmission lines in power systems are large conductors carrying high voltage power energy. In both cases, inductance and capacitance are significant components of modeling the transmission lines. The proposed poster paper and presentation will discuss when inductance dominates and when capacitance dominates and how you must model both for proper analysis of an energy transfer.

The presentation would follow the outline: (1) A discussion of energy transfer in communication systems and power systems; (2) Power transmission and communications transmission impacted by the media it travels through; (3) Resistance, inductance, and capacitance in both types of energy transfer; (4) Lumped modeling of inductance and capacitance in communications and power transmission; and (5) Academic benefits with an emphasis on the understanding and discussions of the two energy transfers leading to a better grasp of electrical engineering theory. Students would see the interrelationships and can make new associations leading to a greater interest in higher studies and research. Communications and power engineering are linked by fundamental principles that can be better absorbed with further study.

The discussion would include how the surface resistance of transmission lines impact the transfer of energy and the nature of the delays of energy transmission due to the physical media. The types of models of transmission lines and how they relate between communications and power systems and the logic behind the lumped models of system components would be emphasized. Using inductors and capacitors as filters where filters can be used to mitigate high frequency harmonics with low pass filters and bandpass filters and used with power line carrier will conclude the presentation. Power line carrier used for interleaved communications in a power line transfer for pilot relaying allows for the merging of the two fields of study for the benefit of power system protection, emphasizing security and dependability of the power system.

My background is at the master’s level and not a PhD level electrical engineer. Thus, my approach will be a master’s level theory discussion and associated calculations that can benefit the power industry professional and student at the IEEE Conference. The electrical engineer can get a better understanding of how magnetic and electric fields for communication systems and power systems follow the same principles leading towards the Maxwell Equations.

References

1. Louis Frenzel,Principles of Electronic Communication Systems, Fifth Edition,
2. EPRI Power Systems Dynamics Tutorial. EPRI, Palo Alto, CA: 2009. 1016042.

Speaker Bio: Mr. Sandeep Sada (Sadanandan) has worked in the power engineering field for 30 years. His work experience includes the Tennessee Valley Authority in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he worked in the Control Center and supported the SCADA/EMS system for the System Operators. He currently works at the FERC in Washington DC and provides regulatory support for the bulk power system. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering. His goals are to provide quality academic literature for use by professionals and students.

Abstract: This workshop examines the benefits and challenges of widespread solar adoption in Maryland, emphasizing the role of professionals in advancing this technology. The presentation will highlight recent legislative successes, such as the Brighter Tomorrow Act, which extended tax exemptions for community solar projects and established a Solar Renewable Energy Credit multiplier. Attendees will learn about Maryland’s ambitious clean energy goals of 50% by 2030 and 100% by 2035, and the state’s ranking as 10th nationwide for small-scale solar power generation growth. The discussion will cover financial incentives, including the Residential Clean Energy Rebate Program and federal tax credits, which made solar installations more affordable. Environmental benefits, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and water conservation, are quantified. The workshop will address challenges, including contentious solar siting issues and the need for uniform statewide policies. It will explore innovative solutions like community solar projects, which expanded access to clean energy for those unable to install rooftop systems. The presentation will emphasize the importance of professionals becoming early adopters and opinion leaders in their communities. It will provide practical insights on implementation, financing options, and regulatory considerations. The session will conclude by urging attendees to research solar solutions for their own homes and advocate for wider adoption, positioning them as catalysts for sustainable innovation across multiple sectors. Importantly, the workshop will stress the ideal scenario where technical engineering professionals not only act as early adopters and opinion leaders but also collaborate closely with Solar Energy Consultants. This collaboration is presented as a powerful synergy, creating a strong bridge between technology creators and implementation experts. By promoting one another’s work, these professionals could compel a greater number of people to embrace solar technology, ultimately benefiting both individuals and the planet through wider adoption.

Panelist Bio: In 2006, BethAnn transitioned her diverse background in marketing, retail, health education, and advocacy, along with her experience founding two non-profit organizations, into a forward-thinking home products company. From the outset, her mission has been to bridge product design and consumerism with health and sustainability. In 2010, to enhance her ability to vet products that improve indoor air quality, BethAnn earned her professional credentials as a LEED AP (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional). The LEED professional credentials are administered by the Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) based on the U.S. Green Building Council LEED Rating Systems. In January 2023, she expanded WorkingWonders™ to include solar energy consulting. Since then, her primary focus has been on promoting the adoption of solar energy by increasing public awareness and comfort with clean energy solutions. BethAnn is a graduate of University of Maryland, Baltimore County with a degree in B.A. English.

Abstract: In the fast-paced world of career advancement, those who master the art of negotiation set themselves apart. This dynamic session offers powerful techniques and strategies to transform the way you approach career development and seize opportunities. Whether you’re negotiating your first job offer or navigating the complexities of executive compensation, you gain the tools to advocate for your true value and drive your career forward.

Unlock the secrets to negotiating salaries, bonuses, stock options, and a host of other benefits that can shape your professional journey. This session goes beyond basic negotiation tactics to provide a comprehensive framework for success. By the end, you’ll know how to strategically plan your negotiations, create win-win outcomes, and confidently adapt your style to any situation. The knowledge and skills gained here will empower you to take control of your career trajectory and ensure that you don’t just accept what you’re offered—you negotiate what you deserve.

Learning Objectives:
1. Master the skills and techniques needed to navigate career development, excel in interviews, and secure compelling compensation packages.
2. Learn to identify and craft win-win scenarios, tailoring your negotiation approach to various career contexts for maximum impact.
3. Gain advanced tools for strategic negotiation planning, including how to leverage trade-offs, overcome obstacles, and achieve favorable agreements.

Your career is too important to leave to chance. Join this session and learn how to negotiate with confidence, clarity, and power to accelerate your path to success.

Panel Session Synopsis: Women in STEM have been at the forefront of groundbreaking innovations, from space exploration to artificial intelligence and genetic research. This panel will bring together distinguished women leaders in science, technology and engineering to discuss their journeys, challenges, and triumphs in fields traditionally dominated by men. Through a dynamic discussion, panelists will share insights into how they have navigated and transformed their industries, the role of mentorship and diversity in fostering innovation, and strategies for empowering the next generation of female STEM leaders. This session aims to highlight not only the remarkable achievements of women in STEM but also to explore actionable steps toward creating a more inclusive and equitable future in these critical fields. Attendees will leave inspired and equipped with a deeper understanding of how diverse leadership is shaping the future of STEM.

Speaker Bio: Donna Haire is CEO of The Eriah Group, Inc. which specializes in global regulatory, quality, clinical and medical affairs consulting services for drugs, biologics, medical devices/in vitro diagnostics, and combination products. She is a Board Member at both FluoGuide A/S and Sedana Medical AB and is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in healthcare, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries. Donna Haire has extensive experience in regulatory, quality, clinical affairs, operations, business development, and R&D.

She has held positions as the Executive Vice President, Regulatory and Quality at On Target Laboratories, Vice President, Head of Medical Care Global Regulatory Affairs at Bayer, Senior Vice President of Regulatory, Quality, Clinical, and Medical Affairs at AngioDynamics and has held senior level positions at Philips Healthcare and Medtronic. She was an Adjunct Professor at the University of Akron School of Law. She served as an AdvaMed Technical and Regulatory Board Committee Member and a Board of Directors Authorized Representative.

Donna Haire was designated a U.S. regulatory expert to lead multiple international trade negotiations in regulatory convergence. She has been a keynote speaker and panelist for numerous regulatory and compliance events worldwide. She holds an M.S. in Biology from Cleveland State University and a B.S. in Biology from The University of Akron.

Abstract: In today’s competitive job market, young professionals face the challenge of navigating a wide range of career options, industries, and networking opportunities. This talk offers strategic insights into the job search process, exploring essential topics such as effective networking, leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, and mastering interviews. Attendees will gain practical tools to confidently approach the job market and shape their professional identities in alignment with their long-term career aspirations. Whether new graduates or early-career professionals, participants will leave with actionable strategies to help them stand out and succeed in today’s dynamic job environment.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Rowena Winkler is the Assistant Director for Graduate Student Career Development at the UMBC Career Center, where she provides career guidance and support to graduate students through appointments, group sessions, workshops, and programs. She uses her Ph.D. in Communication, along with her 15+ years of experience in marketing and communication, to help individuals gain clarity in their jobs, businesses, and lives through more authentic communication practices. As an award-winning teacher and scholar, Rowena presented at international conferences and mentored hundreds of undergraduate and graduate students. She then made a career pivot from academia to industry, leading communication teams and managing marketing projects. Now as a career and empowerment coach, Rowena’s methods enable clients and students to build confidence, get unstuck, and land their dream careers.

Panel Session Synopsis: Technology plays a crucial role in addressing society’s most essential needs, such as the goal of providing equitable healthcare for all. Global healthcare systems, with their plurality of structures and management arrangements among several unrelated organizations with various goals, information sources, and payment models, are ill-equipped to handle the complex current environment in which their patients live.

A Transdisciplinary Framework for a continuum of care can provide a structured approach that integrates the healthcare ecosystem, networks, technologies, enablers, and governance functions for current and future considerations.

This session will address the following key concepts:
– Creating a “scalable modularity” for the ecosystem to dynamically adjust to the changing risks, requirements, and locations of care of patients and their caregivers
– Framing the continuum of care with a focus on precision, individualized care, and removing barriers to care
– Establishing the related continuum of care framework with several related ecosystem stages through a supply chain approach that describes the relationships and intra-ecosystem alignments across the different stages
– Understanding where technical standards can extra value and bring benefits to the continuum of care

Panelist Bio: As the practice leader, Maria is focused on engaging and leading a global community of multi-disciplinary stakeholders to openly collaborate and develop solutions to enable trust in and validation of breakthrough technologies/applications that will enable sustainable equitable access to quality care, privacy, and protection for ALL individuals. Working with volunteer experts to develop frameworks to address significant societal challenges of security, privacy, validation, compatibility, feasibility and accessibility of digital technologies in all areas of the healthcare value chain through technology standardization.

Maria is an entrepreneur having founded various companies including DisruptiveRx™ Media, the first information company to explain viable use cases of emerging digital technologies such as blockchain/DLTs, AI, etc to address inefficiencies in the bio/pharma value chain. Maria’s professional highlights include global brand and communications director for one of the world’s largest mining investment platforms in Africa; and bringing innovative communication and information products to global markets and various industries including financial, bio/pharmaceutical, agriculture, natural resources, and telecommunications.

Maria currently holds an MBA from the Rutgers Graduate School of Business and a BA and BS from Rutgers College at Rutgers University, the State University of New Jersey.

Panelist Bio: Dr. Elizabeth White Baker is an Associate Professor of Information Systems at Virginia Commonwealth University. She completed a fellowship at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Systems Design and Management. Her research includes adoption and diffusion of technology, as well as telehealth, cybersecurity, ethics, and safety engineering in healthcare organizations. Her work has been quoted in the New York Times and published in journals such as the Journal of Strategic Information Systems, Communications of the Association for Information Systems, Information Systems Frontiers, and IEEE Transactions on Engineering Management.

Panelist Bio: Narendra Mangra is a Principal at GlobeNet LLC and provides advisory and consulting services. across industry, government, and academia. His diverse experience spans strategy development, roadmap development, spectrum management, mobile network planning and system deployments, enterprise-wide modernization, program management, and education. He is an Adjunct Professor at the George Mason University. Narendra also leads several IEEE initiatives such as the Future Networks INGR, P1950.1 smart cities architecture standards development, Public Safety Technology Initiative, and the Telehealth and Transdisciplinary Framework Industry Connections. His current interests include comprehensive transdisciplinary frameworks, 5G and future networks, digital transformation, smart communities, and related ecosystems.

Panelist Bio: Carole chairs the First IEEE Baltimore Technical Colloquium and Professional Development Conference, 2024. She is a long time IEEE member volunteer and served in leadership roles at the Section and Region levels, Women in Engineering, IEEE USA, Engineering in Medicine and Biology (EMB), and the Consumer Technology (CTSoc) societies. For many years, she chaired the EMB Standards Committee (SC) and currently is the Standards Representative to IEEE Standards Association (SA). She holds the position Member-at-large, CTSoc Blockchain SC and Vice-Chair, Metaverse SC. Carole is an Associate Editor of the IEEE Open Journal of Engineering in Medicine and Biology (OJEMB), a member of the IEEE 2621 Conformity Assessment Committee that developed the Medical Device Cybersecurity Certification program. She is active in IEEE SA Industry Connections (IC) and a member of the Neurotechnologies for Brain-Machine Interfacing (BMI) activity. The output of this activity is publication of Standards Roadmap: Neurotechnologies for Brain-Machine Interfacing (2020) and an article in OJEMB, “Standardization of Neurotechnology for Brain-Machine Interfacing: State of the Art and Recommendations” (2021). Ongoing is the Clinical Trial Technology Modernization Network IC activity.

Carole is Founder of C3-Carey Consultants, LLC, a medical devices consultancy that provides regulatory intelligence and strategy to assist regulated industry bring innovative, safe and effective medical products to market. Earlier, she worked at US FDA Medical Device Program, Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) as peer-reviewed Expert Regulatory Review Scientist. As a member of FDA’s AED (automated external defibrillator) Task Force, she made significant contributions to the AED Early Defibrillation and Public Access Program. As a Mansfield Fellow, Carole was a visiting regulatory scientist in Japan’s Ministry of Health, and the Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Agency. Post fellowship, she served as International Advisor and Director of International Staff at CDRH. She has authored several book chapters on medical device regulations.

She has a Bachelor in Electrical Engineering from Johns Hopkins University and Masters of Engineering Science with concentrations in Computer Engineering from Loyola University, Maryland.

Panel Session Synopsis: Standing out as a young professional in today’s competitive job market requires a strategic combination of skill-building, networking, and personal branding.  To differentiate yourself, young Professionals should focus on acquiring both technical and soft skills that are in high demand within their industry. The IEEE Baltimore Section presents a unique opportunity for young professionals to achieve these in the form of the First IEEE Baltimore Technical Colloquium and Professional Development Conference.  This exclusive event, to be held at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) on November 2, 2024, is a one-of-a-kind
chance to enhance your skills and network with industry leaders. The conference theme,  “Innovating Tomorrow: Navigating Emerging Technologies with Strong Leadership Skills  for Sustainable Success,” underscores the importance of technological awareness for career growth and competitiveness. Our panelists will focus on these technical skills and power skills,  such as leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability, to enhance the overall professional success of young professionals and enable them to thrive in changing work environments.

A solid online presence is essential, especially on platforms like LinkedIn. Regularly updating your profile, sharing relevant industry insights, and engaging with thought leaders enhance your visibility and position you as someone knowledgeable and proactive.  Networking is another key factor in standing out and that is why IEEE Baltimore Technical Colloquium and Professional Development Conference offers YPs an opportunity to meet industry players, network and make valuable connections, and learn from peers and mentors.  Building these relationships helps open doors to potential job opportunities and fosters a sense of community in your field.

Our panelists, well-positioned to dissect all the issues and challenges facing YP when starting careers, will be at the heart of the conversation.

• Dr. Rowena Winkler is the assistant director for graduate student career development at the UMBC Career Center. She uses her Ph.D. in communication and has 15+ years of experience in marketing and communication.
• Don Herres is an Electrical, Electronic & Embedded Product Design Engineer and product design expert with over 30 years of experience across many sectors. He holds a master’s degree in electrical engineering.
• Dr. Huguenes Jean is SWE at Google. He has more than 17 years of industrial and government work experience and a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering.

The panelists, with their wealth of experience and knowledge, will offer valuable insights and guidance that can accelerate your professional development.  By focusing on these strategies—building in-demand skills, cultivating an online presence, networking, showcasing work, and embracing feedback—young professionals can stand out in the job market, positioning
themselves for success in their chosen careers.

Panelist Bio: Mr. Ezeobi is a Ph.D. student in Electrical Engineering at the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC). My academic journey began with a B.S. in Electrical/Electronic Engineering from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nigeria 2001.  He pursued an M.S. in Science and Technology from the University of Vaasa, Finland 2015, followed by another M.S. from UMBC in 2022. He is a G-RISE (Graduate Research Training Initiative for Student Enhancement) scholar at UMBC, conducting research at the Center for Advanced Studies in Photonics Research (CASPR).  His research focuses on photonics and optics, specifically the nonlinear properties of semiconductor materials and fiber optics, using techniques such as induced grating autocorrelation (IGA) and Z-scan.

Panelist Bio: Don is the Student Activities Chair of the IEEE Baltimore Section.  He is also Director of the Baltimore Robot Challenge sponsored by the Section and Baltimore Museum of Industry.  This is an educational outreach for High School and Middle School students to build simple robots from scratch while learning skills including soldering, woodworking or 3D CAD modeling, basic wiring, artistic design, project management and report writing.

Don is an electronics design engineer doing contract work for industry and commercial projects.

Panelist Bio: Huguens Jean is a Software Engineer at Google with an extensive background in computer vision, electrical engineering, and AI. He holds a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), graduating cum laude and earning a place in the UMBC Hall of Fame as a standout NCAA Division I track and field athlete.

Huguens has worked in diverse roles, including as a research engineer at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, where he contributed to advanced imaging technologies. He also gained significant experience at several startups, such as Amethyst Technologies, where he led the development of mobile surveillance systems, and Lift Up LLC, where he directed a documentary film. His diverse startup experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective on AI applications across various domains.

At Synaptiq.ai, Huguens applied his expertise in AI-driven solutions under the guidance of his Ph.D. advisor, Tim Oates. Now at Google, Huguens continues to lead impactful projects at the intersection of AI and cloud technology, constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation.

Panelist Bio: Ashutosh Dutta is Chief 5G Strategist and APL Fellow at Johns Hopkins University’s Applied Physics Labs, USA. He serves as the director of Doctor of Engineering at Johns Hopkins University. In the past, he served as the chair of ECE department of Engineering for Professionals at JHU, Director of Technology Security at AT&T, CTO of Wireless at NIKSUN, Senior Scientist in Telcordia Research, Director of Central Research Facility at Columbia University, and Computer Engineer with TATA Motors. He has authored more than 110 technical papers, one book published by John and Wiley, and 5 book chapters, and has 31 issued patents. Ashutosh is recipient of IEEE MGA’s 2009 Leadership Award, IEEE-USA’s 2010 Professional Leadership Award, 2022 IEEE-USA George F. McClure Citation of Honor and 2022 IEEE North American Region Exceptional Service Award. Ashutosh served as Member-At-Large for IEEE Communications Society for 2020-2025 and Distinguished Lecturer from 2018-2021. He co-founded the IEEE STEM conference (ISEC) in 2011 and has served its co-chair since then. Ashutosh currently serves as the Chair for IEEE Industry Connection’s O-RAN activities and 6G. As the Founding co-chair of IEEE Future Networks he led technology roadmap, publications, standardization, testbed, education, industry engagement, conferences and workshops in the area of 5G and 6G, while keeping a focus on humanitarian needs. Ashutosh is a Distinguished Alumnus of NIT Rourkela with a BS in Electrical Engineering, MS in Computer Science from NJIT, and a Ph.D. in EE from Columbia University. Ashutosh is an IEEE Fellow and an ACM Distinguished member.

Panelist Bio: Dr. Rhonda Farrell, CEO of Global Innovation Strategies, supplies senior executive advisory and professional consulting services focused on driving value-laden and impactful change and strategic growth for organizations. Her commercial and government-oriented professional background in enterprise transformation, organizational excellence, governance, risk, policy, process improvement, cybersecurity, AI, and innovation enables her to offer a unique perspective that seamlessly blends technical expertise with a profound understanding of business dynamics.

Throughout her career, she has successfully led numerous high-stakes projects and initiatives, consistently delivering measurable results that align strategically and mission-wise with organizational goals. Her approach is rooted in a thorough needs analysis, collecting current state, co-creating an envisioned future state, co-joint identification of capability gaps and improvement opportunities, and identification of innovative people, process, and technological solutions that foster efficiency, productivity, stronger governance, and sustainable growth.

As a Baltimore-based veteran who proudly served in the US Marine Corps, she brings a disciplined, resilient, and mission-focused approach to her work. The core values instilled in her during military service — honor, courage, commitment, service, excellence, and integrity — continue to guide her professional journey. These values, coupled with strategic vision and leadership capabilities, have allowed her to navigate complex challenges and drive transformational change effectively.

Rhonda’s customers and clients have benefited significantly from my services, achieving remarkable improvements in governance, risk reduction, performance, and achievement of their strategic objectives. This is backed by a proven track record of success and a commitment to delivering exceptional value. Typically seeing 10-25X growth outcomes. Her DISC profile is DYNAMO.

She earned her D.Sc. In Cybersecurity from the University of Fairfax, J.D. In Technology from Purdue Global Law School [Formerly Concord Law School], and her MBA in Strategic Management from CSU Hayward. She is certified  in Change Management, Cybersecurity, Organizational Excellence, Quality Management and is a SAFe Agilist.

Abstract: Ever wonder what hiring managers see in those crucial first 30 seconds of reviewing your resume? Here’s your chance to find out! At Resume Rush, experienced professionals will give your resume a quick glance—just like in the real world—and provide instant, actionable feedback in just 5 minutes.

Whether you’re gearing up for a job hunt or looking to refine your resume, this is the perfect opportunity to gain expert insights on the spot. Make sure your resume stands out from the stack!

Bring your resume and leave with feedback that could make all the difference in your career.

Speaker Bio:  Neeta Basantkumar is currently an Engineering Manager at Northrop Grumman. She was previously a Process Engineering Manager at Northrop Grumman’s Advanced Technology Laboratories (ATL). Prior to that, she supported the trusted foundry as a Process Integration Engineer. She also worked at Lockheed Martin as a Research Engineer after completing her rotations as Engineering Leadership Development Program (ELDP) participant.

She served as a volunteer with IEEE WIE Forum (East) the previous years, and was the co-chair in 2017. Neeta is excited to continue supporting this forum. Her other volunteer activities include volunteering at the local Baltimore schools, and APPN (The Asian Pacific Professional Network) an inclusive Employee Resource Group (ERG). She enjoys teaching STEM to young women through hands-on learning activities.

Neeta has a professional degree from Columbia University, masters from University of Minnesota, and bachelors from Widener University all in electrical engineering. You can connect with her through LinkedIn!

Panel Session Synopsis: Technology plays a crucial role in addressing society’s most essential needs, such as the goal of providing equitable healthcare for all. Global healthcare systems, with their plurality of structures and management arrangements among several unrelated organizations with various goals, information sources, and payment models, are ill-equipped to handle the complex current environment in which their patients live.

A Transdisciplinary Framework for a continuum of care can provide a structured approach that integrates the healthcare ecosystem, networks, technologies, enablers, and governance functions for current and future considerations.

This session will address the following key concepts:
– Creating a “scalable modularity” for the ecosystem to dynamically adjust to the changing risks, requirements, and locations of care of patients and their caregivers
– Framing the continuum of care with a focus on precision, individualized care, and removing barriers to care
– Establishing the related continuum of care framework with several related ecosystem stages through a supply chain approach that describes the relationships and intra-ecosystem alignments across the different stages
– Understanding where technical standards can extra value and bring benefits to the continuum of care

Panelist Bio: Erkan Hassan, Pharm.D., FCCM is a clinician and transformational healthcare executive  with 20+ years’ experience developing innovative solutions to improve clinical outcomes, enhance provider experience and increase revenue.

As the founder of Transformational Views Consulting Group, Inc and Co-Founder of the Sepsis Program Optimization, LLC, Dr. Hassan aids health systems and providers by making telemedicine a reality as well as improving the process of difficult clinical challenges using evidence based clinical data creating and optimizing intelligent ecosystems to generate validated patient centered clinical and financial outcomes. 

He holds:

• 2 patents on acute patient deterioration
• 60 abstracts; 40 publications; 8 book chapters
• Editorial board of Telehealth and Medicine Today Journal
• Managing Partner of Virtual Care for ProNexus Advisors

You can reach Erkan at dr.erkanhassan@gmail.com

Abstract: Ever wonder what hiring managers see in those crucial first 30 seconds of reviewing your resume? Here’s your chance to find out! At Resume Rush, experienced professionals will give your resume a quick glance—just like in the real world—and provide instant, actionable feedback in just 5 minutes.

Whether you’re gearing up for a job hunt or looking to refine your resume, this is the perfect opportunity to gain expert insights on the spot. Make sure your resume stands out from the stack!

Bring your resume and leave with feedback that could make all the difference in your career.

Speaker Bio: Jeanni Nseir is currently an Electronics Engineering Manager at Northrop Grumman. She was previously Digital Technology Manager and IPT lead in digital hardware design and firmware design. Her background is in leading design, system, and test development activities for superconducting electronics development. She also worked at Lockheed Martin and has experience leading software team, created and developed sequence diagrams and state diagrams for different type of missiles.

Ms. Nseir has experience providing coaching and training, workload alignment, performance reviews and promotions.  Her experience also included recruiting, hiring and mentoring new hires.

Abstract: Ever wonder what hiring managers see in those crucial first 30 seconds of reviewing your resume? Here’s your chance to find out! At Resume Rush, experienced professionals will give your resume a quick glance—just like in the real world—and provide instant, actionable feedback in just 5 minutes.

Whether you’re gearing up for a job hunt or looking to refine your resume, this is the perfect opportunity to gain expert insights on the spot. Make sure your resume stands out from the stack!

Bring your resume and leave with feedback that could make all the difference in your career.

Speaker Bio: Mr. Hare is a licensed, professional civil engineer who has worked for the Federal government for the last nine years. Currently, he writes new job announcements, reviews résumés, conducts interviews, and makes hiring recommendations. He works with engineers, architects, and lawyers providing technical advice to promote disaster damaged public facilities being repaired or replaced in a more resilient manner. Previously, he owned a consulting engineering business for 35 years which provided building inspections and structural repair designs. He hired, evaluated and promoted engineers and administrative staff for his business. 

He received his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana and a Master’s degree in Legal Studies from the University of Baltimore, Maryland.