Sridhar Kota

Sridhar Kota has a diverse work experience spanning over several decades.

Sridhar started their career at the University of Michigan College of Engineering in 1987, where they held the position of Herrick Professor of Engineering and Professor of Mechanical Engineering. During their tenure, they were involved in various research and teaching activities and had access to a vast network of alumni.

In 2001, Sridhar founded FlexSys, Inc., with a focus on engineering shape-changing aircraft wings. Through collaborations with the Air Force Research Laboratory and NASA, their company successfully flight tested the world's first modern aircraft with shape-changing wings. This innovation aimed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce noise in the aviation industry.

From 2009 to 2012, Sridhar served as the Assistant Director for Advanced Manufacturing in the Office of Science and Technology Policy within the Executive Office of the President. In this role, they played a key part in promoting trade interests and communicating the President's message to the American people.

In 2015, Sridhar became the Executive Director of MForesight, a federally funded national consortium focused on enhancing U.S. manufacturing competitiveness. This position allowed him to contribute to the growth and development of the manufacturing sector in the country.

Most recently, in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Sridhar founded Inspire Rx LLC in 2020. Together with their daughter, they co-invented a negative pressure helmet called "PPE for Patients" that provides non-invasive treatment for Covid-19 patients while protecting healthcare workers.

Overall, Sridhar Kota's work experience demonstrates their expertise in engineering, manufacturing, and innovation, as well as their commitment to addressing real-world challenges.

Sridhar Kota has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) from Osmania University. Sridhar also earned a Master's degree in Materials Engineering from the University of Mississippi. In addition, they hold a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME) from the University of Minnesota. Furthermore, they have attained a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mechanical Engineering, also from the University of Minnesota.