Renowned Inventor Dean Kamen to Deliver Keynote at National Instruments NIWeek 2006

Since 1995, engineers, scientists and educators worldwide have gathered at NIWeek to learn about cost-efficient, flexible technologies for creating advanced test, control and design solutions. NIWeek 2006 begins Aug. 8 for three full days of interactive technical sessions, summits and hands on-workshops. Readers can register at www.ni.com/niweek.

“It is an honour to welcome Dean Kamen as the guest keynote speaker at NIWeek 2006,” said Ray Almgren, Vice President of Academic Relations at National Instruments. “As an inventor, entrepreneur and tireless advocate for science and technology, Kamen has changed the landscape of technology and education. Through his organisation FIRST, Kamen has transformed the way our society thinks about math and science and has inspired thousands of young adults to pursue careers in science, technology and engineering.”

Scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on Aug. 10, at the Austin Convention Center, the keynote examines the need for scientists and engineers to play a more central, visible and celebrated role in society today, given challenges such as infectious disease and water scarcity. Kamen also will talk about his award-winning inventions and commitment to FIRST, the nonprofit organisation he founded to inspire young people’s interest and participation in education and careers in science and technology. National Instruments is an international sponsor of FIRST LEGO® League (FLL), an international program for more than 62,000 children ages 9 to 14 that combines a hands-on, interactive robotics program with a sports-like atmosphere, and an official supplier to the FIRST Robotics Competition for high school students.

Kamen’s contributions to the fields of science, engineering and education are widely recognised. Last year, Kamen was inducted in the National Inventors Hall of Fame. In 2002, he won the Lemelson-MIT Prize for Invention and Innovation and in 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded Kamen the National Medal of Technology for inventions that advanced medical care worldwide and for his imaginative and innovative efforts to generate excitement around science and technology.

Kamen has more than 150 U.S. and foreign patents, including several for life-saving and life-changing medical devices. Kamen’s inventions include the first wearable infusion pump, the first portable insulin pump for diabetics, a shoebox-sized dialysis machine, a revolutionary wheelchair that climbs stairs and can rise to an “eye-level” position and a portable water purification system that makes contaminated water drinkable in areas where fresh water is not available.

Accomplished inventor Dean Kamen founded FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) in 1989 to inspire an appreciation of science and technology in young people. Based in Manchester, NH, FIRST designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology and engineering. With the support of many of the world’s most well-known companies, the non-profit organization hosts the FIRST Robotics Competition for high school students and the FIRST LEGO League for children 9 to 14 years old. Readers can visit www.usfirst.org learn more about FIRST.