OUR BOARD

Entrepreneurship Instructor

Dr. Jeffrey Shepard has more than 25 years in small business startups and has been involved in over a dozen companies. He is a university professor, published author, and international consultant. 

Currently, his focus is on building companies in the software space where he is an investor and managing partner in several firms. He is the Founder and Chairman of venture-funded MedaCheck LLC the company he founded in 2012 focusing on building next-generation solutions in the healthcare space and assisting third-party device manufacturers. 

Dr. Shepard holds a B.S. Degree in Organizational Business from Roberts Wesleyan University in Chili, NY. He holds an MBA from Medaille University in Buffalo, NY & a Master of Legal Studies from the Santa Barbara and Ventura Colleges of Law. He has a Ph.D. in interdisciplinary studies from the Union Institute and University in Cincinnati, Ohio. Currently, he serves as a part-time Professor at Capella University teaching in the PhD program and is an adjunct professor for the University of Arizona Global Campus where he teaches Legal Studies & Entrepreneurship at the Forbes School of Business and Technology MBA program. 

Entrepreneurship Instructor

 Astha is a scientist entrepreneur and currently the Founder/CEO of Phylactics LLC, a biomedical startup that works closely with federal agencies such as DOD and NIH in developing healthcare technologies and AI integration for improved healthcare. She has 20 + years of R&D experience in developing biomedical technologies with several patents and publications. She is passionate about technology commercialization, sustainability, science communication, and mentoring women in STEM research and entrepreneurship. 

She has taught New venture Development, Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Regulatory and Quality compliance for Biomedical technologies as guest lecturer, and in several bootcamps and mentored startups through accelerators. Apart from a tech entrepreneur, she is a full-time mother of two and enjoys reading and travelling. 

Coding Instructor

Mr. Brenner is a Professor at Florida Tech. He has specialized in maker education and on how to automate tissue engineering.  He is building a bioreactor array with the full complement of traditional chemical engineering sensors, but also a cytokine sensor for detecting the inflammatory response of growing tissues when exposed to a variety of inputs. 

Dr. Brenner's maker education initiative and prior nanotechnology experience is being converted into an electronic textbook for the Kern Entrepreneurial Engineering Network (KEEN). 

Learn Arduino coding with Professor Brenner.

STEM Instructor

With a fervent dedication to innovation and a solid background in Applied Physics, Divya emerges as a passionate Data and AI Consultant, pioneering groundbreaking solutions in Biomedical Optics Engineering R&D.

Her expertise extends across Healthcare, MedTech, and related sectors, delivering trailblazing solutions that redefine industry standards. Divya's commitment to continuous learning places her at the forefront of technology, equipped with a unique skill set encompassing Prompt Writing, Data Analysis, and Artificial Intelligence.

She finds problem-solving not just rewarding but immensely enjoyable!

STEM Instructor

  Graham's academic pursuits, from Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering at Clemson University to an Associate of Science at York Technical College, demonstrates his love for science. He has more than five years of experience in research-oriented roles and has published several papers, applying automated biochemistry to behavioral neuroscience. Armed with diverse skills encompassing teaching, laboratory expertise and writing, he continuously seeks to innovate and explore uncharted territories. He takes great pleasure in teaching and has the ability to establish connections between almost all STEM subjects.

STEM Instructor

 Sebastian is a highly skilled professional proficient in various CAD programs, mathematics, digital design, introductory machining, and 3D printing. He holds degrees from the Associate in Engineering & Associate in Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology programs, graduating with high honors. Sebastian's achievements include placing in the top 3 in the NCMATYC mathematics competition as part of team CPCC during his time in the A.E. program. Committed to community service, he volunteers for Crisis Assistance Ministry and Room in the Inn at Urban Ministry Center. With a solid academic foundation and hands-on experience, Sebastian brings a unique blend of technical expertise, analytical problem-solving skills, and a dedication to education and learning.