The Nevada Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology will hold its 17th annual awards ceremony, the NCET Dragonfly Energy Technology Awards, on May 13 to honor Northern Nevada individuals and businesses that have significantly increased the growth and stature of the technology community. was praised.
“The NCET Dragonfly Energy Awards do more than just recognize outstanding performance,” said Sarah Johns, NCET President and CEO. “Those honored tonight are building a strong, diverse, and sustainable economy that will serve Northern Nevada for decades to come. You are an inspiration.”
The University of Nevada, Reno received many awards, including five awards, including a Distinguished Technology Hall of Fame Award presented to UNR President Brian Sandoval.
“Throughout his career, President Sandoval has a proven track record of promoting economic development in Nevada,” Johns said. “From technology to manufacturing to his work educating Nevada's future workforce. NCET and Dragonfly Energy are proud to present Brian Sandoval with the Hall of Fame Award.”
The NCET Dragonfly Energy Technology Awards were held at the Reno Elks Lodge.
New Award: Robotics Innovation Company of the Year Overall Utilization Award – K-12 Robotics Center
The “Best Overall Use of Robotics Innovation Company of the Year” award recognizes companies that drive innovation, solve complex challenges and create real value across a variety of industries. We recognize and celebrate the exemplary achievements, transformative impact, and visionary leadership of companies that demonstrate outstanding use of robotics technology. application.
K-12 Robotics was named Best Overall Use of Robotics Innovation.
The University of Nevada, Reno K-12 Robotics Center is housed in the historic Southside Studios and has been operated by the university since 2019, providing a unique space for robotics and STEM education. Located across from the Innovation Center, we welcome anyone interested in learning, building, and playing with robotics. The center aims to spark young students' interest in robotics, computer science, engineering and automation, leading to future degrees and careers. The Robotics program offers fun and educational extracurricular experiences that encourage growth and connection. STEM education is essential to preparing students for the workforce and driving innovation in the 21st century.
New Award: Sustainability Leader of the Year – Pengbo Chu
Awarded to the person who, through individual or team leadership, has best devised a way to create a more sustainable future. Special consideration will be given to individuals who demonstrate industry leadership through driving sustainable growth and influence in industry trade organizations, sustainability-related legislative efforts, or other civic and community engagement. Masu.
Pengbo Chu, Nevada Gold Mining Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, leads an interdisciplinary team in the Mackay School of Geosciences and Engineering. He works with industry leaders such as Lithium Americas and American Battery Technology Company to develop environmentally friendly lithium extraction methods. His innovative mineral processing technology aims to reduce carbon emissions and environmental impact and demonstrates the potential for carbon sequestration in lithium mining. Chu is also pioneering the development of immersive VR tools to educate students about metallurgical processes such as foam flotation. Mr. Chu promotes a holistic approach to sustainable resource management through collaboration with the federal Department of Energy, the Desert Research Institute, mine operations, and other university departments.
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Pengbo Chu was awarded this year's Sustainability Leader Award.
This year's most inspiring technology company – MACOMA Environmental Technologies
The Most Inspiring Technology Company of the Year Award recognizes and celebrates the innovative capabilities, transformative impact and exemplary leadership of technology companies that have made a significant impact on the landscape within and beyond their industry. Special consideration will be given to companies that demonstrate excellence in leveraging technology to drive positive change, advance social progress, and inspire others through vision, dedication, and ingenuity. Masu.
MACOMA Environmental Technologies is a start-up company dedicated to advancing environmental sustainability through innovation and scientific research. MACOMA specializes in global research, development, and manufacturing of products that address critical environmental challenges such as indoor air quality, air pollution, and climate change. MACOMA is committed to slowing global warming by reducing greenhouse gases and protecting human health through economical reflective nanopaints and photocatalytic nanotechnology.
Best Engineer – Mick Hitchcock
Awarded to an engineer who, through individual or team leadership, has maximized the use of technology to improve the performance of their organization or the products and services it provides. Special consideration will be given to individuals who demonstrate industry leadership through participation in industry trade associations, legislative efforts related to the technology industry, or other civic and community involvement.
Mick Hitchcock has spent 40 years in the pharmaceutical industry researching, developing and commercializing approximately 25 anti-infective drugs, primarily for the treatment of viral diseases. This included his first once-daily, one-pill regimen containing three drugs (ATRIPLA) to simplify the treatment of HIV. Since moving to Reno in 2009, I have served on the boards of the following organizations: Nevada Research & Innovation Corporation, an organization that facilitates the monetization and use of UNR IP. Renogenys, a UNR-Med spinoff company (of which he is also the founder) that develops a treatment for a type of muscular dystrophy called FSHD. Biomea Fusion Inc. is a small Bay Area company developing treatments for oncology and metabolic diseases.
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Mick Hitchcock wins Technologist of the Year.
Natalie Frye joined the University of Nevada, Reno in 2007. She is a seasoned professional with nearly 20 years of strategic marketing and communications experience, primarily in the higher education field, as well as experience working with nonprofit organizations and agencies.
Natalie has served on numerous committees and held numerous leadership positions on campus and in the community. Member of the Information and Communication Technology Committee; 2019-2021: Chair of the Faculty of Management Committee; 2018-2021: Member of the Faculty of Management; 2017-2019: Early Career Academic Faculty Committee, Communications Liaison. 2016-2017: Faculty Senate, President's Department Senate. Member of the Fulbright 70th Anniversary Program Planning Committee. StoryCorps, Communications Team. Intel International Science and Technology Fair, Public Affairs Committee, Walker Basin Project, Communications Committee. Reynolds School, alumni committee member. The committee aims to have 500 members and will recruit and recognize National Meritorious Persons and Presidential Scholars. ASCENT (All Students College Educated in Nevada Today) steering committee and numerous recruitment, events, functions, and communications committees.
Since 2005, Natalie has been a member and professional partner of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and has served on multiple boards with her local Sierra Nevada chapter.
