Create Your Own "Circle of Innovation"

We have heard of the legend of the lone genius inventor, closeted away and doing brilliant things on his/her own. It is far easier to to achieve innovative results, if you get support, inspiration and help from others.

At RPI, my "Circle of Innovation" goes to the very top and includes President Shirley Ann Jackson. She has made innovation a key goal of the Rensselaer Plan. And she takes every opportunity to "celebrate innovation " of our students and faculty. Key to innovation in any organization, is support from the top leadership.

My circle at RPI, started in 1990, when I met Gary Gabriele. We talked for several hours and he invited me to speak to his class. That invitation started me on my second career teaching design and problem solving. Also included are key members of the administration; Charles Carletta, John Kolb, Alan Cramb, Dick Smith, Mark Steiner, Tim Wei, Rob Chernow, Vice Provost for Entrepreneurship and Larry Kagan, who has inspired me by his creativity and invention of "shadow art".

It also includes people outside of the campus community. Phil Weilerstein, Director of NCIIA, has played a major role by providing encouragement and key funding for courses and Advanced E-Team grants that have made it possible for students to turn their ideas into reality. NCIIA is funded by The Lemelson Foundation. Many thanks to Dorothy Lemelson, who with her late husband Jerry, had the vision and belief that students could work in teams and create products and new ventures that would make the world a better place.

IDEO and particularly Dave Blakely, has been a constant supporter, always willing to offer ideas and encouragement. And friends and former colleagues at COBE Laboratory, Bob Collins and Ted Dale, sent me seed money to support the start of Inventor's Studio.

But nothing would be possible without the outstanding students at RPI. They are the most important part of my circle of innovation. Who is in your Circle of Innovation?