Name: Dr Jordan Nguyen
Twitter handle: @DocJordy
What are you working on at the moment?
My two main projects right now are a new smart wheelchair that can see and think for itself to make travel safe whilst being controlled by the mind, and devices to assist in early diagnosis of disability in infants.
What would you like to be working on in the future?
I'll continue to create many more projects with more amazing, passionate people, as well as TV documentaries to show what we are truly capable of with ever-advancing technology to improve lives and improve the world we live in. I have a vision to help many more people make their own positive mark on the world, and it's something I have taken action towards and will continue to – there's so much great potential in the people around us, in the younger generations, many of whom are technological integrators, and it's our duty to guide them to realise that potential!
What was your view of science/technology/engineering/maths before you took it up?
I have been lucky enough to have been exposed to the many creations of my father throughout my life to have been able to see the positive impact the many facets of STEM [science, technology, engineering and maths] can have. It just took a while for me to discover my own path in these areas, but I'm forever finding more and more about the importance of science, technology, engineering and maths, and how they combine to provide true advancement.
Who inspired you during your studies and why?
I have always been inspired by both of my parents, to be honest. My mum's caring, social, compassionate, empathetic and artistic side have helped form so much of my own personality, and my father's technological brilliance in engineering, robotics, artificial intelligence, and biomedical engineering gave me a solid foundation for inspiration in these fields.
Of course there are a lot of cross-overs here but once I discovered the areas I wanted to really focus on, I was able to draw on these inspirations. Up until I started making friends who happened to also have disabilities, hearing stories and learning all about this whole world I hadn't previously been exposed to, I lacked drive and motivation. However, some inspiring individuals in particular left me wanting to make sure I would do what I could to help create more inclusion in our society, and much of what I work on to achieve this really embodies the importance and impact of STEM.
Who inspires you now and why?
The same people who inspired me before, as well as all the people I meet almost daily, who I can see who share these values and want to make a positive difference, which is why I want to do what I can to help them achieve it.
Name three of the big issue you think need to be solved (by science or technology)?
- An inclusive society (disability is one of many aspects of this)
- Environmental impact humans have on the Earth; how can we ensure we live sustainably for future generations
- Support to developing nations to combat many problems like famine and disease, ultimately aiming to allow them to support themselves
What advice would you give to the younger you?
Discover what you're passionate about, find purposeful goals to aim for, what will drive and motivate you, don't wait for it to find you.
How do you think Australian society views people in STEM careers?
STEM careers tend to fall into a stereotype that you have to be super nerdy / brainy / geeky (none of which are a bad thing nor do I mind if people think these describe me) – but I do feel these perceptions have been starting to change in recent times.
How do you think we could change that perception?
I think it's becoming more popular and people are starting to realise you don't have to fit a certain stereotype to find passion and pursue these types of careers. Really it's all about awareness and exposure – get the exciting stories and their impact out there to the people and let them see for themselves how amazing careers in STEM can be and why they are so important to our own advancements. We have the opportunities available to love what we do, be challenged, take action on the things we believe need to change, and create the future ourselves.
What are your passions outside of your profession?
Most of my weeks I pack in socialising, partying (love the dance floors with mates), daily exercise and gym, tennis comps and a number of tournaments a year, and just generally learning new things.
What's one assumption people make about you?
I still get carded in bars sometimes. Haha! Think you can guess the assumption but I'm not complaining about it either!
Meet the other STEM education role models:
Find more STEM resources at: google.com.au/startwithcode
