Brent van de Walker

Background

About Brent van de Walker

I am currently finishing my graduate studies at the University of Guelph in the Collaborative Specialization in Artificial Intelligence program. My interest in robotics and artificial intelligence began in the fourth year of my undergraduate studies when I took a robotics course. This interest has been magnified through the completion of multiple graduate-level AI courses and simulation work done for my thesis. I am also very interested in the functionality, efficiency, and economics of many commonly used mechanisms in the world today, and how they can be improved. This interest was constantly stimulated through various courses I have taken, such as Engineering Mechanics, and Engineering Economics, and Optimization Techniques. I have also developed excellent leadership skills through the execution of multiple group projects in Engineering Design. Most notably, in Design 4, where my group and I successfully designed a small robot which was capable of pouring and mixing multiple drinks in a time which was competitive with a bartender. My foundation of engineering skills is reinforced by an exceptionally strong mathematical aptitude. This expertise has been rigorously tested through courses such as Calculus and Differential Equations, and most notably in my previous summer job as an Undergraduate Research Assistant studying Fractional Calculus, where my supervisor and I published a paper together in a Springer Journal. This position has solidified my understanding of ordinary calculus, and has greatly improved my written and verbal communication skills by conveying findings to my supervisor through written notes and meetings. My interest in mathematics and engineering-related skills is unbounded, and I am excited to develop these skills in future employment opportunities.