Shane Farritor

Advancing the state of knowledge in mechanical engineering, Dr. Shane Farritor is a distinguished David B. and Nancy K. Lederer Professor of Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Since joining the Department of Mechanical Engineering faculty in 1998, Dr. Farritor has been instrumental in fostering innovation and excellence in engineering education and research. His career is marked by a rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped his contributions to the field. Before his tenure at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Dr. Farritor honed his expertise at the Field and Space Robotics Laboratory at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His work at the Unmanned Vehicle Lab at the C.S. Draper Laboratories further solidified his reputation as a pioneer in robotics and unmanned systems. His academic journey also includes significant research stints at the Kennedy Space Center, Goddard Space Flight Center, and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, where he engaged in cutting-edge projects that pushed the boundaries of space exploration and robotics. Dr. Farritor's professional affiliations reflect his commitment to advancing mechanical engineering and aerospace technologies. As a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), he actively contributes to the development of industry standards and practices. His role on the AIAA Robotics Technical Committee underscores his influence in shaping the future of robotics in aerospace applications. In addition to his academic and professional endeavors, Dr. Farritor is an entrepreneur at heart. He is the founder of two innovative start-up companies, Virtual Incision and MRail, where he holds a financial interest. These ventures are a testament to his ability to translate academic research into practical solutions that address real-world challenges. His entrepreneurial spirit is driven by a desire to make a tangible impact on society through technological advancements. Dr. Farritor's dedication to education, research, and entrepreneurship has earned him recognition as a leader in his field. His work continues to inspire students and colleagues alike, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Through his efforts, Dr. Farritor is not only advancing the state of knowledge in mechanical engineering but also paving the way for future generations of engineers and innovators.