Topic: Engineering for Global Development
Profile of the Speaker:
Dr. Kendra Sharp is the Dean of the School of Engineering at Santa Clara University, USA, and the former Head of the Office of International Science and Engineering at the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). Her expertise lies in thermal-fluid sciences and engineering solutions for global development, with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and community-engaged engineering.
Session Summary:
Dr. Kendra Sharp began the session with an overview of Santa Clara University, highlighting its academic strengths, global outlook, and emphasis on socially impactful engineering education. She then introduced students to her technical expertise in thermal-fluid science and engineering for global development, emphasizing how engineering solutions can address real-world challenges in underserved communities.
A key part of the lecture focused on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established for the period 2015–2030, outlining the 17 global goals aimed at transforming the world through sustainable, inclusive, and resilient development. Dr. Sharp explained how engineers play a critical role in achieving these goals through innovation and applied research.
She presented a detailed case study on the InStove Water Purifier System, where her team assessed clean water solutions using traditional fire-based boiling methods versus the InStove purifier. The results of extensive testing highlighted improvements in fuel efficiency, capacity, and temperature control, with the purified water meeting both USEPA and WHO quality standards. This case demonstrated how engineering design can directly improve public health outcomes.
Dr. Sharp also discussed emerging areas such as Responsible Artificial Intelligence and Santa Clara University’s Master’s program in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI). She emphasized the program’s mission to foster interdisciplinary research, promote ethical AI education, and cultivate global partnerships to ensure safe and responsible AI advancements.
Further technical examples included coil testing methodologies and the application of agricultural drone technology, illustrated through a case study at Raitong Organic Farm in Thailand, a family-run agricultural enterprise. The use of drones showcased how engineering and data-driven tools can enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Dr. Sharp introduced students to Santa Clara University’s Frugal Innovation Hub, where graduate students work in teams of 8–10 members on real-life projects with industry and community clients. She elaborated on impactful projects such as:
The session also highlighted the role of the Miller Center for Social Entrepreneurship at Santa Clara University’s Business School, which supports global initiatives such as Cartier Women’s Initiative, empowering women entrepreneurs worldwide, and Onergy Solar (India), which provides sustainable solar energy solutions.
The lecture concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where students actively interacted with Dr. Sharp, gaining insights into global engineering careers, interdisciplinary collaboration, and opportunities for innovation-driven impact.
