Dr. Yimesker Yihun is the Ford Company Distinguished Professor in Mechanical Engineering at NCAT. He earned his Ph.D. in Engineering and Applied Science from Idaho State University in 2014 and a masters degree in Mechanical Engineering Design from IIT Bombay, India in 2007. Previously a tenured associate professor at Wichita State University, His research focuses on mechanism synthesis, robot-based rehabilitation, control systems, and human-machine interaction. His research has been funded by organizations such as NSF, NASA, and Kansas Board of Regents. He has co-authored over 65 peer-reviewed articles and conference papers. Dr. Yihun also conducts educational research to improve instructional methods, promote experiential learning, self-directed learning, and engineering research. Dr. Yihun is the recipient of the Wichita State University College of Engineering Wallace 2020 Excellence in Teaching Award.