Dean Kamen

Dean Kamen is arguably most famous for inventing the Segway PT, a self-balancing personal transporter that was unveiled to the public in 2001. Prior to the Segway, he also invented the iBOT, a revolutionary self-balancing mobility wheelchair capable of climbing stairs. Both devices utilized innovative, gyroscopic dynamic stabilization technology.

Kamen founded FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) in 1989 to inspire young people's interest in science and engineering careers. He realized that society heavily idolizes athletes and celebrities, while scientists and engineers are rarely celebrated by teenagers. The organization now hosts massive global robotics competitions reaching hundreds of thousands of students annually.

Yes, while still an undergraduate, Kamen invented the first wearable infusion pump, which was initially used for delivering chemotherapy and insulin. His company, AutoSyringe, produced the device, revolutionizing treatment for diabetic patients by allowing continuous, portable delivery. He sold AutoSyringe to Baxter International in 1982, which funded his future research.

Kamen lives and works on his own private island, which he named North Dumpling, off the coast of Connecticut. He jokingly refers to it as an independent nation and even has its own constitution, flag, and currency. The island serves as a testing ground for his renewable energy and clean water projects, including his Slingshot vapor compression distiller.