Date/Time: Feb 6, 2026, Friday, 3:00 - 4:30 pm, ET

Location: MSEE 112

Zoom Livestream: https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/j/95468302127

Presenter: Kingsley Fregene, Director of Technology Integration, Lockheed Martin

Title: From Air to Sea: Unconventional Autonomy and the Art of Collaboration

Abstract: This seminar bridges foundational concepts in autonomous systems with their critical applications in aerial and maritime domains. I will first detail the design and deployment of unconventional and hybrid convertible vehicles, highlighting advancements capable of achieving carbon neutrality. The discussion then shifts to the strategic framework required to foster such innovation. Drawing on extensive experience in industry-academia partnerships, I will share the essential ingredients for effective alliances. This includes a breakdown of the collaboration lifecycle, offering actionable steps for academic researchers to align with industry and maximize the likelihood of transitioning research into real-world applications. Case studies will be used throughout to illustrate both technical breakthroughs and successful partnership models.

Bio: Dr. Kingsley Fregene is an IEEE Fellow and the Director of Technology Integration at Lockheed Martin, where he oversees a strategic portfolio of research and technology development. With a career spanning leadership roles at both Lockheed Martin and Honeywell, he focuses on developing and fielding robotic and intelligent systems designed to save lives and mitigate human risk. A recognized leader in the control systems community, Dr. Fregene serves on the IEEE Control Systems Society Board of Governors and has held editorial roles with both the IEEE Control Systems and Robotics & Automation Societies. He was the recipient of the 2021 American Automatic Control Council’s Control Engineering Practice Award. Beyond his technical and strategic contributions, he is committed to inspiring future engineers, having been featured in National Geographic and children’s books such as Tiny Robots and Mimic-Makers. He holds a Ph.D. and M.A.Sc. in Electrical & Computer Engineering from the University of Waterloo, Canada, and a B.Eng. with first-class honors from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria.