INTERNATIONAL BEST INNOVATION AWARD, for Paper CASE STUDIES IN ROV DEVELOPMENT: INNOVATIONS IN UNDERWATER EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGY
Priyanka Das is a dynamic and driven Controls Engineer with a robust background in robotics, automation, and electrical systems. Currently contributing to advanced manufacturing innovation at Ford Motor Company, she brings hands-on experience in designing and validating complex control architectures across global powertrain operations. Prior to this, she honed her expertise at Tesla Inc., where she developed and commissioned automation systems for battery and inverter manufacturing lines, directly impacting production efficiency for several flagship electric vehicle models. Priyanka holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in Robotics from the University of Cincinnati, and a Bachelor of Technology in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Vellore Institute of Technology, India. Her academic pursuits are complemented by a strong portfolio of technical projects and publications in the fields of autonomous navigation, sensor fusion, and localization in GPS-denied environments. Beyond her engineering career, Priyanka is actively involved in mentoring and STEM advocacy. She serves as a judge for the NASA Space Houston Conrad Challenge and the Global Recognition Awards and is a peer reviewer for numerous international journals. She has also delivered keynote speeches at AI and data science conferences. She is a proud member of several professional organizations, including IEEE Women in Engineering, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), and the Society of Women Engineers. Priyanka’s commitment to community service is evident in her ongoing volunteer work with disaster relief programs, animal care clinics, and STEM outreach events. With a rare blend of technical prowess, leadership, and community engagem