Celebrating Innovation: Meet the Latest Honorees of AutoCAD 35 Under 35
The AutoCAD 35 Under 35 initiative continues to spotlight groundbreaking young designers making significant contributions to their fields. With five new innovators added to the prestigious list, we are thrilled to introduce individuals from diverse backgrounds, including theatrical design, sustainable technology, artistic expression, and engineering. Let’s dive into their remarkable stories.
Josh “Fritz” Friedensohn: A Technical Designer Revolutionizing Temporary Architecture
At 29, Josh “Fritz” Friedensohn stands out as a technical designer at Do LaB in the USA, where his work merges artistry with engineering. Fritz’s journey began while pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree at Boston University, where he discovered the potential of AutoCAD for designing theatrical productions. His talents blossomed as he co-founded the Vagabond Theatre Group, crafting detailed designs for theatrical performances.
After earning a Master of Fine Arts in Technical Direction from the California Institute of the Arts, Fritz transitioned to 3D AutoCAD. Today, he leverages the software to create intricate installations for festivals that serve as stages, shade structures, and workshop spaces. His work exemplifies a sophisticated interplay of sculpture and architecture, showcasing the adaptability of AutoCAD in real-world projects.
Benjamin Pratt: Minimalist Painter Utilizing Technology
Benjamin Pratt, at 31, is a professional minimalist painter based in Sioux City, Iowa. His artistic practice is rooted in a strong foundation of both hand drafting and AutoCAD expertise. Benjamin creatively uses AutoCAD as a preliminary sketchbook, enabling him to meticulously plan his technical yet simplified compositions.
His unique approach allows for rapid image stylization, thereby maximizing his time for the actual painting process. This innovative use of AutoCAD has transformed his artistic workflow, underscoring how technology can elevate traditional art practices.
Yayun Liu: Championing Energy Efficiency in Data Centers
Yayun Liu, 27, excels as the Director of Technical Support at Chunrong Energy Conservation Technology in China. His mission focuses on enhancing energy efficiency in one of the fastest-growing sectors: data centers. With data centers accounting for approximately 2% of global power consumption, his work is critical in addressing sustainability challenges.
Leveraging AutoCAD, Yayun designs systems to improve cooling processes in major data centers, collaborating with giants like China Unicom and Alibaba Group. His efforts are pivotal in developing energy-efficient solutions that significantly reduce power usage, making a tangible impact on the environment.
Alex Anderson: Groundbreaking Eyewear Designer
Alex Anderson, also 29, is the founder of Maho Shades in the USA, where she combines her background in interior design with innovative eyewear solutions. Her journey began at the University of Alabama, where she gained proficiency in AutoCAD, applying those skills to create functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces as well as unique furniture designs.
Today, Alex applies her architectural influences and creative insights from her Gulf Coast upbringing to craft eyewear that is both stylish and functional. Expanding her expertise in AutoCAD, she is developing a custom, mass-manufactured eyewear line that promises to redefine optical fashion.
Hendrik Tómasson: Electrical Engineer Advancing Industrial Automation
At 31, Hendrik Tómasson is making strides in the engineering landscape as an electrical engineer with EFLA Consulting Engineers in Iceland. His fascination with robotics and programming led him to acquire a B.Sc. in Mechatronics and an M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering from Reykjavík University.
Utilizing AutoCAD, Hendrik excels in the field of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming, where he assists in planning and managing workflows, cables, and equipment layouts. His impressive portfolio includes projects across various industries, from power plants in Saudi Arabia to oil platform simulators in Norway, showcasing the global relevance of his work.
FAQs
1. What is the AutoCAD 35 Under 35 initiative?
The AutoCAD 35 Under 35 initiative celebrates young innovators across diverse fields who demonstrate exceptional skill and creativity with AutoCAD. The program aims to recognize their contributions to various industries and inspire future generations.
2. How are honorees selected for the list?
Candidates for the AutoCAD 35 Under 35 list are chosen based on their innovative use of AutoCAD, their impact within their respective fields, and their potential for future contributions.
3. What notable projects have past honorees worked on?
Past honorees of the AutoCAD 35 Under 35 list have been involved in various projects, including sustainable architecture, artistic design for festivals, technological innovations in energy efficiency, and advancements in engineering practices across multiple industries.