Bradley Hennessie (NextStep Robotics)
Overview
Bradley Hennessie is a co-founder and CEO of NextStep Robotics, a Maryland-based company specializing in developing rehabilitation technologies for neurological conditions, particularly foot drop resulting from stroke. Known for its innovative approach, NextStep Robotics has created AMBLE, an ankle robotic device designed to assist in walking and rehabilitation. Over the years, Hennessie's work has attracted significant attention and funding, making NextStep a notable player in medical technology aimed at improving mobility and quality of life for patients.
Recent Developments
- November 2024: TEDCO invested $200,000 in NextStep Robotics to advance its foot drop solutions (Source: TEDCO). The funding supports the development and market introduction of the AMBLE device.
- May 2024: NextStep Robotics won the Pitch Dingman Competition's Grand Prize, securing $20,000. This recognizes their advancements in creating robotic solutions for stroke rehabilitation (Source: The Diamondback).
- April 2024: The company announced a strategic move to the University of Maryland BioPark, enhancing its manufacturing and research capabilities (Source: Technical.ly).
- January 2024: NextStep Robotics faced testing for FDA registration of the AMBLE device as a Class II exempt exercise device, aiming for a soft market launch (Source: Technical.ly).
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bradley Hennessie |
| Born | Not publicly available |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | CEO and Co-founder of NextStep Robotics |
| Known For | Founding NextStep Robotics and developing the AMBLE device |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Education | Bachelors in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from Towson University; Masters in Health Care Administration/Management and an MBA from UMUC |
Early Life and Education
Bradley Hennessie began his academic journey at Towson University, earning a degree in Kinesiology and Exercise Science. His educational aspirations were furthered through a Masters in Health Care Administration and Business Administration from the University of Maryland Global Campus. Early career experiences, including an internship at the Maryland Exercise and Robotics Center of Excellence (MERCE), were pivotal. Under the mentorship of Rich Macko, a collaborator, and innovator in neurological rehabilitation, Hennessie was inspired to explore robotics' potential to assist patients with mobility challenges.
Career and Notable Achievements
- 2017: Founded NextStep Robotics, focusing on creating robotic therapy solutions for neurological rehabilitation.
- 2019: NextStep Robotics gained recognition for AMBLE, revolutionizing gait training for individuals with foot drop (Source: NIH Portfolio).
- 2024: Among its accolades, NextStep Robotics secured substantial funding and was awarded numerous state-level recognitions, highlighting the impactful work in medical robotics (Source: Technical.ly).
Current Work and Impact
Bradley Hennessie continues his role as CEO, steering NextStep Robotics toward becoming a leader in rehabilitation technology. Under his leadership, NextStep is working to finalize clinical trials for AMBLE, aiming to standardize its use in physical therapy for stroke-induced foot drop. The company's advancements could significantly reduce reliance on traditional orthotics, providing a more dynamic and engaging rehabilitation experience for patients.
Next Step Robotics
As part of its broader mission, NextStep Robotics seeks to leverage robotics to enhance patient care in neurological rehabilitation settings. The company focuses on integrating state-of-the-art technologies to ensure effective treatment, thereby improving the lives of patients with mobility deficits (Source: LinkedIn).
Robotic Foot Drop
The AMBLE device, designed to address foot drop in stroke patients, uses robotics to provide personalized therapy, aiming to reintegrate patients into daily activities without the need for cumbersome orthotics. This innovation represents a significant departure from traditional, labor-intensive therapies, offering a modern, effective solution for neurological rehabilitation (Source: NextStep Robotics).
Conclusion
Bradley Hennessie's leadership in the development of cutting-edge rehabilitation technologies has positioned NextStep Robotics as a prominent player in the field. The company's work on the AMBLE device is set to redefine treatment options for those suffering from neurological conditions like foot drop. As the landscape of medical robotics continues to evolve, Hennessie's contributions could shape future innovations, providing hope and improving quality of life for individuals worldwide.