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Celebrating Innovation: Recognition of Excellence at the AI NEXTGEN America Awards

On October 10, 2026, five esteemed colleagues from UL Research Institutes were honored at the AI NEXTGEN America Futurist Awards ceremony, held at the Baltimore Convention Center during the AI NEXTGEN America Conference. This prestigious recognition is awarded to individuals showing exceptional achievement and leadership in fostering innovation, education, and the future of work. The ceremony underscored the essence of innovation and the importance of emerging technologies in enhancing safety and public welfare.

The awardees represent a diverse breadth of disciplines within UL Research Institutes, showcasing the organization's commitment to safety science and its applications across various sectors. Among the prominent recipients were Becki Rowan White, who earned the Educator of the Future Award, Migo Szeman Ng, who received the Energy Pioneer Award, and others who paved the way for advancements in research education, energy safety, and health technology.

Becki Rowan White, from the Institute for Research Experiences and Education, was recognized for her exceptional leadership in research education and workforce development, establishing key initiatives that bridge the gap between research and real-world application. Her efforts have significantly influenced the way future scientists and engineers are educated, preparing them to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s workforce.

Similarly, Migo Szeman Ng, Ph.D., representing the Electrochemical Safety Research Institute, was acknowledged with the Energy Pioneer Award for his groundbreaking work in enhancing safety protocols surrounding electrochemical and energy storage systems. His contributions are vital as society navigates the increasing reliance on sustainable energy sources, ensuring that advancements in energy technology do not compromise safety.

Other notable awardees include Justin Finesilver and Asra Hassan, Ph.D., both recognized as Technology Rising Stars for their innovative contributions stemming from the Institute for Research Experiences and the Materials Discovery Research Institute, respectively. Their pioneering approaches to technology are instrumental in redefining industry standards and inspiring future research pathways.

Dr. Qian Zhang, from the Chemical Insights Research Institute, received the Healthcare Technology Leader Award, underlining his commitment to leveraging chemical insights for improving healthcare technology. Combined, these remarkable individuals reflect a shared vision of safety, educational excellence, and technological advancement.

Chris Cramer, Ph.D., the executive vice president and chief research officer at UL Research Institutes, praised the recipients, stating, "These five colleagues reflect the best of UL Research Institutes — curious, rigorous, and committed to work that helps make people safer." This sentiment showcases the organization’s ongoing mission to merge research with practical applications that secure the safety of people and communities.

The AI NEXTGEN America Conference itself is a pivotal event that assembles leaders, innovators, and educators. It serves as a platform for translating technological advancement into tangible benefits for individuals and industries alike, with a strong focus on workforce development and education in technology fields.

UL Research Institutes has a long history dating back to 1894, dedicated to promoting public safety through meticulously conducted research that aligns scientific insight with community standards, policies, and practices. The organization remains at the forefront of safety science, driving impactful research in various fields such as fire safety, chemical safety, and materials discovery, among others.

As we celebrate the achievements of these five awardees, it becomes evident that their contributions not only enhance the reputation of UL Research Institutes but also set a benchmark for excellence in research and innovation. Their journey signifies a promising future where technology works in harmony with safety, paving the way for the next generation of researchers and innovators who will shape tomorrow’s world.