Futurist inspires our scientists

Dr Catherine Ball PhD is a scientific futurist, tech influencer, author, champion of diversity, drone expert, creative thinker and Associate Professor within the School of Engineering at the Australian National University.

A sought-after voice across the start-up, futurist and tech world, Catherine works globally across a wide range of projects from creating documentaries and world leading conferences and events, to advising on the use of novel approaches (e.g. drones) across environmental and humanitarian projects. Catherine is a proponent of community engagement with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and likes to demystify emerging tech.

Students were invited to attend an online presentation with Dr Ball during 2021's extended lockdown. Her highly engaging presentation included good advice for women in STEM. School Captain Harper Gracie said, “Catherine’s projects are ground-breaking and interesting. After hearing Catherine speak, I feel excited about our future, possible careers, and opportunities in STEM.”