Mike Philpott

Mike Philpott is a distinguished professional with extensive experience in academia, research, and industry. He currently serves as the Chief Scientist and Co-founder of aPriori Technologies, a company that provides digital manufacturing simulation software.14

Academic Background

Dr. Philpott has a strong academic foundation:

• Ph.D. in Manufacturing from Cranfield Institute of Technology, UK (1987)
• M.Sc. in ME (Design) from Cranfield Institute of Technology, UK (1980)
• H.N.D. in ME from Bristol Polytechnic, UK (1977)23

Academic Career

Dr. Philpott has had a notable academic career at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign:

• Associate Professor Emeritus, Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering (2012-present)
• Associate Professor (1996-2012)
• Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering (1990-1996)3

He has also held academic positions at other institutions, including:

• Director of Integration Technology at Cranfield Institute of Technology, UK (1989-1990)
• Visiting Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (1988-1989)
• Lecturer at Cranfield University, Bedford, UK (1986-1990)3

Industry Experience

Dr. Philpott's industry experience is extensive:

• Chief Scientist at aPriori Technologies (2005-present)
• Chief Technology Officer at FBC Systems (2003-2005)
• Various engineering roles at companies such as British Leyland Technology, Molins Ltd., and the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority23

Research and Innovations

Dr. Philpott's research has focused on several key areas:

• Feature-based costing software
• Micro-miniature systems
• Design for manufacture and assembly
• Rapid prototyping and layered manufacturing
• Computer integrated manufacture (CIM)
• Robotics and automation23

His work has led to significant innovations, including the development of an Integrated Mesoscopic Cooler Circuit (IMCC) and a mesoscale thermomechanical (MTM) water purification system.23

Achievements and Recognition

Dr. Philpott has received numerous accolades for his work:

• Winner of the Harvard Business Plan Competition (2003)
• Finalist in the Global Business Plan Competition in Singapore (2003)
• Recipient of the Stanley H. Pierce Award from the College of Engineering, UIUC (1995)
• Senior Fulbright Scholarship (1988)23

His research has also attracted significant venture capital funding, including $4.5 million from Bain Capital and Sigma Partners in 2004, with additional funding in subsequent years.23