Robert Peckyno

Robert (Bob) Peckyno is the Communication Specialist for the Wireless Inclusive Technology RERC and the Smart Tech for Paralysis Hubs within the Rehabilitation Science and Technology (RST) Department at the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to working at Pitt, Robert was most recently an Instructor and the Public Information Representative for the School of History, Philosophy, and Religion at Oregon State University. (OSU)

Robert has a diverse background beginning with an undergraduate degree in Recording Industry Management and Mass Communications from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) where he worked to create and promote the careers of country megastars Garth Brooks, Tricia Yearwood, and many others.   He has two Master's degrees: One from the University of North Dakota (UND) where his research explored communication protocols and challenges related to the asteroid hazard and another from OSU where he worked on the NASA/ESA Cassini mission radar analysis team. As an instructor at OSU, he developed the first ever university course focused on the untold women's history of outer space.

Current Projects:

Wireless Inclusive Technology RERC
the Smart Tech for Paralysis Hub
 

Fun Tech Fact Questions & Answers:

Q: Mainstream tech device you can’t live without? Why?

Specifically the GPS / mapping functions on my smart phone. I am prone to "advanced alternative exploration" which is a nice way of saying getting turned around.  With mapping and directions, now it is a simple matter of following instructions and magically arriving at your destination!

Q: What was your first cell phone?

I don't remember my first cell, but my first smartphone was a Huawei p10 which I still think is one of the best ever made.

Q: What mainstream tech device is at the top of your wish list, or, what new tech can you not get enough of?

I have been working in the Augmented Reality development space for almost 10 years now and very much look forward to the day when it will be ubiquitous and available as a bluetooth contact lens.  In the meantime, I'm looking forward to seeing what the new generation of AR wearables has to offer!  When walking to work is a quest, we will have arrived. :)

Q: If you were a mainstream tech device, what would you be, and why?

I have to go with the obvious here, the smartphone.  I work hard to be the best possible multi-tool that I can be - capable of helping out in every situation - and that is exactly what a smartphone is.