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Dr. Jose M. Garcia-Bravo is currently an Associate Professor for the Mechanical Engineering Technology academic program where he has a special focus on fluid power (hydraulic and pneumatic systems) research and instruction, additive manufacturing and smart manufacturing using Industrial Internet of Things technologies. Dr. Garcia-Bravo received his B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from Universidad de Los Andes, Bogota in 2002, His M.Sc. in 2006 and Ph.D. in 2011 from Purdue University.

Dr. Garcia-Bravo has gained national recognition for his work in applied fluid power. His work includes the use of additive manufacturing for the fabrication of soft actuators, valves, embedded sensors and low-pressure positive displacement pumps for applications in robotics, industrial and vehicular systems. He holds one patent for an invention for 3D printed lens gratings, and three provisional patents for materials and processes for the development of additively manufactured sensors.

Dr. Garcia-Bravo investigates how hydraulic systems can improve the performance and efficiency of heavy-duty vehicles or industrial equipment, the use of Mixed Reality in the classroom and manufacturing, and improved processes for water purification. In 2019, Dr. Garcia-Bravo was awarded the Purdue Polytechnic Outstanding Faculty in Learning Award, a distinction given to the faculty in the college for their performance and contributions to teaching and learning at the Purdue Polytechnic Institute. In 2022 he received the Outstanding Faculty in Engagement award for his contributions to advance the fluid power industry.

Dr. Garcia-Bravo has made significant teaching and engagement and globalization contributions in fluid power education and to the Mechanical Engineering Technology program, he has overseen the design and implementation of a miniature electro-hydraulic excavator arm, the creation of the fluid power student club and continuously facilitates student mobility opportunities for Purdue students and students from Mexico, Colombia and Peru.