In May 2025, IEEE Computer Society member and technology professional Shrinivass Arunachalam Balasubramanian joined an international panel of experts at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), serving as a Grand Award Judge in the Technology That Enhances the Arts (TECA) category. Held in Columbus, Ohio, the event marked the 75th anniversary of ISEF—the world’s largest and most prestigious STEM research competition for high school students.
The fair welcomed over 1,600 finalists representing more than 60 countries, regions, and territories, showcasing cutting-edge science and engineering projects competing for nearly $9 million in scholarships, internships, and awards. Sponsored by the Society for Science, ISEF offers a global platform for emerging innovators to present research that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.
“ISEF is a celebration of bold ideas,” said Shrinivass. “These students are not only solving problems—they are redefining how we approach inclusivity, accessibility, and human expression through technology.”
Judging the Future of Accessible Innovation
As part of the TECA panel, Shrinivass evaluated projects at the intersection of technology, creativity, and social impact—where emerging technologies are applied to enhance how we communicate, perform, and connect across diverse communities.
Among the standout projects:
- eiBraille – A revolutionary system that leverages artificial intelligence and low-cost tactile hardware to reinvent Braille education. Designed to make literacy more accessible to blind individuals worldwide, the project envisions a “zero-discrimination society” where inclusive education is the norm, not the exception.
- Wearable ASL Translator – A bi-directional communication device enabling real-time translation between American Sign Language (ASL) and spoken language. The solution uses sensor-based gesture recognition and natural language processing to break communication barriers between the hearing and deaf communities.
- S.M.A.R.T. Device for the Visually Impaired – An integrated wearable platform offering Support, Mobility, Assistance, Recovery, and Technology. Using ultrasonic sensors, GPS, and AI, the system enhances spatial awareness, navigation, and emergency responsiveness for people with visual impairments.
“These projects embody the spirit of human-centered design,” said Shrinivass. “The ingenuity of these students demonstrates how emerging developers and engineers are thinking holistically—blending empathy with technology to address real-world challenges.”
An IEEE Professional’s Perspective
Shrinivass brings over a decade of experience in front-end architecture, micro-frontend systems, and user-centric design. His recent work includes declarative UI frameworks using Angular, GraphQL optimization, and scalable design systems that prioritize accessibility, maintainability, and performance.
His technical perspective—grounded in industry best practices and standards—contributed to balanced evaluations of innovation, feasibility, and social impact.
“As an IEEE member, I see these experiences not just as volunteering but as mission-aligned. Mentoring and supporting the next generation of engineers is a way to give back and help shape a more equitable tech future,” he noted.
In addition to his role as a judge, Shrinivass is actively involved in STEM advocacy, IEEE Computer Society communities, and is currently authoring a technical article focused on Angular’s new control flow features and their implications for declarative UI design.
Encouraging Cross-Disciplinary Futures
The TECA category at ISEF highlights a growing recognition within STEM education: the boundary between engineering and the arts is increasingly fluid. Whether through AI-generated music, VR storytelling, or tactile educational tools, today’s students are building technologies that not only function, but inspire.
“What we witnessed at ISEF is a preview of where computing is headed—toward a world where interfaces are intuitive, systems are inclusive, and technology amplifies every voice,” Shrinivass shared.
For IEEE members and professionals interested in participating as mentors, judges, or supporters of global STEM education, ISEF offers a high-impact opportunity to engage with the world’s brightest high school researchers.
Learn more about Regeneron ISEF at www.societyforscience.org/isef
