COMPASS is thrilled to announce that VetIF Student Casey Chason has received two distinguished honors from the 29th Annual TechConnect World Innovation Conference & Expo, taking place March 10–12, 2026, in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Casey was selected as a winner of the 2026 TechConnect World Best Student Abstract Award and has also been accepted for an oral presentation at this prestigious international event. The recognized project:
“Soft Wearable Ionotronic Tactile Sensors from Sustainable Homocomposite Hydrogels”
(Authors: C. Chason, P.H. Wink Reis, L.C. Hsiao, O.D. Velev)
demonstrates pioneering work at the intersection of soft electronics, tactile sensing, and sustainable materials. These recognitions underscore the scientific impact and innovation emerging from our VetIF program.
As a Best Student Abstract winner, Casey will receive a complimentary student registration to attend the conference. Additionally, the oral presentation acceptance places this work among the top research contributions showcased at TechConnect World, known for connecting breakthrough academic science with industry, government, and technology leaders.
Oral presenters receive a dedicated 20-minute session, including Q&A, within one of the conference’s highly competitive technical tracks.
For nearly 30 years, TechConnect World has served as a leading global convening point for applied research and innovation. With more than 30 technical symposia and deep ties to industry and federal agencies, the conference accelerates the transition of emerging technologies into real-world solutions.
We congratulate Casey on these two impressive achievements and look forward to representing COMPASS and the VetIF program on the national stage. This recognition reflects not only outstanding research effort but also the collaborative spirit driving innovation across our community.
Congratulations, Casey — we are incredibly proud of your accomplishments!