Martin Tanaka

Martin Tanaka is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the College of Engineering and Technology, Western Carolina University (WCU). He holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from North Carolina State University, an MS in Engineering Mechanics from Virginia Tech, and a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Virginia Tech and Wake Forest University. His research focuses on developing biomedical devices, computational modeling, neuromuscular control systems, and fostering industry-academic collaborations. As a licensed professional engineer, he emphasizes design, testing, and optimization in projects, often partnering with local businesses and the U.S. Armed Forces. He teaches courses in design for manufacturing, product development, and material properties.

• Education:
• PhD in Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Tech & Wake Forest University
• MS in Engineering Mechanics, Virginia Tech
• BS in Mechanical Engineering, North Carolina State University
• Affiliations: American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME Fellow)

His work integrates mechanical engineering principles to address biomedical challenges, with a focus on assistive technologies for veterans. He actively mentors graduate and undergraduate students in research projects and industry partnerships.