Hi, I’m Ben Kolligs. I grew up in Berkeley, CA and received a degree in Physics from Lewis & Clark College in Portland, OR in May 2018. I will obtain my MS in Robotics Systems Development from Carnegie Mellon University in 2022.
My years of experience in dance, theater, and improv comedy taught me how to be an effective collaborator and approach design problems from outside the box.
I first got interested in robotics after working on the UNEEKBOT at Keen. I quickly grew curious about how these industrial robots really worked, and that’s what drove me to CMU. While I am specializing in planning, controls, and autonomy, I always appreciate getting my hands dirty by probing a PCB or producing a prototype in a machine shop. Outside of the technical realm, I have treasured the opportunities to work with diverse and creative peers who have challenged me to do better in all aspects of my craft.
When I’m not working on robotics, I enjoy hiking, flying planes, and going to improv comedy shows. Recently, I’ve been taking an interest in learning how to cook. Legend has it my kitchen constantly smells like garlic and onions.