TAMEST Profile: Walter E. Voit, Ph.D., UT Dallas

It was an early-career internship that first opened TAMEST 2025 Annual Conference Science Co-Chair Walter E. Voit, Ph.D.’s eyes to the potential of interdisciplinary research and the profound impact that advances in materials science could have on technology and society. Now, years later, Dr. Voit’s innovative work at the cross-section of engineering, materials science, artificial intelligence, computer engineering and polymer science has propelled him to significant developments in 3D printing and digital immersive innovation across academia and industry.

Dr. Voit currently serves as an Associate Professor and the Director of the Center for Engineering Innovation at The University of Texas at Dallas. He is an accomplished entrepreneur and researcher with numerous groundbreaking companies and patents under his belt. His research has led to the creation of specialized plastic and rubber materials for 3D printing that are utilized to create prosthetics for veterans, parts for aerospace engineering and materials in consumer goods such as footwear and cushioning. His latest venture, Pedegree Studios Inc., seeks to employ immersive digital media in video games to discover new ways to teach impactful learning to the next generation of engineers.

Dr. Voit says he agreed to serve as Science Co-Chair of the TAMEST 2025 Annual Conference: Transformational Breakthroughs for the opportunity to engage with other thought leaders and explore cutting-edge research that has the potential to change the world. TAMEST connected with Dr. Voit to learn more about his work, the importance of cross-discipline research and the TAMEST 2025 Annual Conference.

Please briefly describe how you found your path to materials science and engineering. 

My path to materials science and engineering was somewhat unconventional. My academic journey began with undergraduate and master’s studies in computer science and artificial intelligence. During this time, I developed a strong foundation in computational methods and problem-solving skills. My interest in materials science was sparked during two summer internships at Los Alamos National Labs, where I was exposed to a range of intriguing problems in the physical and chemical sciences. These experiences opened my eyes to the potential of interdisciplinary research and the profound impact that advances in materials science could have on technology and society.

Following my time at Los Alamos, I worked at Zyvex, a pioneering company in nanotechnology. Here, I encountered firsthand the challenges and opportunities associated with developing advanced materials. The experience at Zyvex was particularly formative, as it allowed me to apply my computational expertise to solve complex materials science problems, bridging the gap between theoretical models and practical applications.

These experiences inspired me to pursue further studies and research in materials science and engineering. I was fascinated by the ability to design and manipulate materials at the molecular level to achieve desired properties and functionalities. This interdisciplinary approach, combining principles from computer science, physics, and chemistry, was both challenging and rewarding.

My journey eventually led me to focus on additive manufacturing and 3D printing, where I saw the potential to revolutionize traditional manufacturing processes. By developing new materials specifically designed for 3D printing, we could create products with enhanced performance and functionality, paving the way for breakthroughs in industries ranging from aerospace to healthcare. In summary, my path to materials science and engineering was driven by a blend of computational expertise and a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration, coupled with a commitment to creating materials that can transform industries and improve lives.

 You are the Co-Founder of Adaptive3D. Talk about what your vision was when starting the company. 

When co-founding Adaptive3D, our vision was to fundamentally change how the world designs and manufactures materials at both the meso and micro scales. Our aim is to introduce a new paradigm where complexity in material patterning is not a limitation but a driving force for innovation. By leveraging pioneering technology from Texas Instruments, specifically scaled Digital Light Processing (DLP), we strive to pattern complexity into materials at a cost structure that makes these advanced materials accessible and practical for widespread use.

Our goal is to enable the mass customization of materials, allowing for the creation of products with precise, intricate features that enhance performance and functionality. This approach opens up new possibilities across various industries, from aerospace to healthcare, by providing materials that are tailored to specific needs and applications.

At Adaptive3D, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible with additive manufacturing, leading the way in the development of high-performance, flexible, and durable materials.

You have developed specialized plastic and rubber materials manufactured through additive manufacturing or 3D printing. Talk about the transformational uses of 3D printing. 

3D printing has the potential to revolutionize manufacturing by enabling the creation of complex geometries and customized solutions that were previously impossible.

Our specialized plastic and rubber materials have been used in products that require high precision and performance, such as prosthetics, cushioning for consumer goods, and components for the aerospace industry. This technology allows for rapid prototyping and production, reducing time and costs while enhancing innovation.

In addition to your work in 3D printing, you recently started Pedegree Studios, Inc., which seeks to make impactful learning accessible through immersive digital media. Tell us about the project. 

Pedegree Studios, Inc. was founded to make impactful learning accessible through immersive digital media. Recognizing that many students would prefer playing video games over attending classes, taking tests, or doing homework, we sought to leverage this preference to enhance educational outcomes.

By building upon a mod for the world’s most popular game, Minecraft, and augmenting it over a decade, we have developed ways to deliver exceptional, advanced, and rigorous content through polished game mechanics. Our approach is to create engaging educational experiences that are not only fun but also highly effective in conveying complex concepts.

By integrating educational content with a platform that students are already enthusiastic about, we can capture their interest and sustain their engagement. This project is driven by a commitment to democratize education and provide learners with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world, using innovative methods that resonate with today’s digital-native generation.

What makes you most passionate about your work?

I am most passionate about the opportunity to innovate and create solutions that have a tangible impact on people’s lives. Whether it’s developing new materials or pioneering educational technologies, the potential to make a difference drives my work every day.

As someone who works both in industry and academia, talk about the importance of collaboration between the two. 

Collaboration between industry and academia is crucial for advancing research and translating discoveries into practical applications. My work in both spheres allows me to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world implementation, fostering innovation and ensuring that our findings benefit society.

You received your BS and MS at UT Dallas before joining the faculty. Talk about your decision to return to teach at UT Dallas and in Texas.

Returning to UT Dallas was a decision driven by a desire to give back to the institution that provided me with a strong foundation in my early career. The opportunity to teach and mentor the next generation of engineers in a dynamic and supportive environment was incredibly appealing.

Additionally, the profound impact of the McDermott family on Dallas, education, and UT Dallas significantly influenced my decision. The McDermott family’s vision and generosity have transformed UT Dallas into a leading research institution, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. Their contributions to education and the community have created an environment where both students and faculty can thrive.

Being part of an institution with such a rich legacy and a commitment to advancing knowledge and societal well-being is truly inspiring. I would also like to acknowledge the pivotal role that Dr. Hobson Wildenthal has played in the history of UT Dallas. His leadership and dedication have been instrumental in the university’s growth and success. Dr. Wildenthal’s efforts in strengthening the academic programs and expanding the research capabilities of UT Dallas have made a lasting impact, ensuring that the university remains at the forefront of higher education and research.

Talk about the role of mentoring in your career.

Mentoring has played a significant role in my career, and I believe it is essential to nurture and guide young scientists and engineers. Sharing knowledge and experiences helps foster growth and innovation, ensuring that future leaders are well-equipped to tackle the challenges ahead.

You currently serve as the Science Co-Chair for the TAMEST 2025 Annual Conference program committee. Why did you decide to volunteer your time and expertise for this effort?

Because I believe in the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing to drive transformational breakthroughs.

It is an excellent platform to bring together leading minds to discuss and address critical issues in science and technology and continue to position Texas on the world stage, driven by a robust economy kept relevant with the influx of new ideas at the right pacing. Too soon and good ideas die in academic journals. Too late and good ideas are implanted elsewhere. By working with thought leaders across academia, politics and industry, the impact that higher education can have on society is multiplied.

What are you most excited about for the TAMEST 2025 Annual Conference? 

I am most excited about the opportunity to engage with other thought leaders and explore cutting-edge research that has the potential to change the world. The conference promises to be a hub of innovation and inspiration, and I look forward to the stimulating discussions and collaborations that will emerge.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I am grateful for the support of my wife, children, colleagues, mentors and students who have been instrumental in my journey. I look forward to continuing our work together and contributing to the advancement of materials sciences and engineering.

Walter E. Voit, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Materials Science and Engineering as well as Mechanical Engineering and Bioengineering and the Director of the Center for Engineering Innovation at The University of Texas at Dallas. He is the founder of: Adaptive3D, a Desktop Metal Company; Qualia Inc; Qualia Oto, Inc; BackStop Neural, Inc.; Regulife Medical. Inc.; Qualia Labs Inc; Skin Aware, Inc.; Inspire Bioelectronics, Inc.; Capavax, Inc.; Pedegree Studios Inc.; and the creator of Polycraft World.