As a leader at the intersection of tech and media, Kevin Simkins has worked for 25 years as an entrepreneur, innovator, senior tech manager, sales manager, advertising sales representative and TV/Radio personality. He's a competitive leader in the fields of interactive 3D application simulations, collaboration tools, and artificial intelligence. He's received numerous accolades and awards, including as the first ever three-time winner of the U.S. Army's Federal Virtual Worlds Challenge for prizes in "Artificial Intelligence Assisted Training", "Collaboration," and "Skill Building.” He previously served as the Head Industry Adviser for the NASA Immersive Synthetic Environment Research (NISER) team. He also served as an Electric Association Advisory Committee member for the MEA Energy Association. He holds the title of Vice-Chair for the IEEE Virtual World Standard Group and serves as it's Ontology/Taxonomy Lead. As a two-time finalist of the Chicago Innovation Awards, he has been lauded for his continued and sustained commitment to innovation. He’s written a script for a NASA-based television show and coordinated the media-blitz to promote NASA’s presence at the 2016 Chicago Air and Water Show. His latest focus is geared towards developing events and programs that supports NASA’s education and public outreach objectives as a NASA Solar System Ambassador. Born and raised in Illinois, Kevin lives in Chicago. He grew up with a passion for aviation, radio, technology, and all things NASA. He's a private pilot and enjoys boating, water-skiing, traveling, and spending time with his family and friends.