Bright Sparks News

Mikael Stewart is a former Bright Spark who won the competition in 2001 with his hexapod robot. Mikael is now working at Fisher & Paykel Healthcare as a project leader in a team of 20 people developing a respiratory humidifier. He has been there for four-and-a-half years and it’s his first full-time job after graduating with a Bachelor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Auckland University in 2008.

Mikael is currently working on designing a new model of an AIRVO humidifier unit for people with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). He has been involved in redesigning the units to meet electromagnetic compliance regulations along with creating backup systems for the units. Mikael even has an oxygen sensor of his own design patented and in use in these humidifiers which is a tremendous achievement.

Mikael holding the AIRVO Humidifier

Eventually Mikael would like to start up his own business dealing with robotics. His number one rule when he operates his own business is that it must be fun, just like his experiences with Bright Sparks. For anyone interested in electronics and technology, Mikael has a simple message.

“Join Bright Sparks. Take it up as a hobby, do what you can to get involved and just have fun.”

For those who think they might be interested in entering the Bright Sparks competition this year, join the club on this website. An entry pack with posters has also been sent to all New Zealand secondary schools. If you or your school didn't receive one and would like one, contact Christina Yee on 09 583 1343 or email christinay@etito.co.nz and we'll send something out to you.