“MacGyver”-Like Rehabilitation Engineer Helps Kids at Blythedale

Blythedale Children’s Hospital in Valhalla, N.Y., the state’s only independent, specialty children’s hospital and one of only 14 pediatric specialty hospitals in the United States, announces the hiring of its first rehabilitation engineer- Andres Guerrero, MSE. Think of the position as “MacGyver” at a children’s hospital

Mr. Guerrero earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechatronics Engineering (combination of mechanical/electrical/programming engineer) at the Escuela Politecnica del Ejercito in his home country of Ecuador and a Master of Science in Engineering at the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a specialization in Design and Commercialization. Over the past few years, Mr. Guerrero’s expertise spans the fields of biomedical research, energy and robotics.

“I love to find solutions to unconventional problems,” said Andres Guerrero, MSE. “I want to be the person who makes the process simpler for everyone and ultimately, improve lives.”

Blythedale Children’s Hospital is one of a small number of hospitals across the country that have a rehabilitation engineer on staff.

In his new role, Mr. Guerrero will be providing on-site support to the assistive technology department. In addition, he will be working alongside clinicians to create individualized solutions that meet the unique needs of medically complex children. Mr. Guerrero will also be developing equipment/device prototypes using the Hospital’s new, state-of-the-art 3D printer.

Since his arrival, Mr. Guerrero successfully trained numerous parents and staff on how to rewire and adapt toys for children with special needs. He also plans to create a STEM program at the Hospital with local high school/college students.

See Andres in action below...