Dr. Mark Dean, the 2024 Black Engineer of the Year
Dr. Mark Dean, the 2024 Black Engineer of the Year, stands as a trailblazer in the field of computer science, with a career marked by revolutionary contributions to personal computing. His insights into the past, present, and future of technology offer a unique lens into the evolving digital landscape.
Dr. Dean reflects on the early days of computing, where the primary aim was to boost productivity by replacing typewriters and calculators with more efficient digital tools. He recalls how the IBM PC was initially expected to have modest success, but its open design led to an explosion in global demand and compatibility, sparking a technological revolution.
A key element of this success, according to Dr. Dean, was the team’s decision to share their innovations openly. This collaborative spirit enabled other companies to build on their ideas, dramatically accelerating the growth of the personal computing industry.
Discussing operating systems, Dr. Dean highlights how platforms like DOS made computers more accessible by managing interactions between hardware and software. He also emphasizes the importance of web browsers, calling them vital tools for real-time, global communication in the modern digital environment.
Looking forward, Dr. Dean envisions a future where traditional devices like smartphones and laptops are replaced by hands-free technologies such as augmented reality (AR). He describes a world where users engage with information through AR glasses, enhancing efficiency and maintaining mobility.
Artificial intelligence (AI), he notes, will play a critical role in this future—not by replacing human thought, but by guiding decisions, learning from past data, and making users smarter. Dr. Dean stresses the importance of ethical AI use to ensure it enhances rather than diminishes our humanity.
Turning to the digital divide, Dr. Dean is passionate about creating equitable access to technology for all students. He advocates for initiatives like distributing low-cost Chromebooks and teaching digital literacy and ethics to prepare underserved youth for a tech-driven future.
In education, he calls on teachers to embrace technology as a tool for enrichment rather than replacement. Technology, he believes, should make learning more engaging and empower educators to reach students in innovative ways, while also emphasizing the growing importance of data and AI in business decision-making.
One of Dr. Dean’s most impactful contributions is his support for STEM City USA—a virtual platform aimed at providing access to educational and cultural resources for underserved communities. Through mentorship, immersive activities, and live events, it nurtures the next generation of STEM leaders.
Dr. Dean’s vision is clear: technology should be a force for good—accessible, ethical, and inclusive. His work and advocacy remind us that innovation must be guided by responsibility, and that with the right tools and mindset, the future of technology holds limitless possibilities for all.
