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Andre Dominic Anthony Peter Cropper was born on August 4th 1961
and grew up in St James, Trinidad. He attended Newtown Boys R.C.
Primary School and Fatima College. He was fascinated by
Mathematics and Physics and often tinkered with electronic
devices as a youngster. He knew he wanted to be an electrical
engineer. An avid swimmer, he represented Trinidad and Tobago in
Caribbean and international games during the 1970s.
He received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from
Howard University, Washington D.C. in 1984 and a Master of
Science in 1987 and taught at Norfolk State University, in
Norfolk, Virginia. In his spare time, he began research on
diamond technologies and their applications to semi-conductor
technologies.
Cropper sent a proposal to NASA and impressed the agency with
the idea, but was informed that “a qualified researcher” would
take charge of the work and he would work under that person as
he did not have his doctorate. He refused the offer, and in 1995
gained his Ph.D. in Electrical/Materials Engineering from
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in
Blacksburg, Virginia where he developed his idea. He returned to
Trinidad and lectured at the Department of Electrical
Engineering, the University of the West Indies.
In 1999 he joined Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, New York
as a Research Associate and Project Manager of OLED
applications. At present, he is the Technology Development
Manager for New Business within the U.S. Department of Defense
and other National Laboratories within ITT Industries Space
Systems Division. He determines discriminating image science,
electronic and sensor product technologies needed to support
innovation, prepares technology roadmaps and initiates and
pursues funding for research and development projects.
In his free time he is involved in the promotion of science
awareness to educate and inspire young scientists. He
contributes to academic institutions conducting workshops and
guest lectures at university campuses, professional
organizations and science fairs. He is a role model and liaison
with schools from kindergarten to secondary level.
Cropper regularly gives back to the youths of his homeland and
has delivered seminars at Fatima College, St. Anthony’s College,
Republic Bank Youth Link and The University of the West Indies.
His vision is to promote science and engineering awareness in
our society and to encourage young innovative minds to develop
and attain their true potential.
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