Skip to main site navigation OPEN THE MAIN MENU Discovering New Technologies to Solve Environmental Issues Social Media Links Home Student Experience Student and Alumni Stories Discovering New Technologies to Solve Environmental Issues Discovering New Conservation Technologies Illinois Tech has provided Sydney Kaplan with research opportunities that have ignited her passion for conservation technology. She applies robotics to solve complex, unique engineering problems experienced by tree scientists. Sydney Kaplan (Mechanical Engineering/M.E. Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering 4th Year) Illinois Tech has provided Sydney Kaplan (Mechanical Engineering/M.E. Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering 4th Year) with opportunities that are leading her toward a future in discovering new technologies and making a positive impact on our environment. Sydney’s summer research project through The Morton Arboretum and the Robotics Lab@IIT has been the highlight of her time at Illinois Tech. “My research has challenged me to learn beyond my mechanical engineering degree, as much of it involved computer programming. Learning to code was daunting at first, but I jumped in and learned that any problem can be solved with perseverance.” This research has opened many doors for Sydney and ignited her passion for conservation technology. Through this experience, Sydney has explored her passions and used robotics to solve complex, unique engineering problems experienced by tree scientists. Additionally, Sydney recently presented a poster on her findings at The International Symposium for Precision Management of Orchards and Vineyards in Palermo, Italy. Sydney also studied abroad at Lund University in Sweden, which she describes as one of the most impactful experiences in college. “I had the opportunity to take hands-on robotics classes while in Lund and grow as an individual while learning about different cultures.” Tags: Student Story Armour College of Engineering Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering Related Stories Shooting for the Stars (Computer Science 1st Year) Navigating Illinois Tech as a Commuter Student (Mechanical Engineering 2nd Year) A Pathway to Computer Chip Design (Electrical Engineering/M.S. Computer Engineering 3rd Year) Learn more... Illinois Tech welcomes you to join our community of people who discover, create, and solve. Apply today, visit us in Chicago, and contact us for more information. REQUEST INFO VISIT APPLY CONTACT 10 West 35th Street Chicago, IL 60616 312.567.3000 Contact Us Social Media Links Facebook YouTube Twitter LinkedIn Instagram CAMPUS Emergency Information Employment Alumni WEB LINKS Privacy Copyright Concerns IBHE Online Complaint System Student Complaint Information Student Non-Discrimination Policy We use technologies, such as cookies, to customize content and advertising, to provide social media features, and to analyze traffic to the site. By using or registering on any portion of this site, you agree to our privacy and cookie statement. DISMISS PRIVACY STATEMENT