Mehdi Mortazavi

Industrial Designer and Researcher at University of Houston Health Design Lab

Co-led a NSF-funded FDA Research Experiences for Undergraduates initiative, guiding two undergraduate researchers through ideation, prototyping, and research in regulatory sciences and medical exoskeleton design; collaborated with medical and design professionals to design a medical over-the-head arm support to prevent iatrogenic brachial plexus injuries during surgical procedures; built 3D-printed prototypes using weight-bearing printing techniques to conduct user testing; executed ideation, CAD modeling, prototyping, user testing, and presented design progress in bi-weekly team meetings.

Exoskeleton Consultant at HAPO Exoskeletons – Health Care Division

Oversaw the Texas medical market for occupational exoskeletons, including outreach, follow-ups, and client relationship management; developed and maintained marketing materials tailored to the U.S. medical sector; coordinated with partners and clients to drive adoption.

Industrial Designer and Entrepreneur at Misfit Design Studio

Co-founded Houston’s first dedicated industrial design consultancy; led business growth through lead generation, client relations, and daily operations. Drove product development across wearable and assistive technology projects, including lightweight exoskeletons.

Industrial Designer and Entrepreneur at Exo Braced

Led development and launch of lightweight wearable exoskeletons for occupational use; designed Exo Bak, the lightest and most affordable occupational exoskeleton (1.5 lbs); secured pre-seed funding through multi-state pitch events (+$20,000); presented Exo Bak at trade shows such as the Detroit Auto Show, attracting industry interest; piloted products with companies in Texas, Ohio, and Canada and incorporated user feedback (3–6 weeks); conducted lab studies at Université de Picardie Jules Verne in France (published study).

Industrial Design Shop Assistant at Burdette Keeland, Jr. Design Exploration Center

Supported students and faculty with prototyping and safe operation of advanced fabrication tools while maintaining an organized shop environment.