Steven M Kurtz, PhD
Research Professor
Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
As a biomedical engineer, clinical researcher, and consultant, the AAOS has always provided a great opportunity to keep abreast of the latest advancements – the Annual Meeting has helped my career from both an educational and professional development perspective, especially the technical and scientific exhibits. By serving on the Exhibits committee and the Device Forum, I had the opportunity to see “behind the scenes” and learn how the AAOS works closely with the FDA to support innovation for the orthopedic community. These experiences served me well during my academic and consulting career.
As an Affiliated Professional Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
The Exhibits floor at the Annual Meeting! I go every year if I can.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
When I was a kid, my parents, who were both physicians, advised me not to go into medicine! Trained in the ‘60’s and ‘70s, they lived through changes in reimbursement and managed care. I guess I went into it anyway, but as a biomedical engineer and consultant instead of as a physician. It turned out to be wonderful advice for me; although I never attended medical school it turns out I went into medicine anyway.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
Exercise in the morning to get the creative juices flowing, I push off to the afternoon so I can focus my most alert time on writing and creative research tasks. I have found that my least productive time of the day is after 1 PM, so I don’t try to force myself to do creative tasks then and focus more on meetings and zoom calls then if I can.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
Healthier eating habits, especially portion control.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
Travel, cooking and fine wine. Hence the need for more discipline in this area. 😊
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I was born in Okinawa, Japan when my parents were stationed there by the Army. I guess it explains my lifelong fascination with Japanese culture and cuisine.