Dr. Ashok Joshi is an accomplished technologist, entrepreneur, and global thought leader in science and innovation. Currently serving as the President of the Higher Education Foundation, USA, and Founder of Microlin LLC, USA, Dr. Joshi began his professional journey as an engineer at Ceramatec Inc. in 1984. Demonstrating exceptional leadership and vision, he rose to become CEO in 1996, successfully steering the company from a state of uncertainty to remarkable growth. Under his stewardship, Ceramatec grew by 300% over eight years, culminating in its acquisition by CoorsTek, the world’s largest technical ceramics company.
Dr. Joshi is widely recognized for his pioneering work across energy, environment, and biotechnology sectors. A prolific innovator, he holds over 130 issued U.S. patents and more than 40 pending patents. His thought leadership is globally acknowledged, having been invited to speak at prestigious platforms, including the NATO Conference on Advanced Battery Technology. His remarkable contributions have earned him numerous accolades such as the Maxell Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award (2014), Utah Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology (2004), and India’s National Small Business Entrepreneurial Award presented by the Honourable President Zail Singh (1983), among others.
Deeply committed to giving back to society, Dr. Joshi has actively engaged in educational and social development initiatives, particularly in rural India. From supporting 21 rural schools to establishing an institution for mentally challenged children in Wai, his philanthropy has touched countless lives. He has also empowered women through microloans and created cross-cultural learning experiences for U.S. students by facilitating service trips to India. In the U.S., Dr. Joshi has held key positions on boards such as Westminster College, Salt Lake Community College, and the India Cultural Centre, continuing to mentor and support students and institutions with unwavering dedication.