Hometown: Cedar Park, Texas 

Studies: Ophthalmology Resident

Zac has always been drawn to solving problems through hands-on tinkering and innovation, combined with a deep appreciation for human physiology and patient care. Through the Texas A&M EnMed program, where he earned both his MD and Master of Engineering, Zac developed strong skills in identifying clinical needs and prototyping medical devices. One of his notable projects involved adapting the slit lamp microscope to improve accessibility and telemedicine capabilities in ophthalmology, reflecting his commitment to developing practical, patient-centered innovations.

Now a second-year ophthalmology resident, Zac is surrounded by a wealth of clinical exposure that sharpens his ability to find meaningful unmet needs. While residency demands much of his time, he actively works on advancing medical device concepts and prototypes. Zac views the Iowa Innovation Leadership Fellows Program as a critical step toward building the business expertise and mentorship necessary to move his projects beyond early stages. He is especially eager to learn from experienced founders how to navigate challenges such as intellectual property, scope management, and commercialization strategy.

Zac aspires to become a well-rounded surgeon-inventor who not only delivers excellent patient care but also partners effectively with the ophthalmic innovation industry. He aims to develop and consult on cutting-edge ophthalmic devices and eventually launch technologies that improve vision care globally. In his free time, Zac enjoys outdoor activities like fishing and gardening, playing pickleball, and collecting vinyl records.