Charles graduated with a MEng in Mechanical Engineering in 2015. He is now a co-founder and CEO of Corner Wearables.
What did you learn during your time at Imperial, in class and out?
"As part of my studies in Mechanical Engineering, I gained a high understanding of statistics and methods for data analysis. I also built up skills in programming through the Embedded C course. It was during my projects in my 3rd and 4th year where I was given time to combine these skills to start on novel projects and bring forth innovations in Imperials Biomechatronic lab. There’s no avoiding it, Imperial College give you a lot of work to deal with, but this gave me a strong work ethic and the tools to be effective at applying myself to new challenges."
Tell us a bit about the work you’re doing now.
"After graduating from Imperial College in 2015, I founded Corner Wearables to take the concept developed in my 4th year project to a product available for athletes and coaches in gyms worldwide. Corner builds wearable technology to provide objective performance feedback to athletes and coaches in combat sport training. Our mission is to have a product and service range that extends across all skills levels, to assist athletes from grass-roots sport to high-performance elite competition."
What would be your advice for current students?
"I would recommend all students to make the most of the resources available at imperial whilst you are there. The project I conducted in my 4th year was a bit “out there” compared to a typical 4th year project, but that didn’t stop the university from supporting me in my work. It is a rare opportunity to dedicate your time purely to working on a project, and be able to completely make it your own whilst being supported by a cutting-edge institution!"
What is your fondest memory of your time here?
"My fondest memory and Imperial was completing my 4th year project and showcasing it at the science museum and in front of the Research and Innovation Director for Team GB. Not only was this the culmination of a 4 year course, it was the satisfaction of bringing a passion project from idea conception to proof of concept."
How has what you learned at Imperial helped you in your career so far?
"I use what I learnt at Imperial everyday. Skills in programming C and plastic design were immediately put to use in manufacturing our own bluetooth sensor for tracking athletes movements. Project management skills were crucial whilst studying Mechanical Engineering, and I continue to utilise and develop these skills day-to-day in my career."
What are your plans for the future?
"Corner has successfully taken an idea to a mass-manufactured product that is now being used in gyms all over the world. I plan to continue developing our technology to better fit into the lives of our users, and bring further benefits to their training day-to-day. After a few tests at live boxing events with broadcasters, I also have the ambition to use our technology to further the TV experience for fans watching boxing, with punch statistics shown in real-time fro the fight."