Tom Birdsong

R&D Engineer

Tom Birdsong is an R&D engineer on Kitware’s Medical Computing Team located in Carrboro, North Carolina. He collaborates with the rest of the Medical Computing Team to design, develop, and improve medical image analysis, visualization, and simulation software. He also supports some of the open source applications managed by Kitware, such as 3D Slicer.

While pursuing his degree at Clemson University, Tom founded the Clemson Immersive Space lab to lead interdisciplinary academic engagement with mixed reality technologies. He led the lab for three years to support students and professors in programs including nursing, computing, and the arts with virtual and augmented reality learning.

Tom also spent one year as a full-time Firmware DevOps Co-op at Itron, Inc. in R&D, where he led test automation development and execution on smart meter networks. He also completed an internship with Deloitte Consulting in their Government & Public Services sector and spent nearly two years as a part-time student innovation intern at Clemson.

Tom received his bachelor’s degree in computer engineering with a minor in mathematical sciences from Clemson University in 2020.

Education

B.S. in computer engineering, minor in mathematical sciences, from Clemson University, 2020

Awards

Samuel B. Earle Award presented by Clemson University College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences, 2020

Design Excellence Award presented by Clemson University Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, 2020

Get to Know Tom

Why did you want to become a Kitwarean? Kitware appealed to me with its emphasis on research and open-source development. The Medical Computing team takes a unique approach to its work with cutting-edge technology, and in my discussions with existing Kitwareans, it was clear that team members are passionate about the research and the impact they are making.

What do you love most about what you do? I enjoy the act of solving difficult problems and creating new experiences to aid others in their work. Software development allows me to meet people at their needs and collaboratively solve challenges with a powerful toolbox. Whether writing scripts or developing entire virtual worlds, making a positive impact drives me to improve my skills.

Share something interesting about yourself that is not on your resume. I moved to North Carolina during the COVID-19 pandemic and I’ve started running as a way to explore new areas. I like to play narrative video games such as Night in the Woods as well as VR games like Half Life: Alyx. I enjoy baking bread, hiking, and reading.

Professional Associations & Services

  • Member of IEEE Computer Society Eta Kappa Nu (IEEE-HKN)
  • Member of Tau Beta Pi