In this episode of the We’re Not Stumped podcast, I drink through a fire-hose when I learn about Joe Fairley and what he does with 3D printing. To say this gentleman is impressive with his knowledge and background is an understatement.
Joe is an ABC Certified Prosthetist & Board Eligible Orthotist, who has experience as a P&O technician before pursuing his Master’s in Prosthetics and Orthotics from Northwestern University (NUPOC). His BS in Physics and MS in Exercise and Sport Science equally compliment his clinical experience.
Joe has been at the forefront of revolutionizing digital workflows in the P&O domain. His expertise spans a multitude of areas, including additive manufacturing, CAD design, research and development (R&D), various 3D scanning methods, and instrumental contributions to the creation of two widely adopted modification software. He holds a patent for his work in continuous fiber fabrication for a modular lower limb prosthesis system. His achievements extend to publication in Prosthetics and Orthotics International and presentations at numerous P&O conferences.
Joe’s passion lies within the realm of prosthetics, where his innovation isn’t limited to digital workflows alone. He’s particularly dedicated to collaborating with individuals who utilize running prostheses and the pediatric amputee community. Beyond his professional pursuits, Joe is a devoted outdoors enthusiast, engaging in activities such as hiking (ADK 46er), camping, long-distance running (including marathons), skiing, and kayaking.
Links:
Ascent Fabrications: https://www.ascentfab.com
Ascent Fabrications Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ascentfab/
Ascent Fabrications YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrpYE6G5PkYiQlynwfxOs0w
Fabrication Friday: https://www.youtube.com/@ascentfab/podcasts
More about your host:
Speaker Mike Bolland: https://www.mikebolland.com/
#prosthetic #amputee #prosthetics #amputeelife #prostheticleg #prosthesis #amplife #amputeestrong #amputation #adaptiveathlete #limbloss #disability #disabled #oneleg #amputees #sfxmakeup #abovekneeamputee #prostheticmakeup #belowkneeamputee #sfx #protesis #adaptive #paralympics #specialeffectsmakeup #amputeewoman #prostheticcover #prothese #3dprinter #prusa #impresion3d #prusai3mk3 #3dprintingnerd #3dprinters #3dprint #3dprintable #3dprintedmodels #thingiverse
Watch on YouTube
Listen on Spotify
Stevia Walker joins host Mike Bolland to share her powerful story of resilience after a life-altering car accident that left her with a fused cervical spine and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) in her right hand. After extensive research and consultations, Stevia made the courageous decision to undergo amputation of her hand—with the support of Dr. Stephen Niedermeyer. In this inspiring episode, Stevia reflects on rebuilding her life, from her former career as a hair stylist to her meaningful role today as a Girl Scout leader. She speaks candidly about living with phantom limb pain, her challenges with prosthetics, and how she empowers others by sharing her experiences. As a board member of the Dallas Amputee Network (DAN - https://dallasamputeenetwork.org/), Stevia highlights the nonprofit’s impactful work supporting amputees, caregivers, and families throughout North Texas. Founded in 2002, DAN provides education, peer mentorship, fitness opportunities, and social events like the upcoming Legapalooza fundraiser—all aimed at improving the quality of life for those affected by limb loss.
What does it truly mean to be seen as fully human in a world that often overlooks disability? In this thought-provoking episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland welcomes back Dr. Stephanie W. Cawthon—an acclaimed deaf author, speaker, and researcher—for an honest and insightful conversation about identity, accessibility, and belonging. With ASL interpreters Amanda Ford and Steven Nugent joining, Dr. Cawthon shares the personal and cultural impact of her book Disability is Human, a work that has deeply influenced Mike’s own journey.
What’s the difference between being born with a limb difference and losing a limb later in life? In this episode of We’re Not Stumped, host Mike Bolland (born without a right hand) breaks down the emotional, physical, and social differences between congenital limb loss and adult amputation—two very different starting points that often lead to the same powerful resilience. Mike shares personal experiences, insights from recent guest interviews like Stevia Walker (who became an amputee in 2023), and stories from others who’ve learned to adapt and thrive no matter how their journey began. Whether you’ve lived with a limb difference your whole life, recently became an amputee, or support someone who has—this episode is for you.
Leave A Comment