Meet William LeFaivre, the young inventor who designed a sensor system to help skiers detect their alignment, earned a U.S. patent and then began developing medical-support technology

William LeFaivre discovered an opportunity for invention while learning to ski as a third grader. Struggling to keep his skis parallel, he developed Ski Sense, a sensor network that uses Bluetooth technology, lights, and a helmet vibrator to provide skiers with real-time alignment feedback. The invention evolved through testing, redesigns, and solutions to challenges involving sensor positioning and snow build-up. William ultimately received U.S. Patent 11,724,168 B1 on August 15, 2023, with pro bono support from WilmerHale. After Ski Sense, he began developing virtual reality goggles intended to help children with sensory-processing disorders feel more comfortable during vital-sign checks by doctors.