The wizSTEM program was founded by Dr. Christopher Hess, a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in Fairfax, Virginia. Years of experience in both Trauma and Reconstructive work give Dr. Hess a strong appreciation for the impact of research and development upon the lives of real people.

When ordinary people become Cancer patients, burn survivors or trauma victims, the need for accurate diagnosis, treatment and recovery is paramount. When Dr. Hess works with patients to build customized treatment and care plans, state-of-the-art tools, world-class education and deep experience result in the best possible experience and outcomes for patients. 

Dr. Hess is highly experienced in the field of plastic surgery, and a leader in both highly intricate reconstructive procedures and cosmetic surgery. He is a staff plastic surgeon at the INOVA Hospitals in Fairfax, Fair Oaks, and Loudoun, as well as Prince William Hospital and Reston Hospital Center, and is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, before spending six years in training in the Integrated Plastic Surgery Program at Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C..

Dr. Hess lives with his wife, Shelly, and their two children in Northern Virginia. Before becoming a plastic surgeon, Dr. Hess was a successful professional ballet dancer with the Pennsylvania Ballet, Richmond Ballet, and Milwaukee Ballet. He is an active triathlete and a committed activist and philanthropist with local and national organizations working to address STEM-related challenges.

STEM matters.