Tech education grant propels WMU and state to forefront of high tech innovation, research, and training

Tech education grant propels WMU in high-tech education
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  • Tech education grant drives WMU and state forward in high tech education, research, and training
  • Western Michigan University awarded grant for research and career development in mobility industry
  • Grant supports Center for Advanced Vehicle Design and Simulation (CAViDS) led by Dr. Claudia Fajardo-Hansford
  • Industry and community collaborators include Dana Incorporated, Eaton, The Lubrizol Corporation, and Michigan Works! Southwest
  • Funding from Mobility Public-Private Partnership & Programming Grant supports over 200 students in mobility careers

Mobility Grant Strengthens Tech Education at WMU

In a significant move towards advancing high tech education, research, and training, Western Michigan University (WMU) has been selected as one of the recipients of a strategic grant aimed at positioning Michigan as a leader in the mobility industry. The grant, announced by Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II and the Office for Future Mobility and Electrification, underscores the state’s commitment to fostering innovation and expertise in cutting-edge technologies.

Empowering Research and Training at CAViDS

The grant awarded to WMU specifically targets the Center for Advanced Vehicle Design and Simulation (CAViDS), a hub of excellence led by Dr. Claudia Fajardo-Hansford, a distinguished professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering. Alongside Dr. John Bair and Dr. Parviz Merati, Dr. Fajardo-Hansford spearheads initiatives that bridge the gap between academia and industry, focusing on developing groundbreaking solutions with far-reaching economic, social, and environmental implications.

As the principal investigator on the grant, Dr. Fajardo-Hansford highlights the pivotal role of CAViDS in pioneering research and practical applications in the mobility sector. The center’s current endeavors include the development of specialized equipment for testing gears at high rotational speeds, a critical component in the realm of electric vehicle drivetrains. Moreover, CAViDS is actively engaged in creating predictive models to anticipate gear failure under such conditions, underscoring its commitment to both theoretical advancements and real-world impact.

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Fostering Talent and Innovation in Mobility

The $775,000 grant, allocated through the Mobility Public-Private Partnership & Programming (MP4) initiative, is a testament to the collaborative efforts between academia, industry partners, and government agencies in nurturing talent and fostering innovation. WMU, alongside the University of Michigan and Michigan Technological University, will utilize the funding to support over 200 students pursuing careers in mobility, innovation electrification, and infrastructure development.

Michigan’s strong focus on cultivating a skilled workforce capable of driving future advancements in technology is evident in Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist’s remarks. Emphasizing the state’s dedication to creating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and hands-on learning experiences, Gilchrist underscores the pivotal role of higher education institutions in shaping the future landscape of the automotive, battery, and tech industries.

Charting a Path Towards Technological Excellence

The grant awarded to WMU serves as a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence in technological education and research. By fostering collaborative partnerships with industry leaders such as Dana Incorporated, Eaton, and The Lubrizol Corporation, WMU is at the forefront of shaping the next generation of engineers and innovators in the mobility sector.

As Michigan solidifies its position as a global hub for technological innovation, WMU’s initiatives supported by the mobility grant exemplify the transformative impact of strategic investments in education, research, and workforce development. By equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, WMU is not only driving its own success but also contributing to Michigan’s emergence as a leader in high tech education and innovation.

Links to additional Resources: 1. https://www.michigan.gov/ 2. https://www.michiganbusiness.org/ 3. https://www.michigan.org/
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