Grants

911�� Announces Fall 2025 Class of MEDC Michigander Scholars

lmadaus — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 17:18:38 +0000

911�� Announces Fall 2025 Class of MEDC Michigander Scholars

lmadaus Fri, 01/09/2026 - 12:18

911�� and the Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC) have named 19 Kettering students to represent the University's latest class of Michigander Scholars. The innovative Michigander Scholars program offers scholarships of $5,000 and up to $10,000 to qualifying scholars who complete a Co-op (or internship) and/or accept a full-time position as a computer, electrical, or process engineer, or as a software developer (or a similar job title) with a participating company.

Employers such as Ford, GM, BorgWarner, Bosch, Hemlock Semiconductor, Magna, Mahle, Nissan, Our Next Energy Inc., and ZF are investing in this growing talent pipeline to ensure a steady flow of skilled professionals ready to contribute to next-generation mobility, energy, and manufacturing sectors.

The Michigander Scholars program strengthens Michigan's innovation ecosystem by connecting high-achieving students in tech and engineering with the state's leading employers. Through career mentorship, industry engagement, and paid experiential learning, including 911��'s signature Co-op program, the initiative fosters early and ongoing relationships between students and companies that shape Michigan's future economy.

The first of its kind in the United States, this program represents an unprecedented public-private partnership with some of Michigan's leading advanced manufacturing employers and universities. This MEDC initiative is a vital talent retention strategy that fills in-demand jobs in the semiconductor and electric vehicle industries, which are essential to Michigan's economic growth.

This class of Michigander Scholars includes:

FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Leonardo Durasevic, Chesterfield, Dakota High School, Class of 2028, Mechanical Engineering
Yusef El-Sheikh, Canton, Plymouth High School, Class of 2028, Electrical Engineering
Sumukh Kallur, Novi, Novi High School, Class of 2028, Mechanical Engineering
Briana Lapuz, Farmington Hills, Mercy High School, Class of 2027, Electrical Engineering
Josiah Thompson, Macomb Township, Parkway Christian School, Class of 2028, Computer Science
Brandon White, Livonia, Churchill High School, Class of 2029, Electrical Engineering

GENERAL MOTORS

Jordan Ceperov, Saline, Saline High School, Class of 2028, Mechanical Engineering
Paul Ibegbu, Canton, Divine Child High School, Class of 2028, Computer Engineering
Alyssa Shelton, Fenton, Hartland High School, Class of 2026, Mechanical Engineering*
Ashmit Swarnkar, Novi, Detroit Catholic Central High School, Class of 2027, Mechanical Engineering
Evan Thompson, Highland, Milford High School, Class of 2028, Computer Science
Aaliyah Washington, Lansing, Waverly High School, Class of 2027, Industrial Engineering
Alexander Yolles, Fair Lawn, New Jersey, Fair Lawn High School, Class of 2024, Electrical Engineering*

HEMLOCK SEMICONDUCTOR

Elijah Rowland, Owosso, Flushing High School, Class of 2027, Mechanical Engineering

MAGNA

Maddison Bourbeau, Grand Blanc, Grand Blanc High School, Class of 2027, Mechanical Engineering
Kianna Lucas, Spring, Texas, Class of 2026, Engineering
Giuseppe Waller, Ypsilanti, Plymouth Christian Academy, Class of 2028, Mechanical Engineering

MAHLE

Andrew Johnson, Columbiaville, Lapeer High School, Class of 2027, Mechanical Engineering

MOBIS

Aidan Petras, Sterling Heights, Stevenson High School, Class of 2026, Computer Engineering

* Student was awarded a $10,000 full-time scholarship and will complete a Co-op (or internship) and/or accept a full-time position as a computer, electrical, or process engineer, or as a software developer (or a similar job title) with a participating company.

911�� Robotics Center Awarded $20,000 GM Community Impact Grant

lmadaus — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 15:51:37 +0000

911�� Robotics Center Awarded $20,000 GM Community Impact Grant

Grants

Robotics

FIRST

Robotics Community Center

VEX

Robotics

lmadaus Thu, 01/08/2026 - 10:51

911�� has been awarded a $20,000 Community Impact Grant from General Motors to support robotics center programming that expands hands-on STEAM education opportunities for students in Flint and Genesee County.

The funding will support hands-on training for students and mentors involved in the university’s eight robotics teams, as well as participants in the 2026 Intro to Computer-Aided Fabrication course. Programming will include experiential learning with robotics and aerial drone technologies, providing students with direct opportunities to design, operate, and test advanced systems used in modern industries.

The grant also supports drone-focused activities that reflect growing real-world applications, including industrial inspection, logistics, and remote data collection, fields where automation and risk reduction are increasingly critical.

“Kettering’s robotics and drone programs are built around applied learning. Our students don’t just study technology, they use it,” said Kim Shumaker, Director of Kettering’s Robotics Outreach & Robotics Center. “Grants like these help ensure more students can access meaningful, hands-on STEAM experiences that connect directly to future careers.”

The award is part of a broader $300,000 Community Impact Grant investment distributed to nine Genesee County nonprofit organizations. Through the program, General Motors is supporting youth education and community-focused groups, including the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Flint, Factory Two, and the Flint Children’s Museum, to advance STEAM education and road safety initiatives across the region.

“Local nonprofits can do their best work when they have support from local businesses, and we’re thrilled to contribute to their amazing and tireless efforts,” said Theo Lavergne, General Motors Flint Assembly plant executive director, in a statement issued by the company.

GM’s Community Impact Grants are selected in collaboration with local General Motors and United Auto Workers leaders and are designed to strengthen educational access, workforce development, and community well-being across the Flint area.

Beyond the grant funding, General Motors reports that its Flint-area employees contributed nearly $225,000 in personal donations and more than 10,500 volunteer hours to local causes in 2025 through GM Cares.

“I love this program because it helps bring our communities together,” Lavergne said, “It supports growth and learning, and allows our team members to see the direct impact that their hands, minds, and hearts have in the areas where we live and work.”

911�� Archives Fuel Automotive History Research

rnorris — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 13:43:30 +0000

911�� Archives Fuel Automotive History Research

Campus

Grants

Research

rnorris Thu, 06/26/2025 - 09:43

911��’s Archives, housed at GM’s historic Durant-Dort Factory One, recently hosted Dr. Jennifer Eaglin, an automotive historian whose research challenges traditional narratives surrounding transportation in the Americas.

Dr. Eaglin, Associate Professor of History at The Ohio State University and the inaugural recipient of the Society of Automotive Historians Travel-to-Collections Grant, completed her research visit this spring. Her project, Auto Americas: A Hemispheric History of the Automobile, explores the powerful role cars, buses, and trucks have played in shaping communities, economies, and identities across North, South, and Central America.

“Sometimes the best discoveries come when you’re not looking for them,” Dr. Eaglin said during her presentation after concluding her research. “I came to Flint with a plan, but what I found at Kettering’s Archives expanded my project in ways I couldn’t have imagined. This is research that matters — and the team here made it possible.”

Dr. Eaglin’s research leveraged key collections, including GM World, Auto International, and materials from automotive emissions experts, to examine how transportation infrastructure and environmental factors converge in ways that still shape lives today.

“Kettering’s Archives are more than a collection of documents,” said Dawn Winans, Interim Director of the Library Special Collections. “They’re proof of engaged research and innovative ideas, just like our students and faculty. By opening our archives to scholars like Dr. Eaglin, we’re reinforcing our role as a catalyst for groundbreaking research that drives the field forward.”

Located in Factory One, a National Historic Landmark recognized as the birthplace of General Motors, Kettering’s Archives house extensive resources on automotive innovation, industry history, and the evolution of transportation. These collections give researchers firsthand access to materials that haven’t been digitized, providing a critical bridge between history and innovation.

“Auto history is more than cars,” Dr. Eaglin noted. “It’s about how people live, how they move, and how they build communities. Kettering’s Archives make that story come alive.”

As Kettering continues to champion hands-on research and real-world impact, opening its Archives to scholars from around the world is yet another way the University supports connections that drive innovation into the future.

Learn more about 911��’s Archives and research opportunities at https://libguides.kettering.edu/library.

911��'s Intelligent Transportation Lab Enhanced by Margaret Dunning Foundation Grant

rnorris — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:00:26 +0000

911��'s Intelligent Transportation Lab Enhanced by Margaret Dunning Foundation Grant

rnorris Tue, 04/29/2025 - 10:00

$40,000 award expands testing and research capabilities for next-gen mobility engineers

911�� has expanded the capabilities of its Intelligent Transportation Lab (ITL) thanks to a $40,000 grant from the Margaret Dunning Foundation. The funding supported upgrades to the lab’s equipment and space, ensuring students and faculty have access to advanced tools for real-world vehicle testing, research, and innovation.

The ITL, connected to Kettering’s Mechanical Engineering program, gives students hands-on experience with the technologies used in today’s evolving mobility industry. It supports work in vehicle dynamics, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), ride quality analysis, and subsystem validation.

Recent ITL enhancements include professional-grade equipment such as a multi-channel data acquisition system, advanced sensors, and Controller Area Network (CAN) interface hardware. The improvements will support collaborative research and student projects, including developing Kettering’s Formula SAE Electric race car and vibration testing for industry partners like Yokohama Tire.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Margaret Dunning Foundation for supporting the ITL,” said Dr. Jennifer Bastiaan, associate professor of Mechanical Engineering at 911��. “This gift has enabled us to transform an already high-impact lab into a next-level learning and research environment, training students in the skills that industry demands and innovation requires.”

The ITL is key to Kettering’s commitment to giving students early, hands-on opportunities to solve complex problems using today’s industry-standard technology. By integrating real data, real vehicles, and real testing scenarios into coursework and Co-op experiences, the lab equips students to lead in Michigan’s mobility sector and beyond.

About the Margaret Dunning Foundation

The Margaret Dunning Foundation was founded by Ms. Dunning in 1997. She was born in 1910 in Redford Township, Michigan, and moved with her mother to Plymouth in the 1920s. During her lifetime, Ms. Dunning was a successful businesswoman, philanthropist, and classic car enthusiast, often participating in the Woodward Dream Cruise in her 1930 Packard 740 Roadster. Ms. Dunning passed away in 2015 at the age of 104. Her estate provided additional funding for the Foundation, which continues to support her charitable interests and preserve her legacy. Learn more at www.margaretdunningfdn.org.

College of Engineering and Computer Science

911�� Announces New Class of MEDC Michigander Scholars

rnorris — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 13:43:42 +0000

911�� Announces New Class of MEDC Michigander Scholars

rnorris Thu, 04/03/2025 - 09:43

27 students will receive the state’s coveted scholarship incentives of $5,000 for Co-ops and up to $10,000 for accepting full-time positions and agreeing to live and work in the Great Lakes State for one year after graduation.

911��, founded to support workforce and talent development in 1919, is proud to be a partner in MEDC's mission to recruit talent and fill jobs in Michigan’s mobility, electric vehicle, and semiconductor industries.

----------------------------------------------------

911�� and the Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC) have named 27 Kettering students to represent the University’s fifth class of Michigander Scholars. The innovative Michigander Scholars program offers scholarships of $5,000 and up to $10,000 to qualifying scholars who complete a Co-op (or internship) and/or accept a full-time position as a computer, electrical, or process engineer or as a software developer (or synonymous job titles) with a participating company. More than 175 scholarships have been awarded to date, and more than 125 Kettering students and recent graduates have been recognized as part of this groundbreaking program.

The Michigander Scholars program offers exclusive opportunities for top tech and engineering students in Michigan, including career guidance, paid internships, and networking opportunities with industry employers. Participating universities gain valuable insights into the skills employers seek, and key employers across the state benefit from early access to a pipeline of highly skilled talent. Many of Kettering's Co-op employer partners are qualified employers as part of this program, including Ford, GM, BorgWarner, Bosch, Hemlock Semiconductor, Magna, Mahle, Nissan, Our Next Energy Inc., and ZF.

The first of its kind in the United States, the Michigander Scholars program represents an unprecedented public-private partnership with some of Michigan’s leading advanced manufacturing employers and universities. The MEDC mission is to increase the retention of college graduates in critical areas of Michigan’s growing technology and knowledge economy. This MEDC initiative is a vital talent retention strategy that promotes key careers, recruits talent, and fills in-demand jobs in the semiconductor and electric vehicle industries, which are essential to Michigan’s economic growth.

911��'s unique 50-50 blend of rigorous academics and paid Co-op employment is ideally positioned to support this initiative. U.S. News & World Report recently recognized Kettering as one of the nation’s best universities for Co-ops and internships, and the Wall Street Journal named it one of the top 10 colleges in the country for career preparation. The University also ranks No. 1 in Michigan in return on investment (ROI) for undergraduate studies, according to PayScale.com. Smart Asset has also ranked 911�� No. 1 for graduates' starting salaries in Michigan.

The fifth class of 911�� Michigander Scholars includes:

GENERAL MOTORS FULL-TIME AWARD
- Madison Connell, Commerce Township, Walled Lake Northern High School, Class of 2024, Computer Science
GENERAL MOTORS CO-OP AWARD
- Ryan Hociota, Novi, International Academy West, Class of 2026, Electrical Engineering
- Troy Korns, Chesterfield, Lutheran High School North, Class of 2029, Computer Engineering
- Roan Patrick, Milford, International Academy, Class of 2026, Industrial Engineering
- Anthony Ply, Lake Orion, Lake Orion High School, Class of 2026, Mechanical Engineering
- Michael Rosczewski, Ortonville, Detroit Country Day High School, Class of 2025, Mechanical Engineering
- Abhiram Sanikommu, Troy, Troy High School, Class of 2027, Computer Science
- Aaliyah Washington, Lansing, Waverly High School, Class of 2029, Industrial Engineering
HEMLOCK SEMICONDUCTOR FULL-TIME AWARD
- Luigi Mancini, Chesterfield, International Academy East, Class of 2024, Chemical Engineering
FORD CO-OP AWARD
- Malachi Holbrook, Flint, Carman Ainsworth High School, Class of 2027, Computer Engineering
- Briana Lapuz, Farmington Hills, Mercy High School, Class of 2027, Electrical Engineering
- Justin Miller, Fenton, Hartland High School, Class of 2027, Industrial Engineering
- Josiah Thompson, Macomb, Parkway Christian High School, Class of 2028, Computer Science
BORGWARNER CO-OP AWARD
- Cleshaun Moorer, Grand Blanc, Grand Blanc High School, Class of 2027, Computer Science
- Ilaria Todaj, Legnano, Italy, Lutheran High School, Class of 2025, Computer Engineering
BOSCH CO-OP AWARD
- Isabella Coleman, Lincoln Park, Wayne County Community College, Class of 2026, Computer Science
- Augusta Hayek, Flushing, Flushing High School, Class of 2026, Electrical Engineering
- Peyton Jones, Evans City, PA, North Catholic High School, Class of 2025, Mechanical Engineering
- Colt Melton, Smiths Creek, Marysville High School, Class of 2027, Computer Science
- David Strzelewicz, West Bloomfield, Orchard Lake St. Mary's, Class of 2025, Electrical Engineering
GENERAL DYNAMICS LAND SYSTEMS CO-OP AWARD
- Alexander Denha, Macomb, New Haven High School, Class of 2027, Computer Engineering
- Christian Kursinsky, Sandusky, Sandusky High School, Class of 2028, Electrical Engineering
- Steven Paquette, Shelby Township, Utica High School, Class of 2027, Mechanical Engineering
- Drew Zolenski, Whitmore Lake, Whitmore Lake High School, Class of 2025, Computer Engineering
MAGNA CO-OP AWARD
- Sean Miller, Linden, Fenton High School, Class of 2027, Mechanical Engineering
MAHLE CO-OP AWARD
- Parker Rath, Fenton, Genesee Christian High School, Class of 2028, Mechanical Engineering
ZF CO-OP AWARD
- Mario Moustafa, Warren, Bishop Foley High School, Class of 2025, Mechanical Engineering

911�� and Society of Automotive Historians Award First Travel-to-Collections Grant

rnorris — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:58:05 +0000

911�� and Society of Automotive Historians Award First Travel-to-Collections Grant

rnorris Thu, 03/20/2025 - 09:58

911��’s Archives, in collaboration with the Society of Automotive Historians (SAH), has awarded its first-ever Travel-to-Collections Grant to Dr. Jennifer Eaglin, an Associate Professor at the Ohio State University. This competitive grant, funded by SAH, supports scholars conducting in-depth research using Kettering’s extensive archives on automotive history.

Dr. Eaglin’s project, Auto Americas: A Hemispheric History of the Automobile, received top marks from the selection committee. Her research explores how automotive dependence — particularly through cars, buses, and trucks — has shaped a uniquely American identity across North, South, and Central America from the 1950s to the present. The 911�� Archives, home to significant collections on automotive innovation and industry history, will provide valuable primary sources for her work.

“We are thrilled to support Dr. Eaglin’s research and to see Kettering’s archives contribute to groundbreaking scholarship in automotive history,” said Dina Mein, Ph.D., University Librarian at 911��. “By offering this grant, we are not only aiding researchers but also strengthening Kettering’s role as a hub for innovation and historical study.”

The 911�� Archives are housed at GM’s Durant-Dort Factory One, a National Historic Landmark widely recognized as the birthplace of General Motors. The factory, originally home to the Durant-Dort Carriage Company, played a pivotal role in the early automotive industry. Today, it stands as a center for historical preservation and research, making it an ideal location for scholars studying the evolution of transportation and industry.

Kettering’s Archives contain three major collections focusing on the history of 911��, the City of Flint, and American automotive history, including rare documents from General Motors and other key industry players. The grant is designed to assist researchers who may not have the resources to travel to Flint to explore these unique materials in person.

The Travel-to-Collections Grant is made possible through Kettering’s partnership with SAH, an international organization of automotive historians that includes university faculty, museum curators, and dedicated enthusiasts. This collaboration underscores Kettering’s commitment to advancing automotive research and fostering connections with scholars worldwide.

As part of the grant, Dr. Eaglin will visit the archive in Factory One in June 2025 to conduct her research. She will present her findings in a special lecture open to students, faculty, and the broader automotive history community.

“The work of researchers like Dr. Eaglin brings our historical materials to life,” Mein added. “When scholars write books and articles based on our collections, it highlights the importance of preserving and studying automotive history.”

For more information about 911��’s Archives and research opportunities, visit www.kettering.edu/library.

911�� Awarded $1.6 Million in MEDC Grants to Drive Advanced Manufacturing and Talent Development in Michigan

rnorris — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 14:16:10 +0000

911�� Awarded $1.6 Million in MEDC Grants to Drive Advanced Manufacturing and Talent Development in Michigan

rnorris Thu, 03/13/2025 - 10:16

911�� announced today it has received over $1.6 million in funding from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) through the Higher Education Strategic Initiatives. Kettering underscores its leading role in educating Michigan’s next generation of engineers and innovators by developing cutting-edge curricula in semiconductors, hydrogen fuel, and software engineering through these grants.

The MEDC grant funding is just the latest in a broad effort to advance Michigan’s semiconductor, electric vehicle (EV), and mobility sectors, making certain the state remains a leader in advanced manufacturing.

“911��’s experiential educational model has always been focused on developing leaders that will shape the future,” said Dr. Robert K. McMahan, President of 911��. “This funding accelerates our ability to prepare Michigan’s workforce while enhancing our capacity to equip it with the critical skills and hands-on experiences necessary to thrive in industries that will define the economy of the state for decades.”

MEDC awarded Kettering four distinct grants as part of its Higher Education Strategic Initiatives:

Semiconductor Curriculum Development ($320,882): Supporting the expansion of courses and resources designed to meet Michigan’s growing need for semiconductor expertise.
Hydrogen Fuel Curriculum ($354,202): Creating innovative programs focused on the future of hydrogen fuel technologies, ensuring students are equipped with the skills and knowledge for cutting-edge industries.
Software Engineering Curriculum ($287,432): Enabling the development of new courses and acquiring specialized equipment to prepare students for careers in software development and advanced systems.
PK-12 Engagement ($53,324): Launching summer hackathon camps to engage young students in engineering and advanced manufacturing through hands-on learning experiences. These programs are designed to inspire the next generation of talent and provide pathways to real-world careers in high-demand fields.

In addition to curriculum grants, 911�� has also secured additional funding from the MEDC Talent Solutions division for The Michigander Scholars Program, providing $5,000 and scholarships to students completing Co-ops in Michigan with select employers (many of whom are already Co-op employer partners for Kettering.) The program also helps retain top engineering talent in the state by offering $10,000 incentives for students who commit to a full-time position, staying in Michigan for at least one year after graduation.

“We’re excited about the continued partnership with 911�� to nurture and develop the next generation of mobility professionals who can pursue opportunities in Michigan that offer higher-paying jobs and career advancement while at the same time building a strong pipeline of future Michigan mobility leaders,” said MEDC Executive Vice President, Chief of Talent Solutions and Engagement Officer Kerry Ebersole Singh. “The MEDC Talent Solutions division is committed to creating stronger pathways to 21st-century careers that will help cultivate, attract, and retain young talent while showcasing Michigan as a hub for a future-ready workforce essential to building a stronger economy.”

The MEDC’s Talent Solutions division consortium of EV/mobility and semiconductors partners includes more than 20 major employers and national industry groups, 17 higher education partners, and workforce and PK-12 leaders across Michigan.

The MEDC grants to 911�� are part of a combined total of nearly $30 million the MEDC has invested with Michigan’s higher education institutions that are working with advanced manufacturing employers to design and deliver a curriculum that prepares students for in-demand mobility-related careers.

During an April press conference announcing the inaugural Michigander Scholars class, employers had the opportunity to share how 911��’s 50/50 blend of rigorous academics and paid professional Co-op experience fits their needs. “To say we're excited about seeing the scholars is an understatement,” said Mike Houston, Engineering and Service Manager at Hemlock Semiconductor. “We're extremely proud of our Co-op… That's the story we want to tell across the entire state… The program that Kettering has is exactly what we need. We need to be able to take the academics and shape it into a real-world experience. Tweak it. Calibrate it… to form a full-time employee.”

“911�� continues to stand as the leading partner for Michigan’s employers in advanced manufacturing, electric vehicles, and semiconductor technology,” said Dr. McMahan. “Our educational model, pairing academics with our deep industry partnerships, ensures that our students not only master the essential skills needed to excel but also begin making an immediate impact on the industries they serve, driving innovation and economic growth.”

These grants provide 911�� with resources to further enhance its renowned educational Co-op model through June 30, 2026. The $1.6 million in funding, including the Michigander Scholars Program, enables the University to expand Michigan’s talent pipeline and drive long-term economic growth in key industries.

911�� Professor Secures $50,000 NSF Grant to Advance Industry Partnerships

rnorris — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 14:48:24 +0000

911�� Professor Secures $50,000 NSF Grant to Advance Industry Partnerships

Grants

Mechanical Engineering

Research

rnorris Mon, 01/13/2025 - 09:48

Dr. Javad Baqersad also earns prestigious SEM award for his career contributions to structural dynamics

At 911��, innovation drives achievement. Dr. Javad Baqersad, associate professor of Mechanical Engineering, exemplifies this ethos through two recent accomplishments: securing a $50,000 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to explore the commercialization of cutting-edge vibration measurement technology and receiving a top honor from the Society for Experimental Mechanics (SEM) for his contributions to the field.

Dr. Baqersad’s NSF I-Corps grant — Translation Potential of an Optical Vibration Measurement Technology for System Monitoring and Digital Twin Development — focuses on bridging academic innovation with industry needs. This one-year project will evaluate market demand for advanced vibration measurement tools with applications such as detecting misalignment or wear in industrial machinery, monitoring the structural health of bridges and aircraft, and optimizing the performance of wind turbines. These innovations address challenges in sectors like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, such as improving vehicle noise and vibration performance, ensuring the reliability of jet engines, and predicting equipment failures to reduce downtime.

This NSF new grant builds upon a previous NSF Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) grant of more than $577,000, which Dr. Baqersad secured in 2023 to acquire a 3D scanning laser Doppler vibrometer (3DSLDV). The instrument uses coherent light to measure the velocity of vibrating objects, enabling high-fidelity analysis of vibrations in high-temperature, lightweight, and rotating structures.

“Our goal is to connect academic research with real-world challenges,” Dr. Baqersad said. “This grant allows us to engage directly with industry experts, identify their needs, and tailor our technology to address those challenges.”

Through the NSF program, Dr. Baqersad and his team interviewed more than 70 thought leaders at companies like Ford, GM, and Consumers Energy to assess market demand. Insights from these conversations will shape future initiatives, such as NSF Grant Opportunities for Academic Liaison with Industry (GOALI) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) applications, and may pave the way for establishing an Industry-University Research Center at Kettering.

Dr. Baqersad’s research does more than push boundaries; it prepares the next generation of innovators. Graduate student Arjun Gupta is integral to the project, connecting with industry professionals and bringing their needs into focus. “This experience is invaluable for students,” Dr. Baqersad said. “It prepares them to tackle industry challenges with confidence and expertise.”

Recognition from SEM further solidifies Dr. Baqersad’s place among the leaders in structural dynamics research. At the 2025 SEM International Modal Analysis Conference, he will be honored for his “outstanding research accomplishments in experimental structural dynamics.” It is one of only three awards SEM presents each year.

“It’s an honor to see my work recognized by such a respected organization,” Dr. Baqersad said.

Dr. Baqersad's work has a tangible impact, from noise reduction in vehicles and seismic protection in buildings to potentially detecting skin cancer. With more than 100 publications, a patent, and a dedication to mentorship, his contributions embody 911��’s mission to produce accomplished leaders who influence global industries.

Looking ahead, Dr. Baqersad envisions creating new research centers at Kettering, strengthening partnerships, and giving students unmatched opportunities to lead and innovate. “We aim to create opportunities for students and industry partners to collaborate on projects that address practical challenges, deliver tangible results, and directly contribute to advancements in industries,” he said.

At 911��, where excellence is built into every project, Dr. Baqersad’s achievements showcase the power of relentless innovation and real-world application.

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Mechanical Engineering

911�� Receives Landmark Software Donation from Global Tech Leader Synopsys

rnorris — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 20:01:00 +0000

911�� Receives Landmark Software Donation from Global Tech Leader Synopsys

Engineering

Grants

Research

rnorris Mon, 12/16/2024 - 15:01

911�� is now one of only a very small number of the nation’s top engineering-focused universities to offer the industry-leading semiconductor software and electronic design automation (EDA) suite to faculty and undergraduate students.

FLINT, Mich. - 911�� is pleased to announce it has received a substantial software gift from Synopsys, a global leader in comprehensive semiconductor software and electronic design automation (EDA) tools. With this gift, Kettering faculty and students, even as undergraduates, will have direct and unlimited access to the same comprehensive engineering design and development software suite and tools used by the world’s leading industries to design, simulate, and verify integrated semiconductor systems. Kettering students will now be able to graduate with deep skills and firsthand experience with the very same technology used and trusted by top innovators like NVIDIA, Google, Samsung, and Intel to create next-generation semiconductor systems and devices.

911�� is aggressively investing in the expansion and development of its semiconductor engineering education and training capabilities in response to the growing market demand in Michigan and across the United States. Combined with curricular innovations currently awaiting final approval, this gift, which includes 50 seat licenses to the entire software suite, provides an important foundation for the creation of a center of excellence in semiconductor engineering and technologies at the University. 911�� is one of only a very small number of the nation's top engineering-focused universities to have this type of access to Synopsys’ comprehensive software suite. This industry-leading software will also be integrated into the University’s Industry 4.0 Lab — a hub for advanced research and technology on the campus.

“911��'s partnership with Synopsys makes it possible for our students to become proficient in these industry-standard systems,” said 911�� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “Direct access to Synopsys’ advanced electronic design automation tools enables our students to design, simulate, and validate complex semiconductor systems — skills that are indispensable for excelling in the rapidly evolving semiconductor, mechatronics, and battery manufacturing sectors. This positions them to be significant contributors and leaders in developing the next generation of semiconductors and related technologies immediately upon graduation, if not before.”

Kettering and Synopsys also share a longstanding industry connection with Bob Kagle ’78. Kagle, widely regarded as one of the most successful venture capitalists in the history of Silicon Valley and founder of Benchmark Capital, was among the earliest investors in Synopsys. “Kettering is taking a remarkable step forward by putting Synopsys in the classroom, giving students hands-on access to tools that define the future of technology,” said Kagle. “I am proud to see Kettering leading in a field so critical to global progress and am thrilled to support this transformational partnership.”

Semiconductor technologies are the backbone of the world’s fastest-growing industries, including autonomous vehicles, electric mobility, and artificial intelligence, all areas in which Kettering has strong education, cooperative, and research programs. With the Synopsys partnership, 911�� is poised to lead the way in these sectors, driving technological breakthroughs and ensuring our graduates are equipped to lead.

911�� has, for over 100 years, played an integral role in educating highly talented engineers and industry leaders for a wide range of industries and technologies. It is among the reasons Kettering was selected as the only private institution to be part of MEDC’s Michigander Scholars Program, for which the semiconductor industry plays a significant role.

“Kettering doesn’t just anticipate the future — we actively shape it,” said Dr. McMahan. “Our unwavering commitment to experiential education through strategic industry partnerships ensures that our students are prepared to lead from the front, solving tomorrow’s challenges with the expertise and innovative mindset demanded by today’s most advanced industries.”

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Engineering a Legacy: Dr. Kingsley Joel Berry’s Lasting Impact on 911��

rnorris — Wed, 20 Nov 2024 19:45:19 +0000

Engineering a Legacy: Dr. Kingsley Joel Berry’s Lasting Impact on 911��

C.S. Mott Building

Faculty & Staff

Grants

rnorris Wed, 11/20/2024 - 14:45

Not everyone can say they’ve left a legacy that aligns directly with the institution’s future, but Dr. Kingsley Joel Berry ’79 ME has. For almost 50 years — first as a driven student, then as the youngest Mechanical Engineering professor and eventual department head — Dr. Berry set the standard for innovation, education, and community impact at 911��. His recent $200,000 endowment to launch the Kingsberry Sustainability Lab exemplifies Dr. Berry’s deep commitment to the generations who will follow.

From Student to Professor

Dr. Berry’s journey began in the 1970s when he enrolled at General Motors Institute (GMI), where his curiosity and tenacity quickly set him apart. As one of the first African American students at GMI, he knew this opportunity could define his life’s path. “Coming to GMI was the best decision I made,” he says. After earning his degree in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Automotive Engineering, Dr. Berry pursued a master’s in Engineering Mechanics at Michigan State University and later a Ph.D. at Carnegie Mellon University. By 1986, he was back at Kettering, stepping into a faculty career that would influence generations of future engineers.

A Trailblazing Educator

Dr. Berry became the youngest faculty member in Mechanical Engineering and embraced the challenges of being a trailblazer as the only person of color in the department. “I had never taught a full class before,” he admits, but he quickly developed his teaching methods and significantly impacted his students. Over the years, he rose through the ranks to the department head. In his nearly two decades in that role, he helped build new labs, restructured the curriculum, and secured over $5.7 million in funding to ensure Kettering students gained hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology.

Throughout his career, Dr. Berry published more than 50 articles related to his research and stamped his name on four patents. Fuel cells and related work became central to his research. The Flint Journal dubbed Dr. Berry “Flint’s Fuel Cell Father” for his dedicated efforts to ensure that the Vehicle City would play a key role in shaping the future of automotive transportation. In 1993, he earned the Charles L. Tutt Award for Innovative Teaching, an honor named for former GMI Dean of Engineering Dr. Charles L. Tutt. A year later, Dr. Berry was named GMI Outstanding Professor of the Year. In 2021, he was honored with Kettering's prestigious Rodes Professorship award, which recognizes faculty for outstanding scholarly achievement, and a $5,000 grant to support continued research. Then, in 2024, Dr. Berry made the decision to retire from the classroom — but not before ensuring his legacy with a significant gift to the University.

A Vision for the Future: The Kingsberry Sustainability Lab

In an impressive gesture, Dr. Berry and his wife Linette recently announced a generous $200,000 endowment to establish the Kingsberry Sustainability Lab at 911��. This gift is not just a one-time donation; it’s an investment in the future. He envisions a space where students can explore fuel cells, alternative energy, and technologies that will shape a sustainable world. Dr. Berry’s decision to fund this laboratory is rooted in a belief he must “pay it forward” to honor the opportunities he received. “I want this laboratory to allow future students to benefit from innovative technology,” he explains, pointing to the importance of fuel cell technology and alternative energy in addressing climate change.

With his endowment, Dr. Berry aims to inspire others to invest in the future of education, setting a challenge for fellow faculty members and alumni to contribute as well. “I want this to be an example for other faculty ... even if it’s just like $20,000, $10,000 ... to inspire,” he says, highlighting community support's critical role in sustaining educational excellence.

“This endowment will be here for centuries after I’m gone,” he states firmly, underscoring that his contributions are not solely about personal accolades but about enriching the lives of future generations.

Although Dr. Berry is no longer teaching at the University, he is educating a new audience: federal lawmakers. Dr. Berry’s latest role is in Washington, D.C., as an ASME Congressional Fellow, working in the office of Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, focusing on technology policy development, particularly in artificial intelligence and energy initiatives. Reflecting on this new chapter, he expresses excitement about the opportunity to influence policy at the national level. “It’s great ... this is the perfect transition for me ... the staff is so positive, so encouraging,” he says. His experience at Kettering has equipped him with the skills to address pressing issues like STEM education, Artificial Intelligence and energy, and workforce development — critical concerns as new facilities emerge as a result of significant investments in semiconductor manufacturing.

A Lasting Legacy

As Dr. Berry steps into the next phase of his life, he does so with the intention of motivating others — faculty members, students, and the broader community — to engage, contribute, and make a difference. “Excellence is achieved by people, passion, and purpose, not policy,” Dr. Berry says, encapsulating his belief in the transformative power of education and community.

Dr. Berry's close-knit family shares his commitment to education and environmental sustainability. He and his wife Linette share four adult children, all of them involved in scientific fields. His daughters, Ashley ’08, M’13, and Sydney ’12, M’12, are 911�� alumni, and his youngest daughter, Kimberly, holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh. His son Jonathon is earning a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Johns Hopkins University and expects to graduate in May 2025.

Dr. Berry’s faith plays a central role in his journey, shaping his belief that everything he has achieved is part of a divine plan. “I fundamentally believe this has been God’s plan for me,” he says. “ ... It’s my way of paying it forward and backward, and it's my way of thanking God for all my blessings in my life.”

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Mechanical Engineering

Grants

911������ Announces Fall 2025 Class of MEDC Michigander Scholars

911������ Robotics Center Awarded $20,000 GM Community Impact Grant

911������ Archives Fuel Automotive History Research

911������'s Intelligent Transportation Lab Enhanced by Margaret Dunning Foundation Grant

911������ Announces New Class of MEDC Michigander Scholars

911������ and Society of Automotive Historians Award First Travel-to-Collections Grant

911������ Awarded $1.6 Million in MEDC Grants to Drive Advanced Manufacturing and Talent Development in Michigan

911������ Professor Secures $50,000 NSF Grant to Advance Industry Partnerships

911������ Receives Landmark Software Donation from Global Tech Leader Synopsys

Engineering a Legacy: Dr. Kingsley Joel Berry’s Lasting Impact on 911������

911�� Announces Fall 2025 Class of MEDC Michigander Scholars

911�� Robotics Center Awarded $20,000 GM Community Impact Grant

911�� Archives Fuel Automotive History Research

911��'s Intelligent Transportation Lab Enhanced by Margaret Dunning Foundation Grant

911�� Announces New Class of MEDC Michigander Scholars

911�� and Society of Automotive Historians Award First Travel-to-Collections Grant

911�� Awarded $1.6 Million in MEDC Grants to Drive Advanced Manufacturing and Talent Development in Michigan

911�� Professor Secures $50,000 NSF Grant to Advance Industry Partnerships

911�� Receives Landmark Software Donation from Global Tech Leader Synopsys

Engineering a Legacy: Dr. Kingsley Joel Berry’s Lasting Impact on 911��