University of Minnesota launches state’s first graduate credential in electrification engineering
The Technological Leadership Institute (TLI) at the University of Minnesota is collaborating with Bloomington-based Thermo King, a leader in transport temperature control solutions, to launch the state’s first ever graduate credential in electrification engineering.
The program is driven by industry demand for a robust talent pipeline in fields including electrical, mechanical and systems engineering, renewable energy policy, and energy conversion and storage. Launching in fall 2023, it will provide students a comprehensive look at electrification trends and state-of-the-art technologies and a graduate certificate in electrification engineering.
“This partnership is a huge win both for TLI and Thermo King,” said Travis Thul, senior fellow and director of operations for TLI. “The evolution from fossil fuel-driven systems to hybrid and all electric systems is happening very quickly and the biggest challenge we face is having enough professionals trained and ready to do the needed work. Thermo King has always been committed to sustainability in its system design and we look forward to working closely with them in building this much-needed program.”
“These courses will provide students a unique opportunity to advance the development of electrified systems and an up-close look at how companies are pursuing electrification,” said Aftab Khan, vice president of engineering and technology for Thermo King Americas. “As the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and other transportation funding continues to accelerate demand for transitioning away from fossil-fuel systems to hybrid and fully electric designs, the knowledge these students will gain will be invaluable. We’re proud to partner with the University of Minnesota to develop these courses and build a world-class electrification workforce.”
Thermo King, along with Polaris, MTS Inc., the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Zeus Electric Chassis Inc., Wabtec Corp. and the St. Anthony Falls Laboratory will support curriculum development, site visits and direct contact between students and industry. The program will also offer a deep dive into the engineering and scientific components needed to realize the efficiency, cost savings and environmental benefits associated with electric infrastructure.