Undergraduate

See It, Trust It: How Dragster World Champion Evan Muchler is Racing Beyond Juniors

lmadaus — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 15:01:01 +0000

See It, Trust It: How Dragster World Champion Evan Muchler is Racing Beyond Juniors

lmadaus Thu, 11/13/2025 - 10:01

For 51Ʒ�� sophomore Evan Muchler ’28, racing isn’t just a passion. It’s a family tradition. His grandfather ran a ’69 Opel GT, a car now being rebuilt with Evan’s help. His father had also raced in the Super Gas class when he was sixteen, later moving into the No Box/Modified class for most of his career. Even Mulcher’s older sister has taken turns behind the wheel.

That foundation shaped him into the 2024 WDRA Summit Junior Dragster World Champion.

The win didn’t come easy. The year before, Muchler finished second at the same event, an outcome that stuck with him. “As soon as I lost in the final in 2023, I was already thinking about how close I was and how I had the most potential out of everyone to make it back next year,” he said.

This year, Muchler shifted gears. Aging out of junior dragsters, he stepped into a different world: No Box racing in his dad’s 1994 Chevrolet S10.

The move wasn’t simple: a different vehicle, a different class and a steep learning curve. Muchler contrasted juniors and No Box racing this way: "In juniors, it's simple enough for kids. Cars run nearly identical speeds, and most of the time, kids are still learning basic things about the sport. In No Box, almost everyone you race knows the same things you do, and is just as consistent as you. It's harder to get them to make mistakes or perform better than them consistently."

Muchler is often the youngest in the lanes, lining up against seasoned No Box and Sportsman world champions. “The competition isn’t just tougher,” he said. “Some of these are drivers I grew up watching, and now I get to race them.”

This new challenge was as much a mental exercise as a physical one. The goal: achieve the lowest possible reaction time without “going red,” or leaving the line before the green light and earning an instant disqualification. He also had to run as close as possible to his dialed-in number, read his opponent’s closing speed, and decide in fractions of a second whether to push for the finish line or ease off to stay within his time.

As Muchler puts it, “See it. Trust it.”

“I don’t have to think about a lot of those things anymore. It’s second nature after 11 years of racing,” he added. “From reaction time to knowing if I’ll hit the number I said I would, the repetition pays off. That’s why the time trial in the morning is so important, to see what the track is like and what the weather might do.”

That blend of preparation, precision, and split-second decision-making is what brought Muchler to 51Ʒ��. “The reason why I’m studying mechanical engineering is because of drag racing,” he said. “If I plan on drag racing for a lot longer, then I need to know how things work with my race cars and how to fix them.”

The connection runs both ways. As a sophomore, Muchler is just beginning his coursework in engines and systems, but he already sees how those lessons will deepen his understanding of the machines he races. “I’ve learned more about my car in the last year than in all the years before,” he said. “And as I start more engineering courses at 51Ʒ��, I’m excited to take that even further.”

Muchler has already made history, but he’s hungry for more. The goal is to win in No Box, then chase bigger stages, all while carrying on the Muchler family tradition: going fast.

Engineering (BSE)

Mechanical Engineering

51Ʒ�� Cleared to Launch Nation’s First Accelerated Semiconductor Degree

lmadaus — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 13:19:34 +0000

51Ʒ�� Cleared to Launch Nation’s First Accelerated Semiconductor Degree

lmadaus Mon, 07/28/2025 - 09:19

51Ʒ�� has received formal approval from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) to offer its Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Semiconductor Materials and Devices, officially advancing one of the first high-intensity undergraduate programs of its kind in the nation.

The HLC’s Institutional Actions Council approved the program, affirming 51Ʒ��’s request to deliver the degree in an accelerated format, allowing students to complete the full degree in as few as three years. The program is designed to address urgent national workforce needs by advancing students on a more focused path through a rigorous, Co-op-integrated curriculum.

“We are directly responding to national and industry needs,” said Dr. James Zhang, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “51Ʒ�� has a long history of adapting education to align with industry demands, and this degree exemplifies that commitment. By combining an accelerated curriculum with deep Co-op engagement, we are preparing students for high-impact careers in a field that is critical to national security and technological innovation.”

The HLC approval follows growing state and national attention around semiconductor education and workforce development needs. During a May visit to 51Ʒ��’s GM Mobility Research Center, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer underscored the importance of building a skilled talent pipeline to support advanced manufacturing, specifically a semiconductor “Fab.”

“Right now, there’s an ongoing race to mine the minerals, make the components, and assemble the products the world will need for decades to come,” Whitmer said. “Michigan is well-positioned to lead this race, but we need to use every resource we have in order to win.”

The program approval is also a reflection of 51Ʒ��’s institutional strength and commitment to academic excellence. In 2024, the Higher Learning Commission reaffirmed 51Ʒ��’s ten-year institutional accreditation with a perfect scorecard.

“51Ʒ��’s educational model was built for industry, and the design of our new bachelor’s degree in semiconductors is a natural extension of that legacy,” said 51Ʒ�� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “This is the first accelerated STEM degree of its kind and a high-intensity path designed to prepare students to lead in the semiconductor revolution. It provides students an opportunity to master the science and engineering of semiconductors faster while also preserving the deep industry engagement that defines a 51Ʒ�� education.”

The program is structured to align with ABET accreditation standards and is rooted in 51Ʒ��’s long-standing model of integrating rigorous academics with real-world Co-op learning. Students will be able to apply to this program beginning August 8, 2025. As the semiconductor industry continues to grow and evolve, 51Ʒ��’s newest degree ensures students are not only ready to enter the field — they’re ready to lead it.

For more program information, visit the Semiconductor Materials and Devices program page or the program announcement page.

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Chemical Engineering

Engineering (BSE)

Built to Break the Mold: KUdos Wins Innovate Award at VEX Worlds

rnorris — Thu, 29 May 2025 14:30:50 +0000

Built to Break the Mold: KUdos Wins Innovate Award at VEX Worlds

Competition Teams

Combat Robotics

Robotics

Robotics Community Center

VEX

Undergraduate

rnorris Thu, 05/29/2025 - 10:30

Combining ingenuity, bold strategy, and cross-league collaboration, 51Ʒ��’s robotics team stands out on the global stage.

At 51Ʒ��, students don’t wait to build the future — they engineer it now. That mindset powered KUdos, 51Ʒ��’s VEX U robotics team, to win the Innovate Award at the 2025 VEX Robotics World Championship in Dallas.

The award recognizes teams whose engineering approach challenges convention and advances the game. KUdos delivered on both.

“We came up with a strategy that had never been done before in VEX history,” said Andrew Bolthouse ’27, an engineering major with a specialization in mechatronics systems from Hudsonville, Michigan. “Our robots, Rafiki and Simba, connect at the start of the match and stay joined the entire time. That decision shaped everything.”

Instead of focusing on scoring rings, the team prioritized maximum elevation. The KUdos climbing system allowed Rafiki and Simba to scale anywhere on the field, even on top of other game elements, as long as they touched the ladder. That move gave KUdos a competitive edge that other teams couldn’t match.

“We really just focused on ways to win without caring what our opponents did and without scoring a ton of rings,” said Connor O’Keefe ‘25, the Strategy Lead for the team.

“We knew the points for a top-tier climb were so high that if we could pull it off consistently, we’d force other teams to adjust to us,” Bolthouse said. “And they did.”

What made the KUdos win even more impressive was the diversity of experience behind the build. The team includes alumni from VEX, FIRST Robotics, and Square One, combining distinct competition mindsets into a single, high-performing unit.

“It’s rare to see a team bring together students from three different robotics leagues and have them mesh so well,” said Kim Shumaker, Director of the Robotics Center & Robotics Outreach at 51Ʒ��. “That kind of collaboration is what sets KUdos apart. They’re not just building for competition — they’re building on each other’s strengths.”

Many KUdos team members come from out of state, drawn to 51Ʒ�� by its robotics culture and its 50/50 rigorous academic and paid professional Co-op program. Connor O'Keefe ‘25, a computer science major, hails from Vancouver, WA. He spends his Co-op terms in Troy, MI, working at MAHLE. Nathan Nguyen ‘26, a mechanical engineering major from Cypress, CA, made the decision to complete his Co-op assignment closer to home at RadiaBeam in Santa Monica, CA. Katee Callicutt ‘27, a mechanical engineering major, found Co-op work in her hometown of Greenville, SC, at Magna Seating on its BMW account. Bolthouse credits his Co-op with helping him understand the value of documentation and version control.

“What I’ve learned on the job, I’ve brought back to the team,” Bolthouse said. “Every time we made a change to the robot, I took photos, tracked updates, and kept our process transparent. That discipline made us stronger.”

Throughout the season, the team met virtually while split between school and work terms and collaborated on CAD and documentation using tools like Onshape and Google Docs. The team’s engineering notebook — another competition component — was the product of real teamwork.

“We like to say: two sections, one team,” said Callicutt. “We can pass off what we’re doing with the robot and know confidently that our teammates on the other section are going to do what they need to do.”

“My proudest moment was when Bob Mimlitch, the co-founder of VEX Robotics, stopped by our booth,” Bolthouse added. “He took photos of our robot, asked questions, and told us how impressed he was with our approach. That made it all worth it.”

As KUdos looks ahead to future seasons, the vision is clear: keep pushing, keep climbing — and maybe one day, take the world title.

“We’re proud of what we built,” Bolthouse said. “But we’re not done.”

Dr. McMahan Explores the Benefits of 51Ʒ�� 50/50 Co-op Model with The TechEd Podcast

rnorris — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 14:00:11 +0000

Dr. McMahan Explores the Benefits of 51Ʒ�� 50/50 Co-op Model with The TechEd Podcast

Co-op

Faculty & Staff

Undergraduate

rnorris Wed, 04/16/2025 - 10:00

In this episode of The TechEd Podcast, 51Ʒ�� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan challenges the status quo and offers a workforce-driven vision for higher education. With a background in science policy, venture capital, and university leadership, Dr. McMahan explains why most institutions are falling behind — and how 51Ʒ��’s 50/50 Co-op model keeps students ahead.

From earning $75,000 or more before graduation to developing skills in AI, sustainability, and mobility, Dr. McMahan shares how 51Ʒ�� builds graduates who are ready to lead, starting now.

Listen to the full episode.

51Ʒ�� Senior Gains Competitive Edge with Cutting-Edge Robotic Cell

rnorris — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 14:39:42 +0000

51Ʒ�� Senior Gains Competitive Edge with Cutting-Edge Robotic Cell

Electrical Engineering

Undergraduate

rnorris Fri, 04/11/2025 - 10:39

For 51Ʒ�� senior Scotty Grunwald ’26, an electrical engineering major from Riverview, Michigan, engineering has always been about more than theory — it’s about building real solutions. When he encountered the University’s newest robotic cell, he gained another opportunity to work hands-on with 51Ʒ��’s state-of-the-art robotic system, built in collaboration with Patti Engineering, Mitsubishi Electric, and Keyence Corporation.

“This was my first real attempt at a full automation system,” Grunwald said. “It was a lot harder than it looks on paper, but that’s what made it so valuable.”

The robotic cell, installed in 51Ʒ��’s engineering lab, gives students direct experience in programming and debugging industrial automation. Featuring an industrial robot and a collaborative robot, the cell performs pick-and-place operations, complete with a 3D vision system and industrial robot for unstructured material arrival, as well as the collaborative robot and a stationary camera for inspection. A flexible code base allows students to modify programming and test their solutions while safety features remain locked in place. The result is a hands-on learning tool that mirrors state-of-the-art challenges met with the precision of real-world manufacturing automation.

“Our students want to work on things that are meaningful,” said 51Ʒ�� lecturer Andrew Watchorn. “This system puts cutting-edge automation technology in front of them, allowing them to see the impact of their problem-solving in real-time. That hands-on experience builds deep expertise — the kind that sets 51Ʒ�� graduates apart in industry.”

The vision for the robotic cell began with Sam Hoff ’90, CEO of Patti Engineering. As a 51Ʒ�� alumnus, Hoff knows firsthand the power of hands-on education and saw an opportunity to give students an advantage in automation and robotics. He approached Mitsubishi Electric with the idea, and together with Keyence, BorgWarner, and 51Ʒ�� faculty, they brought the concept to life.

“We are proud to support 51Ʒ��’s engineering students by providing this state-of-the-art robotic cell,” Hoff said. “This tool will offer invaluable practical experience and help equip students with the skills necessary for success in the rapidly evolving field of robotics and automation.”

For Grunwald, the experience was transformative. Although his early interests leaned toward circuit design and programming, working with the robotic cell changed how he thought about automation.

“This project definitely gave me an edge in the job market,” he said. “I can say, ‘I’ve worked with Mitsubishi PLCs before. I’ve programmed Mitsubishi robots.’ Even working with HMIs [human-machine interfaces] — it all adds to my portfolio and sets me apart.”

Few students outside of 51Ʒ�� gain that competitive edge. Grunwald frequently compares notes with friends from other universities, many of whom lack access to industrial-grade automation systems.

“None of them really have experience with anything purely automation-based,” he said. “They might have a small robot in a lab, but nothing like this — nothing that could go straight into an industrial environment.”

College of Engineering and Computer Science

51Ʒ�� Announces New Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Semiconductor Materials and Devices

rnorris — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 13:18:45 +0000

51Ʒ�� Announces New Accelerated Bachelor’s Degree in Semiconductor Materials and Devices

Campus

Undergraduate

rnorris Wed, 03/12/2025 - 09:18

Meeting the Urgent Demand for Semiconductor Talent with a High-Intensity, Industry-Focused Program

51Ʒ�� is launching an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Semiconductor Materials and Devices, an industry-driven program designed for students ready to lead in the rapidly evolving semiconductor industry. Built for those who thrive in demanding, hands-on environments, this program maintains 51Ʒ��’s high academic standards while delivering an efficient, immersive path to industry leadership.

A Future-Focused Degree

The semiconductor industry is at a turning point. Every modern technology — from smartphones to medical devices, electric vehicles to national defense systems — relies on semiconductors. Yet, the U.S. faces a critical shortage of engineers and scientists with the expertise to power the industry’s next chapter.

With global semiconductor supply chains under strain and the CHIPS and Science Act injecting billions into reshoring semiconductor manufacturing, the demand for highly skilled semiconductor professionals is skyrocketing. Industry leaders predict tens of thousands of new, high-paying jobs will emerge in the coming years, yet there aren’t enough trained experts to fill them.

That’s where 51Ʒ�� comes in.

“51Ʒ��’s educational model was built for industry, and the design of our new bachelor’s degree in semiconductors is a natural extension of that legacy,” said 51Ʒ�� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan. “This is the first accelerated STEM degree of its kind and a high-intensity path designed to prepare students to lead in the semiconductor revolution. It provides students an opportunity to master the science and engineering of semiconductors faster while also preserving the deep industry engagement that defines a 51Ʒ�� education.”

A Workforce Solution for a Critical Industry

Semiconductors are often called the “brains” of modern technology. They are at the heart of advancements in AI, automotive automation, telecommunications, aerospace, and renewable energy. Without a robust semiconductor workforce, innovation stalls.

51Ʒ��’s new program directly addresses this challenge, preparing students to:

● Engineer the future of microelectronics – Mastering materials synthesis, quantum physics, photonics, and semiconductor fabrication.

● Drive U.S. semiconductor manufacturing forward – Learning from industry-aligned faculty with expertise in materials science, optoelectronics, and solid-state physics.

● Enter the workforce faster – Completing an intensive 115-credit curriculum in less than four years with built-in Co-op industry experience at leading semiconductor and advanced manufacturing companies.

Key Program Features: Built for Impact

● Fast track without shortcuts – A full-scale curriculum covering semiconductor materials, devices, and fabrication delivered in a high-intensity, industry-focused format.

● Industry-integrated learning – Four required Co-op work terms provide hands-on, paid experience with semiconductor, materials, and advanced manufacturing companies.

● Cutting-edge technology – Students will gain hands-on experience with environmental scanning electron microscopes (ESEM), X-ray diffractometers (XRD), photonics labs, Synopsys semiconductor software, and electronic design automation (EDA) tools—the same technologies driving innovation worldwide.

● Interdisciplinary foundation – A rigorous blend of physics, chemistry, and engineering prepares students for leadership in one of the world’s most critical industries.

● Accreditation-driven design – The program is structured to meet ABET accreditation standards and aligns with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) criteria.

A Program Rooted in 51Ʒ��’s Legacy of Industry Leadership

For over a century, 51Ʒ�� has shaped the future of engineering, technology, and manufacturing — producing top talent for automotive, mobility, and advanced technology industries. As the U.S. semiconductor industry undergoes rapid expansion, 51Ʒ�� is once again stepping up to engineer the workforce of the future.

“This program is a direct response to national and industry needs,” said Dr. James Zhang, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “51Ʒ�� has a long history of adapting education to align with industry demands, and this degree exemplifies that commitment. By combining an accelerated curriculum with deep Co-op engagement, we are preparing students for high-impact careers in a field that is critical to national security and technological innovation.”

Engineering the Leaders of the Semiconductor Revolution

Semiconductor technology is advancing faster than ever. From the development of next-generation chips that power AI to new materials driving quantum computing and photonics, the future depends on experts who can bridge science and industry.

“This program is designed for those ready to push boundaries and take on industry challenges,” said Dr. Daniel Ludwigsen, Head of the Department of Natural Sciences. “Semiconductor technology requires expertise across physics, chemistry, and engineering. Our faculty have deep expertise in materials science, optoelectronics, and quantum physics, and this program leverages that strength to ensure students graduate ready to solve real-world semiconductor challenges from day one.”

Are You Ready to Build the Future?

This is not a program for students looking for shortcuts. It’s built for those ready to step up, take on industry-defining challenges, and lead in the next generation of semiconductor technology.

*An application for this new program has been submitted to the accreditor and is pending HLC approval.

Commencement

eoboyle — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:19:29 +0000

Commencement

eoboyle Wed, 02/26/2025 - 11:19

2025-06-21T09:30:00-0400 _2025-06-21T12:30:00-0400

Atwood Stadium

9:30 a.m. - 2025 Commencement Ceremony

Atwood Stadium, 51Ʒ��

For those unable to attend, the ceremony will be live-streamed.

*In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony may be delayed until later in the day on Saturday, June 21, or it may be moved to Sunday, June 22, at 9:30 a.m. The weather call will be made at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 21, and updates will be provided via email to participating graduates and on the University's Social Media Accounts.

For More Information and Tickets

51Ʒ�� Student Makes History as 2024 WDRA Summit Junior Dragster World Champion

rnorris — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 14:40:59 +0000

51Ʒ�� Student Makes History as 2024 WDRA Summit Junior Dragster World Champion

Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Student Life

Undergraduate

rnorris Mon, 01/13/2025 - 09:40

Evan Muchler ’28, a freshman majoring in mechanical engineering, made history this fall as the 2024 WDRA Summit Junior Dragster World Champion. His victory capped off a season of focus and determination, making him the competition’s first-ever back-to-back finalist. For Evan, this accomplishment was the culmination of years spent perfecting his skills and racing alongside his family.

“Winning a world championship to prove something to someone else would take away the significance of it,” Evan said. “So going into the first race of 2024, I had the mentality to win it for myself and my dad.”

Evan’s drag-racing journey began when he was a child. “I was initially drawn into drag racing because it was the coolest thing that could have happened to me,” he said. “I was able to drive my own car when I was 8!”

With his dad by his side, Evan honed his skills over the years. “My dad has been there every step of the way,” he said. “We’ve put in countless hours of practice in the garage and at the racetrack for different strategies and techniques.”

Falling short in the 2023 WDRA finals tested Evan’s determination and fueled his desire to come back stronger this year. “As soon as I lost in the final in 2023, I was already thinking about how close I was and how I had the most potential out of everyone to make it back next year,” he said.

In the offseason, he refined his focus, learning to stay grounded and present in high-pressure moments. “My mindset going into the final round was to not think about the huge trophy that says ‘World Champion’ on it or the winner circle picture or post-race interview but instead think about the moment,” he explained. “All that mattered was the next round, and why should this one be any different than the thousands of other rounds I’ve won?” That focus helped Evan deliver a near-perfect performance in the finals, securing the championship title.

Evan’s success on the track is closely tied to his academic journey. At 51Ʒ��, he is pursuing a mechanical engineering degree to deepen his understanding of the machines he races. “The reason why I’m studying mechanical engineering is because of drag racing,” he said. “If I plan on drag racing for a lot longer, then I need to know how things work with my race cars and how to fix them.”

Balancing academics and racing is no easy task, but Evan remains committed to both. “I will try to fit racing into my schedule wherever I can,” he said. “But I won’t be missing any schooling because just like the term student-athlete, the ‘student’ part comes first.”

With a championship behind him and an exciting future ahead, Evan Muchler exemplifies the focus, perseverance, and innovation that define success in both racing and engineering.

Mechanical Engineering

51Ʒ�� Students Drive Change: 230 Trees in 2 Hours

rnorris — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 19:54:16 +0000

51Ʒ�� Students Drive Change: 230 Trees in 2 Hours

Campus Events

Student Life

Undergraduate

rnorris Tue, 12/10/2024 - 14:54

Not everyone has what it takes to tackle a challenge with this much impact. 51Ʒ�� students do.

When Maggie Simons saw an opportunity to make Flint greener, she didn’t wait for someone else to step up. A hands-on leader and relentless problem solver, Simons inspired a team of 51Ʒ�� volunteers to plant 230 trees in just two hours, partnering with the Flint River Watershed Coalition (FRWC) to enhance the environment around Potter Elementary School on the city’s northeast side.

This effort was more than a day of digging — it was part of a broader initiative to restore Flint’s natural ecosystems and improve water quality. These trees will help stabilize soil, filter rainwater, and prevent standing water where bacteria thrive. It’s a long-term solution made possible by student volunteers ready to lead.

Simons worked closely with FRWC to set the date, recruit volunteers, and coordinate logistics. Drawing support from Greek Life and international students, she brought together a team that reflected 51Ʒ��’s culture: collaborative, driven, and ready to work hard.

“I didn’t think we’d finish this fast,” volunteers marveled after completing the project in record time. The experience united students from across campus, demonstrating what Bulldogs are built to do: take on challenges, make a measurable impact, and look to what’s next.

Simons is already planning another initiative with her sorority, Alpha Gamma Delta, for spring 2025. Inspired by this event’s success, she aims to mobilize even more students to continue environmental restoration in Flint.

For more information about FRWC and how to get involved, visit flintriver.org.

Celebrating 30 Years of International Collaboration: 51Ʒ��’s Exchange Program Anniversary

rnorris — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 18:07:40 +0000

Celebrating 30 Years of International Collaboration: 51Ʒ��’s Exchange Program Anniversary

Faculty & Staff

Undergraduate

rnorris Tue, 08/20/2024 - 14:07

51Ʒ�� proudly marked the 30th anniversary of its partnership with four Universities of Applied Sciences in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany. A weeklong series of events celebrating this milestone culminated in a symposium on Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Driving hosted by our partners in Konstanz, Germany, on July 10, 2024. The symposium showcased the innovative research conducted by faculty members from all participating institutions and fostered new partnerships and collaborations.

The symposium featured distinguished speakers from 51Ʒ��, including:

Dr. Jungme Park, Associate Professor of Computer Engineering, who discussed "Enhancing Environmental Perception for Autonomous Driving using DNN and Sensor Fusion Technologies."
Dr. Girma Tewolde, Professor of Computer Engineering, who presented "Autonomous Mobility Teaching and Research Activities at 51Ʒ��."
Dr. Lisa Gandy, Associate Professor of Computer Science, who explored "Using Large Language Models in Medical Technology."
Dr. Seyed Jamaleddin Mostafavi Yazdi, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering, who spoke about "Leveraging Physics-Informed Neural Networks for Advanced Mechanical Characterization and Optimization of Lattice Structures."

In July 1994, a delegation of educators from Baden-Wurttemberg traveled to Flint, Michigan, and visited 51Ʒ��, then called GMI Engineering and Management Institute or GMI/EMI, to sign the first agreement with then-University President Dr. Jim John. The first semester-long exchanges began in 1996, allowing 51Ʒ�� students to experience life in Germany while earning college credit and bringing German students into the 51Ʒ�� community. It was the first exchange program of its kind in 51Ʒ��'s history. Today, the program is the University’s largest and most active exchange program.

More than 3,400 students and faculty members have participated during the program’s 30-year existence. These exchanges have fostered collaborative research and innovations that have enriched learning for students and faculty on both sides of the Atlantic. The program has allowed 51Ʒ�� students, who have rigid schedules due to Co-op and rigorous 11-week academic terms, to enjoy a study abroad experience, as the Baden-Wurttemberg universities modified their schedules to match 51Ʒ��’s term calendar and length.

“Studying abroad encourages our students to develop the skills needed to succeed in the workplace, such as intercultural communication, problem-solving, and adaptability,” said Laura Allen, Director of the 51Ʒ�� Office of International Programs. “Experiencing an academic program in another country also encourages our students to engage in new ways of learning and, when students return home, apply these new skills and experiences to their academic program and Co-op.”

The enduring collaboration with Reutlingen University, Esslingen University, Ulm University, and Konstanz University is supported by the Ministry of Science, Research, and Arts of Baden-Wurttemberg and the Baden-Wurttemberg Foundation.

In July 2024, 51Ʒ�� President Dr. Robert McMahan, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. James Zhang, and a delegation from 51Ʒ�� traveled to Germany to celebrate the milestone anniversary with some of the people responsible for creating the partnership 30 years ago. During the celebration dinner, Dr. McMahan paid tribute to Dr. Ron Greenwood, who was instrumental in organizing the first delegation from Flint to Germany; Prof. Gerhard Walliser, who coordinated the program from 1994 until 2010; and Prof. Baldur Veit, who has coordinated the program in partnership with the Ministry of Science, Research, and the Arts of Baden-Wuerttemberg since 2011. The celebration also saw the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding, renewing the commitment to the international partnership and laying the groundwork for future collaborations.

"As we look to the future, we are committed to exploring new opportunities for growth and innovation," Dr. McMahan said. "As we sign the new Memorandum of Understanding, we do so with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm. Together, we will strive to enhance our programs, expand our research collaborations, and create even more opportunities for our students and faculty."

This anniversary commemorates three decades of academic and cultural exchange and highlights the ongoing commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence that 51Ʒ�� and its German partners share. Current 51Ʒ�� faculty member Dr. Mo Torfeh has been a part of the exchange program from the beginning. Dr. Torfeh is a professor of electrical and computer engineering specializing in automotive electronic control systems, electric vehicle propulsion, and solar photovoltaic energy systems. Torfeh has also served as the faculty coordinator for the Baden-Wuerttemberg program. “51Ʒ�� students who participate in the exchange learn skills that are very beneficial for when everything's getting global. We have to work with all kinds of cultures,” said Torfeh. “The German students benefit from the opportunity to strengthen their English skills. And all of the students build strong connections and friendships with one another.” Torfeh has also served as the faculty coordinator for the Baden-Wuerttemberg program. In that role, he advises 51Ʒ�� ECE students who want to participate in the exchange. Dr. Torfeh also coordinates research projects for German students who wish to complete their master's thesis while at 51Ʒ��.

Another 51Ʒ�� faculty member, Dr. Jungme Park, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, specializes in environmental perception for autonomous driving and the optimization of deep neural networks for artificial intelligence and serves as a research advisor for German students.

As we look to the future, the symposium in Konstanz symbolizes the continued dedication to pushing the boundaries of research and fostering global academic relationships. It is thanks to the hard work and commitment of everyone involved that the collaboration has become a shining example of what can be achieved through international cooperation.

Click here for the photo gallery from the week of events in Germany.