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New opportunity for veterans interested in energy technology careers
Department of Energy launches Student Design Competition for Wind
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DOE Inaugural National Collegiate Wind CompetitionRFP responses to technical questions posted.The RFP and responses to technical questions (Amendment 1) is available on the Federal Business Opportunities website, solicitation number RFC-3-23003. The deadline is February 19 at 5 pm Mountain Time.On January 8, 2013, the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE's) National Renewable Energy Laboratory issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to participate in DOE's inaugural National Collegiate Wind Competition, designed to enable the DOE to help foster the growth of the future wind energy industry and workforce. The Competition is a forum for undergraduate college students of multiple disciplines to investigate innovative wind energy concepts; gain experience designing, building, and testing a wind turbine to perform according to a customized market data-derived business plan; and increase their knowledge of wind industry barriers. The theme of the inaugural competition taking place in May 2014 is to design and construct a lightweight, transportable wind turbine that can be used to power small electronic devices. |
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New Solar Thermal System for Griz House 8
It's been a warm, but snowy and sunny winter in Missoula. Just the conditions you would ask for if you wanted to start to wean yourself from the comforts of combustion. Tim Chester again took matters into his own hands and built not one, but two solar thermal systems over break. "I was bored," said Chester in a recent interview by Journalism graduate student Allison Mills. After installing his first system on his own garage, Tim set out to warm the Director who up to now has been guilty of merely sapping heat from the wall units his colleagues kindly power up. With any luck, Tim's device will keep the southwest corner suite of GH8 warm with BTUs to spare.
Bradley Layton, Tim Chester and Adam Coppock pause for a pose after a successful installation of Tim's solar thermal creation. The total cost of materials was under $250. The system's baffles were made from repurposed aluminum cans which were mindfully deposited in the recently deployed recycling bins at Missoula College.
To hear Allison Mills's KBGA radio interview, click here.
To hear Allison Mills's KBGA radio interview, click here.
IT Student Researcher Recognized
The work of Missoula College student Lance Pellerin has been featured in the latest edition of UM's Vision magazine.
Lance Pellerin graduated this past spring from Missoula College (formerly known as the College of Technology) with his associate degree in computer technology. He left the program with a 4.0 grade-point average and moved to UM’s central campus this fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science. In April, Pellerin won the physical sciences category at the UM Undergraduate Research Conference. His work has solicited discussion about the impact of information technology in reducing the University’s overall carbon footprint.
The complete article is available at
http://www.umt.edu/urelations/pubs/Vision%20magazine/Vision%202012/Student.php
Lance Pellerin graduated this past spring from Missoula College (formerly known as the College of Technology) with his associate degree in computer technology. He left the program with a 4.0 grade-point average and moved to UM’s central campus this fall to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science. In April, Pellerin won the physical sciences category at the UM Undergraduate Research Conference. His work has solicited discussion about the impact of information technology in reducing the University’s overall carbon footprint.
The complete article is available at
http://www.umt.edu/urelations/pubs/Vision%20magazine/Vision%202012/Student.php
Tim Chester builds solar thermal system in his garage over the semester break.
First-year Energy Technology student Tim Chester takes a step towards placing his energy future in his own hands with some recycleables and about $150 in other materials.
With a little help from Martin Wisherd '12
Tim had a working system completed and ready for testing at the end of a weekend of work.
Tim reports:
Tim
Tim reports:
"Thanks for all the help Martin! I was able to get it finished about 8pm last night.
I have it out in the yard already getting numbers this morning! I set it up on an old tire and leaned against the house so I can adjust angles. I put it out there at 9:30 and the air temp was 21.9F. It is just sucking in ambient air with no fan and is putting out 57.8F from the outlet. I'll take a 35F heating factor, but I think it will do much better with some tweaking. The sun is not being very cooperative right now, it is still a bit hazy and small clouds are messing with me. I'm getting pictures and playing with the angles to try to optimize it. I am getting 5F shifts just by changing the angle a few degrees.
If I had it hooked up to ducts from the house, I would have 65F going in and 100F coming out, which should heat the room nicely. You guys correct me if I'm wrong, but warmer air has more moisture content and should heat better than cold dry air. So I would suspect an even higher heating factor. I think a fan forcing airflow will make a big difference as well. I'll get pictures throughout the day and post them up tonight. Hopefully the sun will cooperate and this haze will go away!"
Tim
CAD Program Director and Colleague Departs
Adjunct Professor and CAD Program Director, Krisztian Varsa, will be leaving The University of Montana at the end of the term to accept a position with The University of Maryland as a field researcher through their extension office. Professor Varsa has been a valued colleague, friend, and member of our faculty team here at UM. Although it is with some reluctance he leaves Montana, this job opportunity allows him to be reunited with family and his wife Jessica. He'll be missed by his friends at Missoula College, but not by the trout in our Montana rivers. Kristzian is a skilled fly fisherman and all of these creature will be a bit safer with Krisztian on the East Coast. Krisztian will continue to teach the online course CADX142 Geospatial Technologies as a distance faculty member.
ACE Adjunct Professor Dianne Burke new MTSBA President
Dianne Burke, Applied Computing & Electronics Adjunct Professor and Frenchtown School Board Trustee, will serve as President of the Association and Chair the 21-member Board of Directors of MTSBA. In an address to MTSBA’s school trustee members at MCEL, Burke talked about the passion she has developed for K-12 public education that she shares with fellow trustees across Montana. “MTSBA is an outstanding organization and we will be working collaboratively through this Legislative session to advocate for all of Montana’s students,” Burke said.
“Dianne (Burke) has been a strong leader and advocate for public education as a member of our Board for many years,” said Lance Melton, Executive Director of the Montana School Boards Association. “We look forward to her leadership over the next year as President, where she will be instrumental in advocating for the interests of every Montana child before the Montana legislature with a unified voice. Dianne will also take charge in advocating for Montana’s children at the federal level when the MTSBA Officers meet with our Congressional Delegation in Washington, D.C., in January,” Melton said.
Dianne Burke has served on the Frenchtown School Board since 2004 and has held leadership positions since 2005. She was raised in Houston, Texas, and received a B.A. in Biochemistry from Rice University and a M.S. in Chemistry from University of Houston. She is currently working on a doctorate in Education Leadership at the University of Montana. A Frenchtown resident for over 20 years, Dianne owns a computer consulting business and is a faculty member at the University of Montana. Her 3 children are graduates of Frenchtown schools. In her spare time, Dianne enjoys woodworking, running, and playing the violin.
“Dianne (Burke) has been a strong leader and advocate for public education as a member of our Board for many years,” said Lance Melton, Executive Director of the Montana School Boards Association. “We look forward to her leadership over the next year as President, where she will be instrumental in advocating for the interests of every Montana child before the Montana legislature with a unified voice. Dianne will also take charge in advocating for Montana’s children at the federal level when the MTSBA Officers meet with our Congressional Delegation in Washington, D.C., in January,” Melton said.
Dianne Burke has served on the Frenchtown School Board since 2004 and has held leadership positions since 2005. She was raised in Houston, Texas, and received a B.A. in Biochemistry from Rice University and a M.S. in Chemistry from University of Houston. She is currently working on a doctorate in Education Leadership at the University of Montana. A Frenchtown resident for over 20 years, Dianne owns a computer consulting business and is a faculty member at the University of Montana. Her 3 children are graduates of Frenchtown schools. In her spare time, Dianne enjoys woodworking, running, and playing the violin.
Health IT - Scribes Recruiters on Campus
Wednesday, October 31 recruiters will at the Missoula College Commons 10am-1pm looking for students/graduates to work with Providence Health System Hospitals in Missoula, Polson, & Deer Lodge as the continue the transition to the EPIC Electronic Health Record. For further information on Health IT education at Missoula College contact Professor Gallagher
Tim Chester featured in the Kaimen
Tim Chester was recently featured in an article by Allison Mills in the Kaimin. Tim is one of many students formerly of the military pursuing a degree with outcomes that are as diverse as its students.
Rescheduled: Bachelor of Applied Science Meeting on 11/20/12
For those of you currently pursuing or interested in seeking a Bachelor of Applied Science in an Energy Technology related field, please consider attending an informational and group advising meeting in the Dean's Conference Room at the Missoula College on Tuesday, November 20 at 2:00 pm. Please note that this meeting has been rescheduled from an earlier date.
If you are unable join in person and would like to join via Skype or Amvonet, please contact Beth Shirilla at beth.shirilla@umontana.edu. The purpose of the meeting will be to share plans of study, answer questions regarding specific degree requirements, and to investigate additional course offerings specific to energy technology.
Details on the program can be found http://ace.cte.umt.edu/BAS_Overview.pdf
If you are unable join in person and would like to join via Skype or Amvonet, please contact Beth Shirilla at beth.shirilla@umontana.edu. The purpose of the meeting will be to share plans of study, answer questions regarding specific degree requirements, and to investigate additional course offerings specific to energy technology.
Details on the program can be found http://ace.cte.umt.edu/BAS_Overview.pdf
Aluma Alison Sweeney featured in Bozeman Chronicle
Alison Sweeney, Energy Technology, '11 was recently featured in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle for her work with Liquid solar as she installs solar thermal panels on the local food co-op.
Energy Tech Alumnus Presents to Students
Energy Technology graduate (Class of '10) Robert Potts returns to campus on Thursday, October 4th for a special talk to Energy Technology students on his experiences in the field of wind energy with Invenergy at the Judith Gap Energy Center in Harlowton. Robert will be presenting in HB17 at 3:30. He will be joined by Larry Keogh '10 who will discuss his latest efforts to build net-zero homes in the Bitteroot.
Mandatory PETSA Training
Did you know
that students who have not completed the PETSA training will not be allowed to register for spring semester classes? Almost 2,000 Missoula College students still need to complete the training.
The PETSA training is
for ALL students at ALL campuses of the University of Montana (including distance learners).
You can
direct any questions to PETSA@umontana.edu.
Time to Think About Spring Semester!
It’s hard to believe, but registration for Spring 2013 is right around the corner! Here’s what you need to know:
- Registration for Spring 2013 begins October 22nd
- To register on time, set up your advising appointment now
- ACE Department Students (CAD, Computer Support, IT, Electronics Tech, & Energy Tech) should contact Beth Shirilla to set up an appointment with their advisor
- Bring the following to your appointment:
- Your unofficial transcript
- Your program checklist
- Program flow chart or any other advising materials you may have from previous semesters
2012 Tech Fair
Programs from Missoula College's Applied Computing & Electronics Department were highlighted at The University of Montana Tech Fair. Some of the student projects on display included the Human-Powered Vehicle; winning CAD Technical Drawings from Bike Rack, Recycling Center, & Building Footprint contests; and the Sustainable Computing Research Project (Physical Sciences undergraduate award winning poster).
The Tech Fair showcases campus technologies and support services vital to the success of UM students faculty and staff. Thanks goes out to Professors Layton, Varsa, Shen, and Gallagher; graduate Andrew Machain; Administrative Associate Beth Shirilla; and Energy Technology student Zac Rambo and Nathan Ferro for staffing the event.
Pictured below: Department Chairman Tom Gallagher and Energy Technology Graduate Andrew Machain (left) and the Battery Doctor's portable solar power station prototype (right)
Additional credential for 2-year IT program students
IT students -
Did you know that in the process of completing your 2-year degree, you also complete the credits required for a Computer Support Certificate?
All you have to do to claim this certificate is submit a graduation application once those courses are complete. Since you only have to pay the graduation fee once for any degree you get at UM, you’re getting an extra credential to add to your resume and make you more employable for FREE!
Ask Beth (beth.shirilla@umontana.edu) or your advisor for more info.
Graduation Application Deadline: October 1
The Registrar’s Office has decided to extend the deadline for December 2012 graduation applications until October 1, 2012. October 1 is also posted as the last day the registrar will be accepting May 2013 graduation applications.
Long-time Faculty Member & Friend Steve Rice Passes
Retired Electronics Technology Professor Steve Rice passed away Saturday, September 1, 2012 due to complications from cancer. Professor Rice served as a faculty member at The University of Montana College of Technology for nearly 27 years. He was a tremendous teacher known for his "hands-on" approach in instructing students. As Director of the Electronics Technology Program, he mentored many individuals in the design and construction of electronic circuits. He supported career technical education as a means for individuals to gain jobs. Thanks to the tutelage of Professor Rice, his students were always well-qualified in their trade. His teaching practices reinforced a "student-centered" approach to education. He was always an advocate for the student.
In addition to his successful teaching career, Professor Rice excelled in research. He was a member of the innovative and highly-publicized UM research team which taught bees to detect land mines. Professor Rice was credited as the chief architect for the "Electronic Beehive", a key component in the success of the project. The team was able to transfer the technology from its UM research into the highly successfully private company Bee Alert Technologies.
Steve was a dear friend and colleague.
In addition to his successful teaching career, Professor Rice excelled in research. He was a member of the innovative and highly-publicized UM research team which taught bees to detect land mines. Professor Rice was credited as the chief architect for the "Electronic Beehive", a key component in the success of the project. The team was able to transfer the technology from its UM research into the highly successfully private company Bee Alert Technologies.
Steve was a dear friend and colleague.
Energy Technology Program Powers Roots Fest
Energy Technology Students, Alumni, and Faculty joined forces in
providing renewable electricity for the arts show at the Missoula River
City Roots Fest. Dr Brad Layton, Energy Technology Program Director,
organized a group of students and alumni in putting this event together. Energy Technology Alumni, Andrew Machain's portable solar generation system provided electricity for art show vendors. The student solar car from the Shell Eco-marathon was an "attention-grabber" at the event.
Autumn 2012 Admissions Deadline
Missoula College has a
rolling admission policy. There are no application deadlines and
students may apply to the college at any time. However, many of our
academic programs fill quickly. Early application is recommended
to reserve a spot in the program of your choice. Both math (ALEKS) and
writing (eCompass) placement exams are required in order to be admitted
to programs in the Department of Applied Computing and Electronics.
Competed applications must be processed and
placement exams must be completed by August 10 in order to be admitted to
ACE programs for fall semester (January 10 is the deadline for spring
semester). Student applications processed after August 10 will be accepted, but students will be placed into
a pre-program status for the period of one semester (assuming all prerequisite courses have been completed). Additionally, students need to complete the ALEKS math placement exam and
the eCompass writing placement exam. Please see specific details on your program’s
website or speak with your program director or advisor if you have any
questions.
IT Student's Research in Green IT Wins Award
IT student Lance Pellerin recently completed work on a research project examining the use of cloud computing and desktop virtualization in minimizing the carbon footprint of the information worker. This Green IT research project utilized remote desktop technologies and thin-client computing devices in a shared server environment for office information workers at the University. Lance's research earned him first place in the physical sciences poster session at the 2012 University of Montana Undergraduate Research Conference. Lance, having completed his A.A.S. degree in Information Technology, will continue his education by pursuing a bachelor's degree through UM's Davidson Honors College. Lance's faculty advisor was Associate Professor Tom Gallagher.
Workforce Report Released - Demand for Electronics Technical Professionals Strong
A workforce report completed by Applied Computing & Electronics faculty affiliate, Peter Rahn details high demand in the local region for individuals with the skills and knowledge to support control systems, industrial automation equipment, and instrumentation. Energy efficiency enhancements in commercial and residential buildings; a revitalized wood products industry; precious metal extraction; food production; biomedical industry; fossil fuel extraction; and automated industrial manufacturing facilities all reported a need for electronics technical professionals. Forty-two regional entities were interviewed for the report. The report describes employment prospects for graduates from the UM Electronics Technology Program to be strong. The complete report is available at http://ace.cte.umt.edu/eet/2012rahneetreport.pdf
Autumn Registration Begins - April 9
Registration for Autumn Semester courses begins April 9. All students are required to obtain a registration PIN from an advisor. Advising appointments can be made by directly through your advisor or by contacting Beth Shirilla 243.7916 | beth.shirilla@umontana.edu
Advisor Contact Information:
Computer IT Program
Penny Jakes 243.7804 penny.jakes@umontana.edu
Rhonda Tabish 243.7808 rhonda.tabish@umontana.edu
Steve Stiff 243.7913 steven.stiff@umontana.edu
Energy Technology
Brad Layton 243.7865 bradley.layton@umontana.edu
Tom Gallagher 243.7814 thomas.gallagher@umontana.edu
Computer Aided Design
Krisztian Varsa 243.7811 krisztian.varas@umontana.edu
Electronics Technology
Tom Gallagher 243.7814 thomas.gallagher@umontana.edu
Steve Stiff 243.7913 steven.stiff@umontana.edu
Advisor Contact Information:
Computer IT Program
Penny Jakes 243.7804 penny.jakes@umontana.edu
Rhonda Tabish 243.7808 rhonda.tabish@umontana.edu
Steve Stiff 243.7913 steven.stiff@umontana.edu
Energy Technology
Brad Layton 243.7865 bradley.layton@umontana.edu
Tom Gallagher 243.7814 thomas.gallagher@umontana.edu
Computer Aided Design
Krisztian Varsa 243.7811 krisztian.varas@umontana.edu
Electronics Technology
Tom Gallagher 243.7814 thomas.gallagher@umontana.edu
Steve Stiff 243.7913 steven.stiff@umontana.edu
Grant Myhre Talks About Shell Eco Marathon on Montana Today
Grant Myhre, one of the team members competing in the Shell Eco Marathon next week in Houston, TX talks about the project with Monte Turner on Montana Today. See the video here: http://www.nbcmontana.com/Grant-Myhre-3-19-12/-/14594424/14386646/-/vxovij/-/index.html
UMCOT Students Prepare for Shell EcoMarathon
A team of students
representing The University of Montana College of Technology are diligently
preparing for the 2012 Shell EcoMarathon to be held in Houston Texas March 29th
– April 1st. The team is comprised of students representing all
three campuses with Environmental Studies majors and Welding majors joining the
Energy Technology students. This is the first such entry from the UMCOT, but
they have hopes to place well in the solar division, which requires that teams
collect more energy than they consume during the six-mile race. “We could not
have gotten this far without some major space donations from local businesses,”
says Energy Technology Program Director, Bradley Layton. “We are extremely
fortunate to live in a community that has a true sense of unity. We have also
benefitted from the resources available to us at the Montana Enterprise
Center.” Stay tuned for more news as the project progresses…
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Welding student Jesse Sedler
clears the frame he welded and helped design for launch
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NPR: Is U.S. Energy Independence Finally Within Reach?
Rising gas prices have been the big energy story of the past several weeks. But
many energy experts say that's a sideshow compared with the really big energy
event — the huge boom in oil and natural gas production in the U.S. that could
help the nation reach the elusive goal of energy independence.
Read or listen to full story at : http://www.npr.org/2012/03/07/148036966/is-u-s-energy-independence-finally-within-reach
Read or listen to full story at : http://www.npr.org/2012/03/07/148036966/is-u-s-energy-independence-finally-within-reach
ACE Department Looking for Work Study Student
Are you approved for work study for this spring semester? Do you have solid computing skills? We are looking for someone to work 15-19 hours per week supporting both our department and the Health Professions Department. Check out the job listing on the student job site here: http://www.umt.edu/studentjobsapp/ViewJob.asp?id=9647 and apply through the website or send your resume to beth.shirilla@umontana.edu.
Electronics Technology Students Tour Research Facility
Students from the Electronics Technology program recently completed a tour of the research facilities at the UM Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics.
Highlighted in the tour was the robotics equipment used in the research center. X-ray crystallographers, crystallize proteins and visualize their 3-D structure from diffraction data obtained by exposing these protein crystals to high intensity X-ray beams (Top Figure). The 3-D image of the protein enables understanding of their biological function, and also is used to design new drugs against diseases. The Crystal Gryphon, is a small & fast robot for setting up crystal plates that we use in our lab to crystallize proteins (Bottom Figure). Essentially the robot consists of two arms each capable of x, y and z axis motions. The side arm on the right delivers the protein to the plates and the middle arm dispenses the crystallization solution. The protein arm dips its needle into the protein solution, withdraws the requisite amount, often just a minute drop (in the order of 1/1000 of an ml), and then dispenses them into 96 wells on to the plate below. The second robot that has 96 dispensing needles does the same, but dispensed in one motion. The plates are then set in incubators to obtain protein crystals.
The robotic arm has three degrees of freedoms, horizontal, x,y and vertical z axis, but permits only one motional degree at a time, to ensure precision and accuracy. The arms have sensor that detect liquid levels and also floor levels so that they can draw correct amounts of liquid and not touch the plates. It is equipped with motion sensors that stop the robot if it detects human movement near the needles to ensure no accidents occur. The robot is controlled solely by a computer powered by an i7, 3.4 GHz Strong Arm processor and a 64 bit robotic control software communicates via fiber optics to the robot, ensuring very high operating baud rate. Thus the overall design of the robot accommodates of precise motions with minimal human interference and is rated to perform for at least ten years of continuous use.
Highlighted in the tour was the robotics equipment used in the research center. X-ray crystallographers, crystallize proteins and visualize their 3-D structure from diffraction data obtained by exposing these protein crystals to high intensity X-ray beams (Top Figure). The 3-D image of the protein enables understanding of their biological function, and also is used to design new drugs against diseases. The Crystal Gryphon, is a small & fast robot for setting up crystal plates that we use in our lab to crystallize proteins (Bottom Figure). Essentially the robot consists of two arms each capable of x, y and z axis motions. The side arm on the right delivers the protein to the plates and the middle arm dispenses the crystallization solution. The protein arm dips its needle into the protein solution, withdraws the requisite amount, often just a minute drop (in the order of 1/1000 of an ml), and then dispenses them into 96 wells on to the plate below. The second robot that has 96 dispensing needles does the same, but dispensed in one motion. The plates are then set in incubators to obtain protein crystals.
The robotic arm has three degrees of freedoms, horizontal, x,y and vertical z axis, but permits only one motional degree at a time, to ensure precision and accuracy. The arms have sensor that detect liquid levels and also floor levels so that they can draw correct amounts of liquid and not touch the plates. It is equipped with motion sensors that stop the robot if it detects human movement near the needles to ensure no accidents occur. The robot is controlled solely by a computer powered by an i7, 3.4 GHz Strong Arm processor and a 64 bit robotic control software communicates via fiber optics to the robot, ensuring very high operating baud rate. Thus the overall design of the robot accommodates of precise motions with minimal human interference and is rated to perform for at least ten years of continuous use.
Dr. Layton to Give Keynote Presentation at STEM Summit in Bellevue, WA
The second annual STEM Summit (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math):Integrating STEM into Today’s Classroom to Develop Tomorrow’s Leaders will be held on Thursday, February 9th, and Friday, February 10th, 2012 at Bellevue College in Bellevue, WA.
This two-day Summit will introduce you to K-20 best practices in education focusing on innovative teaching and learning in STEM. Attendees will be examining curriculum for incorporation of best practices in STEM teaching and learning.
Dr. Layon's keynote presentation will focus on Energy Technology Education in Efficiency To Engender Energy Independence:Science & Math Lay the Foundation for the Next Generation of Energy Technology Leaders.
Dr. Layton is an Assistant Professor for the Department of Applied Computing and Electronics at The University of Montana College of Technology.
Dr. Layton received his Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, with concentrations in soft-tissue mechanics and the molecular structure of collagen. His dissertation topic was Remodeling of Heterogeneous Extracellular Matrices of the Diabetic Nerve: Models and Experiments. He received his Masters in Science in mechanical engineering from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and his Bachelors in Science in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA.
Dr. Layton now serves as the Director of Energy Technology Program at The University of Montana College of Technology. He is currently facilitating the coordination of face-to-face and online learning opportunities and innovations. Dr. Layton also has a research interest in nanoscale biomechanics and has several publications in this field. He has received research funding from The National Science Foundation, NASA, The Keck Foundation, and the United States Department of Agriculture. His current passion is educating his students and the general public about the threats of energy dependence and the opportunities available for adopting sustainable energy technologies.
In his spare time Dr. Layton enjoys bicycling and hiking with his family. As a former member of the United States National Rowing Team, he now very much appreciates the opportunities he has to kayak and actually see where he is going!
For more information on the summit, please see http://www.coeforict.org/events/stemsummit/
This two-day Summit will introduce you to K-20 best practices in education focusing on innovative teaching and learning in STEM. Attendees will be examining curriculum for incorporation of best practices in STEM teaching and learning.
Dr. Layon's keynote presentation will focus on Energy Technology Education in Efficiency To Engender Energy Independence:Science & Math Lay the Foundation for the Next Generation of Energy Technology Leaders.
Dr. Layton is an Assistant Professor for the Department of Applied Computing and Electronics at The University of Montana College of Technology.
Dr. Layton received his Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, with concentrations in soft-tissue mechanics and the molecular structure of collagen. His dissertation topic was Remodeling of Heterogeneous Extracellular Matrices of the Diabetic Nerve: Models and Experiments. He received his Masters in Science in mechanical engineering from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and his Bachelors in Science in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA.
Dr. Layton now serves as the Director of Energy Technology Program at The University of Montana College of Technology. He is currently facilitating the coordination of face-to-face and online learning opportunities and innovations. Dr. Layton also has a research interest in nanoscale biomechanics and has several publications in this field. He has received research funding from The National Science Foundation, NASA, The Keck Foundation, and the United States Department of Agriculture. His current passion is educating his students and the general public about the threats of energy dependence and the opportunities available for adopting sustainable energy technologies.
In his spare time Dr. Layton enjoys bicycling and hiking with his family. As a former member of the United States National Rowing Team, he now very much appreciates the opportunities he has to kayak and actually see where he is going!
For more information on the summit, please see http://www.coeforict.org/events/stemsummit/
REAP Application Process Open
The 2012 Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) has been announced in the Federal Register. Applications are now being accepted for the Renewable Energy Systems, Energy Efficiency Program, Feasibility Study and Energy Audit programs. The 2008 Farm Bill created several energy-related funding programs for USDA Rural Development. The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and several other programs are designed to provide access to capital to incentivize the implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy practices in rural small businesses and agricultural operations.
The MT allocations are less than last year and are as follows:
Small Grants (<$20,000) - $71,000
Large grants (>$20,000) - $72,000
REAP Guarantees - $469,644
Additional funds are available from the National Office reserve on a first come first served basis for the loan guarantee funds and on a competitive basis for the grant funds. In 2011 Montana funded $113, 414 in small grants, $158,298 in large grants, and $153,232 in Loan Guarantees. We hope to do better in 2012.
Application information can be obtained from any Rural Development Area Office or by visiting our website at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/MT_reap.html
Energy Technology Students Awarded a KRELF Grant
We recently received the news that our KRELF application was recently accepted by the review committee. Funds will be used to purchase solar cells, batteries, a motor and other components to build a vehicle to compete in the 2012 Shell EcoMarathon in Houston. The team of students represents all three University of Montana campuses, with students from Environmental Sciences, Energy Technology and Welding all collaborating to build a competitive vehicle.
REVIT Training - January 16
REVIT is a building information modeling (BIM) software product created by AutoDESK. It has been described as the revolutionary architectural design tool for all new construction. The Computer Aided Design program is sponsoring a week-long REVIT training beginning January 16th. Interest within the community has been high and registration will be limited to the first 20 applicants. Course instruction will be delivered by BIM guru Eugene O'Day. All students entering the class are expected to possess a strong background in CAD as the delivery will be paced for the intermediate/advanced user. For further information contact Krisztian Varsa krisztian.varsa@umontana.edu | 406.243.7920
New Interactive Map Launched for the PV industry
The US Department of Energy recently launched an interactive career map to help those considering entering the field of sustainable energy technology.
The map assists the user in understanding the inter-relatedness of various occupations within the various fields of sustainable energy technology.
The map assists the user in understanding the inter-relatedness of various occupations within the various fields of sustainable energy technology.
Layton Gives talk on Thermoeconomics at ASME International conference in Denver, Monday November 14, 2011
Professor Layton traveled to Denver in mid-November to present his paper, entitled "Application of Game Theory to Thermoeconomics." During the presentation, Layton attempted to impress upon his audience that the rate at which we are currently converting chemical, nuclear, and short-wave radiant energy into thermal energy energy is clearly unsustainable. While the global rate is 200 megajoules per person per day, the average North American's rate is 1200 megajoules per day. By contrast, each person converts only 10 megajoules per day metabolically. He also introduced a relationship between information and entropy that he has been examining for the past few years and postulated that humanity entropicizes its immediate environment at a rate 1022 greater than the background entropy generation rate of the universe and noted that we can no longer escape our own entropy as evidenced by much of the thaw that is occurring in Greenland exacerbating the Fukushima disaster of March 2011, which in turn led to further entropization of the Pacific ocean. Layton was also dismayed by the unwillingness of many of the able-bodied conference participants to boycott the escalators in the conference center.
Layton fielding technical questions at the conclusion of his talk, demonstrates some of the strategies he practices to stay physically fit, keep organic material out of landfills, reduce loads on municipal waste management, and enrich the soil in his own backyard. Photo courtesy of Leila Aboharb.
Layton fielding technical questions at the conclusion of his talk, demonstrates some of the strategies he practices to stay physically fit, keep organic material out of landfills, reduce loads on municipal waste management, and enrich the soil in his own backyard. Photo courtesy of Leila Aboharb.
Biomimicry Design Challenge
Students in the CAD Program are currently competing in the first annual Biomimicry Design Challenge. The Challenge is a global design competition (nearly 40 international teams!) in which students will apply the principles of biomimicry to improve energy efficiency and ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In biomimicry, designers are inspired by organisms, systems, or processes of the natural world. For more information, Janine Benyus of the Biomimicry Institute presents Biomimicry In Action.
Over the course of the semester, students enrolled in Technical Drawing and AutoCAD II will generate ideas, draw hand sketches, ,and produce 3D models to prepare for their presentation to the judges at the Biomimicry Institute. This competition is exciting for the College of Technology because the home of the Biomimicry Institute is in Missoula so we consider ourselves the hometown favorite. Recently, Technical Drawing students completed the first round of ideation which resulted in a variety of excellent ideas and designs. The students will pick one design and then hone the project. Cheer us on as we head for the deadline of December 21st!
Janine Benyus describes Biomimicry in the following TED talk:
Over the course of the semester, students enrolled in Technical Drawing and AutoCAD II will generate ideas, draw hand sketches, ,and produce 3D models to prepare for their presentation to the judges at the Biomimicry Institute. This competition is exciting for the College of Technology because the home of the Biomimicry Institute is in Missoula so we consider ourselves the hometown favorite. Recently, Technical Drawing students completed the first round of ideation which resulted in a variety of excellent ideas and designs. The students will pick one design and then hone the project. Cheer us on as we head for the deadline of December 21st!
Janine Benyus describes Biomimicry in the following TED talk:
Energy Technology OSHA Training
Montana Department of Labor and Industry Safety and Health Bureau Chief Bryan Page inspects Energy Technology student Chris Marmorato as he dons a safety harness as Energy Technology student Timothy Cardarelli looks on. On November 3rd and 4th, seventeen Energy Technology students and alums participated in the ten-hour OSHA safety training course.
And here is the happy group of trainees after a well-delivered ten-hour session!
I.T. Students Tour Local Data Center
The Washington Corporation hosted a group of I.T. students on a tour of their newly renovated corporate data center. The data center located here in Missoula centralizes I.T. services for all companies in the Washington Corporation global operations group. Thanks to Tim, Andy, Chris, and Drew at Washington Corporation for providing this great opportunity to our students.
Students Compete in Programming Contest
Students from the Information Technology program competed in the Montana State ACM Programming Contest held Saturday, September 24. Shawn Dennis, Larry Mee, and Ray Naranjo represented the UM-COT campus in this annual event hosted at Montana State University in Bozeman. This group of students competed with Computer Science students from UM , MSU, Montana Tech, & Carroll College. Each team had 5 hours to solve 5 problems. "It was a wonderful opportunity for our students" states Instructor Rhonda Tabish, faculty advisor for the UM COT Programming Team.
Further information can be found on contest website http://www.cs.montana.edu/paxton/contest/
Further information can be found on contest website http://www.cs.montana.edu/paxton/contest/
Changes on the Horizon for Montana Two-year Colleges
The Montana University System is undergoing a major transformational change for two-year colleges. This effort, known as College!NOW is funded through the Lumina Foundation for Education and has received national recognition.
Deputy Commissioner John Cech has provided a comprehensive update of the accomplishments of College!NOW since January 1, 2011, and an overview of the five community listening sessions planned for October (Billings, Great Falls, Butte, Helena, and Missoula) focusing on the rebranding and renaming of Montana’s five Colleges of Technology.
Sessions in Missoula will take place on Thursday, Oct 13 from 7:15-8:30am Doubletree-100 Madison-UM Room; 9:00-10:15am-UM Main Campus-32 Campus Dr-University Ctr. Theatre-3rd Floor,5:00–6:15 pm-COT Campus-909 S. Ave. West-HB 11
The first College!NOW newsletter is available at http://www.umt.edu/president/docs/CollegeNOW_enews_FINAL.pdf or on the website: http://mus.edu/2yr/COLLEGEnow/news/CollegeNow_eNews.html
Energy Professor Directs Rowing Instruction
Professor Brad Layton is slated to deliver two session on rowing techniques on the ergometer through UM Campus Recreation Fitness Programs. The sessions are slated for Wednesday, September 21 12:00-1:00pm and 4:30-5:30pm. Brad is a former US Rowing Team member and Rowing National Champion
Student Wins Undergraduate Research Award
Department of Applied Computing & Electronics student Clayton Anderson recently completed a research project involving variable power states in computing labs on the COT East campus. Clayton's research, entitled "Energy Usage Study of Student Computing Facilities at the University of Montana" won the best oral presentation in the category of Physical Sciences at 2011 UM Undergraduate Research Conference. Associate Professor Tom Gallagher was Anderson's faculty mentor. Using power management software, a MS Windows GPO provided by Energy Star, routine schedules, and regular idle periods between classes Anderson's plan applied to the 6 computer labs on the COT East Campus would save the University of Montana approximately 9,684 kWh or 6.82 metric tons of CO2 annually. Clayton and all the other winners were honored at the Mansfield Library undergraduate research exhibition and each received a $100 gift card to the UM Bookstore.
Energy Interns Complete Solar Installation
UM Energy Technology students Ryan Parks and Robert Holter interned with Simple Power’s owner Mark Dickson and crew Brad Stevens, Jona Malo, Lyle Pilon, and Mike McCraken to install the Montana’s largest PV array to this point. The array weighs in at 70KW of output and is located on a private ranch near Choteau Montana. The grid tie array utilizing Sanyo panels and Fronius inverters is not only the largest in the state but it is the first in the area to use the German manufactured Solar Linea (by Conergy) rack system. According to owner Mark Dickerson “the install went very well, the crew worked well together and the installation came together with few problems in the field showing the benefit of having time to think through the design and implementation of project anticipating most all of the problems prior to starting. The system has gone through the final commissioning process and has an output of 105% of the expected rated output, and the new owner is very satisfied stating “I feel like we really have done something here!”
MS Network Administrator Academy
The College of Technology will be hosting a Microsoft Networking Academy beginning June 15. The course is taught by Dianne Burke, a faculty member from the Applied Computing and Electronics Department. The course starting next week is one of a three-part series in MS Windows Server 2008. View the entire schedule and get an application here.
Human Powered Vehicle Challenge
University of Montana students, primarily in the Energy Technology program, competed in the West Division of the Human Powered Vehicle Challenge in Bozeman, MT. This was the first year that UM joined the competition. Captained by Marty Lamb, who graduated from the Energy Technology program the same weekend, the team won the award for sustainablity. Read the whole Missoulian article here.
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