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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
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