Tag: UL Lafayette

Exploring Your Science Passion: Science Day 2023 at UL at Lafayette

Are you a high school student curious about the fascinating world of science and its myriad possibilities? Well, you’re in luck! The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is gearing up to host Science Day 2023, an enlightening event that will give you a sneak peek into the life of a science major at their esteemed Ray P. Authement College of Sciences. Sponsored by Halliburton, this event promises to be an incredible journey into the realm of science, offering a plethora of enriching experiences for high school seniors and juniors, parents, teachers, and guidance counselors, according to this news release from the school.

Science Day 2023 is designed to provide an immersive experience in the world of science. Attendees will have the opportunity to witness captivating laboratory experiments and cutting-edge research and technology demonstrations. Moreover, they will be treated to enlightening presentations in various scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, computer science, informatics, geology, environmental science, mathematics, and physics.

But that’s not all; Science Day goes beyond just theoretical knowledge. It’s about fostering a genuine connection between aspiring scientists and the academic and professional world. Participants will have the chance to interact withUL Lafayette’s esteemed faculty and staff members, engage with passionate students, and network with industry professionals. This unique blend of experiences will provide invaluable insights into courses, degree programs, research opportunities, student organizations, and potential career paths associated with different scientific disciplines.

One of the highlights of Science Day is the exclusive tour of the College of Sciences‘ state-of-the-art facilities. These tours will offer a glimpse into the world of academia and research, allowing you to envision yourself as a part of this dynamic community. Additionally, there will be a thought-provoking question and answer session with UL Lafayette alumni who have successfully forged careers in various science-related fields. Their stories and advice will inspire and guide you on your own journey.

Dr. Michael Totaro, an associate professor in the School of Computing and Informatics and the graduate coordinator for the school’s Informatics Master’s Degree program, emphasized the significance of Science Day. He stated that the event is meticulously structured to instill “a sense of excitement about science, its possibilities, and its capacity for exploration and discovery.” Dr. Totaro also highlighted that Science Day plays a crucial role in assisting students in understanding the processes and programs that facilitate a seamless transition from high school to university life.These encompass essential aspects like admissions, housing, financial aid, and scholarships.

To give a more detailed understanding of what awaits you at Science Day 2023, let’s break down some of the key activities and features:

  • “A Day in the Life”: Students will get to experience a typical day in the life of a science major. This will involve up-close and personal laboratory demonstrations and engaging presentations in various scientific fields, such as Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science and Informatics, Geology and Environmental Science, Mathematics, and Physics.
  • Connecting with the Community: Science Day offers the opportunity to connect with students’ future College of Sciences peers, faculty members, and staff. This is a chance to gain insights into classes, student organizations, research opportunities, and more.
  • Navigating the University World: Wondering about admissions, dual enrollment, financial aid, housing, or scholarships? Science Day provides a platform to interact with university personnel who can provide answers to all questions and help students plan their academic journey.
  • Building Your Future: The event also brings you face-to-face with potential employers and representatives from UL Lafayette Career Services. This will be invaluable in helping students start planning their future career path.

Science Day 2023, sponsored by Halliburton, is an extraordinary opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to explore their passion for science. It’s a day filled with discovery, learning, and inspiration. Best of all, there is no admission charge, and the event is open to the public.

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UL Lafayette and First Solar: Partners in Progress for a Sustainable Future

In a groundbreaking announcement, First Solar, the largest solar energy manufacturer in the Western Hemisphere, unveiled plans to build its fifth U.S. manufacturing facility at Acadiana Regional Airport in New Iberia, Louisiana, and they plan to rely on research from UL Lafayette, according to this news release.

This exciting development represents a monumental investment, with First Solar allocating a staggering $1.1 billion into this project—a sum believed to be the largest single capital investment in the region’s history. Notably, this strategic location places the facility within close proximity to UL Lafayette, fostering a symbiotic relationship that will undoubtedly shape the future of solar energy in the area.

First Solar has ambitious goals for this new venture, aiming to create over 700 direct jobs with an annual payroll exceeding $40 million. A significant portion of the workforce will be sourced from UL Lafayette, underlining the close collaboration between the university and the solar energy giant. The facility’s primary objective is to produce high-performance photovoltaic (PV) solar modules, with construction anticipated to conclude by 2026.

Beyond job creation and economic development, First Solar envisions a deep partnership with UL Lafayette researchers across various domains, including technology development. The company also plans to offer internship opportunities for students and utilize university facilities for testing and training. Central to this collaboration is Antoun Hall, home to the Louisiana Solar Energy Lab—a sprawling 4,200-panel solar field spread across 6 acres. Adjacent to this field is a 4,500-square-foot building at University Research Park. This combined solar field and lab position UL Lafayette as a hub for solar research, technology development, instruction, training, outreach, and workforce development.

Dr. Ramesh Kolluru, the University’s Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Economic Development, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of collaborations between research universities like UL Lafayette, industry partners, and local entities like Acadiana Planning Commission, One Acadiana, Lafayette Economic Development Authority, and Iberia Parish leaders. These collaborations have been instrumental in achieving economic development milestones, facilitated by the impactful work of researchers like Dr. Chambers.

The Louisiana Economic Development (LED) estimates that in addition to the direct jobs created by First Solar, the presence of the company will result in at least 694 new indirect jobs. When combined with the 700 new direct jobs, this equates to a total of approximately 1,400 new jobs in the Acadiana region. Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwardscelebrated this achievement, asserting that the selection of Iberia Parish for First Solar’s new solar panel production facility signifies Louisiana’s leadership in the global energy transition and the creation of well-paying jobs.

First Solar stands out among the world’s top 10 solar manufacturers as the only U.S.-headquartered company not manufacturing in China. Their tellurium-based semiconductor technology allows them to bypass dependence on Chinese crystalline silicon supply chains, making them a unique player in the industry. Mark Widmar, Chief Executive Officer of First Solar, emphasized their commitment to creating enduring value for America by expanding solar manufacturing and domestic value chains. The new Louisiana facility will be tasked with producing First Solar’s Series 7 modules, which are expected to be manufactured with 100% U.S.-made components. This aligns with current domestic content guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Treasury. Once the factory is operational, Series 7 modules will account for over two-thirds of First Solar’s annual domestic nameplate capacity.

In closing, First Solar’s monumental investment in Louisiana signifies a turning point in the renewable energy landscape. It showcases the power of collaboration between industry leaders like First Solar and esteemed educational institutions like UL Lafayette in propelling the nation toward a sustainable energy future. As we witness the convergence of cutting-edge technology and academia, the benefits will not only be economic but also environmental, reinforcing the significance of investing in renewable energy sources.

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Reading Instruction at University of Louisiana at Lafayette Recognized by NCTQ

Effective reading instruction is crucial for the development of elementary school students, so it’s all the more essential and impressive that The University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s College of Education & Human Development has recently received recognition for its exceptional undergraduate elementary teacher preparation program, as per this news release from the school. In a national report by the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ), the program was awarded an impressive “A: grade. This non-profit education research and policy organization based in Washington, D.C., evaluated programs across the country to determine their effectiveness in equipping future teachers with the necessary knowledge and skills for teaching reading.

Dr. Toby Daspit, a professor in the College of Education & Human Development and the leader of the Department of Educational Curriculum and Instruction, emphasized the importance of scientifically based instruction methods in combating high illiteracy rates nationwide. These comprehensive approaches provided by the NCTQ offer a solid foundation for future elementary teachers to address the reading needs of their students effectively.

According to the NCTQ, more than one-third of fourth-grade students in the United States struggle to read at a basic level. By recognizing and accrediting programs that effectively teach reading instruction, the NCTQ aims to improve the quality of education and combat the literacy crisis. The acknowledgment received by the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s College of Education & Human Development highlights the dedication of its faculty members and the innovative curriculum they have developed to meet current national and state needs.

The NCTQ analyzed various elements of the syllabi, lecture schedules, background reading materials, class assessments, assignments, and opportunities for practice in required literacy courses offered to undergraduate elementary teacher candidates. Their evaluation aimed to assess the programs’ effectiveness in teaching the five core components of scientifically-based reading instruction, as defined by the NCTQ:

  1. Phonemic awareness: The recognition of sounds made by spoken words.
  2. Phonics: Mapping those sounds onto letters and combinations of letters.
  3. Fluency: The ability to read with speed, accuracy, and proper expression.
  4. Vocabulary: Expanding students’ word knowledge.
  5. Comprehension: Enhancing students’ understanding of what they read.

The NCTQ is a nonpartisan organization founded in 2000 with the goal of ensuring every child has effective teachers and every teacher has the opportunity to be effective. With two decades of research and policy analysis, the NCTQfocuses on aligning teacher preparation to research-driven practices and strengthening policies and practices related to teacher quality. Their work encompasses areas such as recruitment, assignment, evaluation, development, and compensation. The organization is staffed by former teachers and funded by various foundations and philanthropic individuals, excluding federal funding.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s College of Education & Human Development is dedicated to preparing future educators who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and empathy necessary to make a positive impact on the lives of their students. The college offers a comprehensive range of programs and degrees, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various fields of education. Students have the opportunity to engage in practical experiences, internships, and research projects that enhance their understanding of educational theories and practices.

ULL’s College of Education & Human Development has achieved significant recognition for its undergraduate elementary teacher preparation program, particularly in the field of reading instruction. By aligning their curriculumwith research-driven practices and addressing the five core components of scientifically based reading instruction, the program equips future teachers with the necessary skills to promote strong literacy skills in elementary students. The NCTQ’s evaluation and acknowledgment reflect the university’s commitment to excellence in education and its dedication to producing highly skilled and effective teachers.

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Champions in Mechanical Engineering: UL Lafayette Students Excel at National Fluid Power Vehicle Final Challenge

In the realm of mechanical engineering, innovation, and competition go hand in hand. A shining example of this can be found in the remarkable achievements of a group of students from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. These students, namely Austin Sun Chee Fore, Brett Hildreth, Chase Jeansonne, and Michael Tonore, have etched their names in the annals of excellence by earning the grand championship at the prestigious 2023 Fluid Power Vehicle Final Challenge, according to this news release from ULL. Hosted by Danfoss Power Solutions in Ames, Iowa, this competition brought together brilliant minds from various universities to showcase their prowess in the field.

Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is fluid power? Well, it involves the transmission of power through the use of either liquid, known as hydraulics, or compressed air, known as pneumatics. The Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge, in which these talented students participated, provides a platform for students to delve deep into research, design, and the construction of vehicles that incorporate both hydraulics and pneumatics, along with components inspired by bicycles. These innovative vehicles are meticulously crafted to combine performance efficiency, speed, and power, leading to remarkable technological advancements.

The UL Lafayette team’s extraordinary performance did not stop at the grand championship. They triumphed in several other competition categories as well, showcasing their comprehensive expertise. They secured the first position in both the endurance and sprint races, displaying their unwavering determination and unmatched speed. Furthermore, their midway and final presentations earned them well-deserved accolades, emphasizing their exceptional communication and presentation skills. In the highly competitive regenerative braking category, they achieved a commendable third place, highlighting their commitment to sustainable engineering solutions.

The Fluid Power Vehicle Challenge culminates in two final events held in different locations, where the participants showcase their vehicles and their skills in vehicle construction and testing. These events encompass thrilling races and captivating presentations, all of which are meticulously evaluated by industry professionals who serve as judges. It is worth mentioning that the national competition, held in Littleton, Colorado, was won by Texas A&M University, showcasing the intense competition among the participating institutions. The National Fluid Power Association, based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, takes the reins in coordinating these events, as their primary focus lies in promoting and advancing fluid power technology.

Behind the scenes, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Department of Mechanical Engineering boasts exceptional faculty advisors who have guided and nurtured the fluid power team throughout their journey. Yasmeen Qudsi, a senior instructor, and John Carroll, an instructor, have played instrumental roles in mentoring and advising the team, channeling their expertise and knowledge to bring out the best in the students. Their dedication and commitment to the team have undoubtedly contributed to their resounding success.

The achievements of the UL Lafayette mechanical engineering students at the Fluid Power Vehicle Final Challengeserve as a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering excellence in education and preparing students for real-world challenges. It showcases the intersection of theoretical knowledge and practical application, highlighting the importance of hands-on experiences in engineering education. The fluid power challenge provides students with an opportunity to apply their classroom learning to real-life scenarios, allowing them to develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and effective teamwork, which are crucial for success in the engineering industry.

Aspiring engineers can draw inspiration from the remarkable achievements of these students and their advisors. The Department of Mechanical Engineering at UL Lafayette stands as a testament to the institution’s commitment to providing a comprehensive and rigorous education in mechanical engineering. By equipping students with the necessary tools, knowledge, and opportunities, the department nurtures their talents and enables them to excel in their chosen fields.

In conclusion, the recent triumph of the UL Lafayette mechanical engineering students at the 2023 Fluid Power Vehicle Final Challenge is a testament to their exceptional skills, relentless dedication, and the invaluable support of their faculty advisors. This achievement not only brings pride to the University but also highlights the significance of experiential learning and hands-on opportunities in engineering education. The Department of Mechanical Engineering at UL Lafayette continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the engineers of tomorrow, empowering them to make a lasting impact in the world of engineering and beyond.

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UL Lafayette Geosciences Team named Top Oil Prospectors

Recently, a group of geosciences students from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette competed in the 2023 North American Region Competition, where they were named the best team of students in North America who can determine where to drill for oil, according to this feature article from the University.

UL Lafayette’s team of competing geosciences students included Savana Anderson, Peyton Dardeau, Margaret Dittman and Abigail Watson, also known collectively as the University’s Imperial Barrel team. The team’s faculty advisor was Dr. David Oppo, an assistant professor in the School of Geosciences. This four-student team, which consisted of both undergraduate and graduate students,  placed first for the Imperial Barrel Award for the 2023 North American Region Competition, which is a competition for the American Association of Petroleum Geologists.

Dr. Carl Richter, Associated Dean of Ray P. Authement College of Sciences and Professor at the School of Geosciences, spoke about the team saying, “this doesn’t place the School’s teams in exclusive company. It’s more like a private club. Over the years, the teams achieved a level of preeminence that’s not likely to be equaled anytime soon. It reflects the quality of students the School of Geosciences attracts and the strength of our graduate program.”

The American Association of Petroleum Geologists’ competition functions as a competitive showcase for students to collaborate as they analyze industry data, make key determinations about energy resources, and make vital decisions about sustainable extraction methods. Because the University’s Imperial Barrel team won the North American Region competition after winning the Gulf Coast sectional, they will be coming on to the world competition.

Last year, the ULL’s Imperial Barrel team placed second in the world and have won the overall event three times in the past: in 2012, 2014, and 2018. It should be noted that they are the only team to claim the title of “world’s best” three times in the history of the award.

The competition involved the students analyzing real datasets including information on basin’s geology, petroleum system elements, geophysics, and production infrastructures over the course of eight weeks. Throughout the competition, the four team members used state-of-the-art technology, received feedback from industry advisors, and networked with potential employers. The competition’s main goal includes identifying a prospective oil reservoir and determining its overall viability. The team then reports its verdict during a 25 minute presentation to industry experts, who then select a winner based on technical quality, clarity, and the originality of the presentation.

Joey Grimball was a previous winner for UL Lafayette during the 2012 competition, and he had the following to say about his involvement in the competition and the impact it has had on his career: “the IBA experience has been the culmination of my coursework at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. By using the knowledge we attained from previous courses we as a team were able to put together a prospect evaluation starting at the Basin analysis level with the understanding of regional geology, paleogeography, maturation of the source rocks, trapping mechanisms, reservoirs and seals in our area.

These past three months we have grown as individuals and gained insight into how real world petroleum prospectsare put together. Through our interaction with Industry professionals and advice given to us through our Advisor we have a better understanding of how Industry operates. Also the presentation skills along with the networking that we have been able to do through this process have added up to be the best experience of my academic career. I hope to be a part of the IBA experience for years to come.”

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UL Lafayette To Start Only Smart Oilfield Concentration in Nation

This upcoming fall semester, students enrolled in the College of Engineering at  The University of Louisiana at Lafayette will be able to pursue the only Smart Oilfield concentration in the nation. The announcement of this ground-breaking concentration is according to a news release from the school, where courses are set to begin this fall for the new concentration.

Specifically, the Smart Oilfield concentration is a pathway from ULL’s College of Engineering that is designed for petroleum engineering majors who are preparing for a career in the oil and gas industry, one that involves an increasing reliance on ever-evolving technology for efficient, safe, and environmentally-sound and stable exploration and production.

According to the Dean of the University’s College of Engineering, Dr. Ahmed Khattab, the new Smart Oilfield concentration is the only program of its kind in the entirety of the United States of America. Dr. Khattab commented on the necessity of establishing such a concentration by saying, “its addition is part of our comprehensive plan to address conventional and renewable energy by providing cutting-edge degree programs, minors, and concentrations that augment our traditional energy base and meet industry and community needs.”

According to Dr. Khattab, the new concentration will be able to integrate the College of Engineering’s current petroleum engineering degree program’s sub-surface expertise with data analytics, machine learning, and smart drilling. The concentration will also reportedly feature a combined blend of both traditional courses and interactive labs that will focus on automation, carbon capture, coding, computational fluid dynamics, machine learning, predictive capabilities, smart drilling, statistics, and the economic feasibility of exploration in specific locations.

According to Dr. Rafael Hernandez, the Interim Department Head of the Department of Petroleum Engineering, the curriculum for the Smart Oilfield concentration was developed based on extensive, data-driven research. The concentration was created in conjunction with input from professionals who work in the oil and gas industry, an entire field that has, according to Dr. Hernandez, “undergone a significant transformation in recent years.”

Dr. Hernandez continued to underline the necessity of evolving their program by continuing to outline the Oil and Gas industry by saying, “it now relies on a system of sensors, networks, and integrated operations that generate and communicate field and data analyses to ensure more environmentally friendly, safe and cost-efficient oil exploration, production and management.”

Outside of the new Smart Oilfield concentration, ULL’s College of Engineering has added eight other concentrations in the last two years in order to address recent trends in the industry and needs in fields that have been growing faster than the national average. For instance, employment opportunities for petroleum engineers are projected to increase by 8% through 2029, and employment opportunities for engineers are projected to increase 6% through 2029, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics.
According to Dr. Khattab, the total 9 concentrations that have been added by the College of Engineering have been added for a variety of well-informed reasons. Dr. Khattab said, “These are strategic additions implemented to ensure we continually give our graduates the knowledge and skills they will need for the jobs they want, and that will position them to thrive and advance in their careers.

Besides the Smart Oilfield concentration, the other 8 new concentrations are: autonomous and robotic systems; bioengineering; computer engineering; engineering management; power and sustainable energy; secure smart systems; sustainable energy systems; and water resources and environmental engineering.

According to the Department of Petroleum Engineering, the above new concentrations are made all-the-more valuable as the “UL Lafayette Petroleum Engineering (PETE) program ranks among the top in the nation and is recognized across the globe. It is the only academic program in the U.S. providing education and training for students to demonstrate compliance with the International Association of Drilling Contractors’ Well Sharp Certification, an industry-standard credential that ensures knowledge of cost and efficiency optimization and risk minimization during drilling operations.”

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