Binghamton University and BAE Systems sign MOU, collaborate on Energy Storage Engine

Binghamton University and BAE Systems today announced they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that solidifies their mutual commitment to advancing power electronics and energy storage research and development, workforce development and testing initiatives.

Under the agreement, they will collaborate on research and development in materials, performance modeling, manufacturing processes and more for power and energy storage applications and develop education and workforce training programs that span high school to post-secondary education, continuing education, cooperative seminars, workshops and conferences.

"Our collaborations with BAE Systems are broad and deep, from providing direct support to our students to working with our faculty on cutting-edge research to partnering on an Engineering Leadership Development Program," University President Harvey Stenger said. "To collaborate with a global company such as BAE Systems further strengthens our position as a national leader in energy research with deep local impact right here in the Southern Tier and surrounding regions."

"We have had long-standing engagements with Binghamton University, and with Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science in particular, that have helped to advance energy and power management technology while also preparing the engineers that are shaping the industry," said Michael Crawford, senior director of engineering at BAE Systems. "Given our mutual interests in accelerating the next-generation technologies and future workforce in this arena, it is synergistic for academia and industry to work together to make this happen."

As part of BAE's collaborations with Binghamton University, it has long supported faculty research, student organizations and senior capstone projects at the Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science.

"We look forward to expanding our research and development activities with BAE," Watson College Dean Atul Kelkar said. "This agreement addresses strategic priorities for both BAE and the University that will advance the frontiers of engineering and technology for many years to come."

The agreement comes at a fortuitous time, according to Meera Sampath, CEO of the NSF Engines: Upstate New York Energy Storage Engine. "The Engine has served as a catalyst to accelerate the collaboration between BAE Systems, Binghamton University and SUNY Broome Community College, especially in the area of workforce development," she said. "We are delighted to welcome BAE Systems to the Engine and look forward to jointly supporting the creation of a strong talent pipeline for energy storage in the region."

BAE Systems will provide matching funds for workforce development grants that it receives from the NSF Engine and support internships for Engine-nominated students.

"SUNY Broome is proud to play a role in scaling up and supporting the development of a sustainable battery manufacturing, research and development infrastructure in Binghamton. Our own Robert Lofthouse, chair of the Engineering Science Department, collaborated closely with BAE Systems and Binghamton University to create a six-week, hands-on curriculum aimed at introducing students to the power and engineering management field," said Tony Hawkins, president of SUNY Broome Community College. "To date, 20 engineering science students have participated in the program, and many are interested in pursuing bachelor's degrees in engineering at Binghamton and entering the power and engineering management sector. We're eager to continue our partnership with the NSF Engine initiative, with plans to expand the program's reach and impact by engaging high school students across the region."

Energy storage technology will be key to the nation's clean energy transition. With place-based innovation programs such as the NSF Engine award, Build Back Better regional challenge award and the federal Tech Hub designation bringing significant federal and state support, the Southern Tier is establishing itself as the place for next-generation battery industry innovation and manufacturing.