November 6, 2024

“Tomorrow's Needs” is a series of opinion pieces from leaders around campus on the role that Michigan Tech innovators will play to define the world’s emerging needs.

In President Rick Koubek’s September article, he asked: “In 2035, what will society’s most pressing questions be? And what are Michigan Tech’s best opportunities for answering those questions?”

Continuing the discussion, College of Sciences and Arts Dean LaReesa Wolfenbarger and Caryn Heldt, director of Michigan Tech's Health Research Institute and professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering, present three big questions about how to build and sustain a healthy society.

“Using the successful framework that produced the rapid advances in lifespan and health in the 20th century, tomorrow’s leaders will continue to seek solutions to challenges in health care and the environment,” they write. “Technological solutions to these pressing problems will be the cornerstone of future innovation.”

Read their full article at Michigan Tech News.

The Essential Education leadership team is continuing their office hours at the Van Pelt and Opie Library through the end of the fall 2024 semester.

These meetings will take place in the Library 103 conference room from noon to 1 p.m. on the following dates:

• Thursday, Nov. 7
• Wednesday, Nov. 13 — Guest expert Jeannie DeClerk will discuss Essential Ed assessment inquiries
• Thursday, Nov. 21 — Guest expert Nancy Barr will discuss folio thinking and how you can explore the PebblePad platform
• Wednesday, Nov. 27 — Canceled due to Thanksgiving
• Thursday, Dec. 5
• Wednesday, Dec. 11

Feel free to attend and share your questions. If none of these dates present an opportune time for you to meet with our team, please contact Steve Patchin at shpatchi@mtu.edu with questions you may have and we will get you the appropriate answer.

Thanks for your interest in working with Michigan Tech’s Essential Education team.

Bo Xiao (CEGE) has been awarded a Sustainable & Resilient Communities Early Career Research Award by the Center for Innovation in Sustainability and Resilience (CISR).

Xiao's early career research award will support the following work:

• Use digital twin methods and predictive climate modeling tools to quantify the benefits and burdens of building wildfire resilience retrofits by climate region using a novel integrated dynamic digital twin-based modeling and simulation approach.
• Analyze the interactions between wildfire resilience retrofits and underlying aspects of “whole life” carbon emissions reduction using sensitivity analysis.
• Determine the benefits and burdens of building wildfire retrofits under future climate scenarios.

The Van Pelt and Opie Library offers access to The New York Times to all of our MTU students, faculty and staff. New this semester, users can link their NYT account to Apple Podcasts and Spotify to continue unlimited access.

Link NYT to Apple Podcasts.

Link NYT to Spotify.

Simply open the link to your preferred app on your mobile device, then log in with your NYT credentials. You will be directed to authenticate with your Michigan Tech username and password.

Please reach out to library@mtu.edu for more information.

Join the William G. Jackson Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) every Thursday from 2:30-3:30 p.m. in Library 243 for casual conversations over your favorite beverage from Velodrome (compliments of the CTL). Educators from across campus can come together to exchange ideas, thoughts and experiences related to teaching.

Have you been looking for ways to make the problem-solving process more engaging for students? Then you will want to join us this week as our faculty fellow, Aneet Narendranath (MAE), shares his successes with using story problems. Story problems have the characteristics of being well-specified problems that involve some quantitative "to-do" and are able to deployed in a short time frame (e.g., a class session or timed exam).

Hope you can join us! Our sessions offer an open, informal space to share teaching ideas, learn from each other and collaborate — no agenda or presentations, just rich conversation! Come connect, relax and enjoy some time with colleagues over a warm beverage.

Registration is open for Camp Rec! This event is a supervised day program on Nov. 27 full of awesome activities.

Register Your Student for Camp Rec!

Overview:
If your student has no school on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and you're looking for something fun they can do, sign them up for Camp Rec! The camp lasts from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Michigan Tech SDC. It is open to students in grades 4-6, with a maximum of 24 participants. Cost is $90 per participant.

You can expect a jam-packed schedule (with supervision), where your students get to swim in the pool, skate on the same ice as the Michigan Tech Huskies, and so much more! We will utilize the spaces the SDC has to offer to ensure your kids have fun at Michigan Tech.

Schedule:

• Check-In: 8:30-9 a.m. at the SDC front counter
• Basketball/Volleyball: 9-10 a.m. in the Multipurpose Room, Courts 1 & 2
• Kickball: 10-10:45 a.m. in the Multipurpose Room, Courts 1 & 2
• Open Swim: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the SDC Pool
• Lunch*: 12:15-1:15 p.m. in the Blueline Room
• Open Skate: 1:30-2:30 in the Ice Arena
• Ping Pong/Dodgeball: 2:45-4 p.m. on Racquetball Courts 3 & 4
• Check-Out: 4 p.m. at the SDC front counter

* Lunch is not provided. Participants will need to bring their own food and drinks.

Learn more about Camp Rec at Michigan Tech Recreation.

Questions? Contact us at 906-487-2975 or recreation@mtu.edu.

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) is hosting a virtual seminar presented by John Sosa, CEO and co-founder of MIPAR Software, from 1-2 p.m. tomorrow, Nov. 7.

Sosa will deliver his seminar through Zoom. Sriram Vijayan (MSE) will have the Zoom session running in M&M 610.

Join the MSE Seminar on Zoom.

Sosa will present “Automated, Accelerated, Accurate: The Impact of AI on Modern Metallography.”

From the abstract:
Automated metallographic analysis is not a new concept. Even after decades of development, automation has only been narrowly adopted, and much of today’s metallography is still performed by hand. Though the time savings and cost reduction are often obvious, automation will only be accepted for a given application if the solution: accurately identifies the features of interest, meets custom requirements, is simple to run, and can be validated.

The advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has enabled more solutions to meet these criteria. When deployed in the right environment, there are substantial implications for automated metallography, blending objectivity, speed, and accessibility. The intersection of AI with classical processing allows refined and customized analysis algorithms to be developed without extensive training sets. For many applications, breakthrough generalized computer vision models allow robust and fully automated solutions to be configured with minimal experience. For the extraordinarily challenging and highly specific problems, those same generalized models enable rapid precise feature annotation, accelerating production and elevating performance of custom-trained models that end up at the core of these problem's solutions.

This seminar will present how, as a result of these technologies, metallography automation has never been more broadly applicable or accessible. Software systems can now "see" even the most complex objects, while high-throughout batch processing and professional reporting allow solutions to transfer from R&D to production and QC environments. The presentation will cover applications including, but not limited to: grain size measurement from various alloys and imaging conditions, secondary phase detection and quantification, and particle size analysis.

Sosa received his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Ohio State University while focusing on characterization of titanium alloys. He continues to support automated image analysis solution development while driving business development and overseeing product innovation at MIPAR Software.

Stephen Sebestyen, research hydrologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, will present "Water, Carbon, and Metal Responses To Climatic and Environmental change in Northern Peatlands" as part of both the Ecosystem Science Center's (ESC's) Distinguished Ecologist Lecture Series and the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science (CFRES) Fall Seminar Series.

All are welcome to join us tomorrow, Nov. 7, at 12:30 p.m. in Noblet G002 or virtually via Zoom.

Join the ESC/CFRES Seminar on Zoom.

Sebestyen studies how water, nutrients and pollutant solutes flow through the landscape and affect streams, lakes or wetlands. He devotes portions of his time to research at the Marcell Experimental Forest (MEF) and national-scale syntheses of data from multiple catchment studies. He is an investigator in the SPRUCE experiment ("Spruce and Peatland Responses Under Changing Environments"), a large-scale experiment in which above- and below-ground temperatures are being manipulated in peatland at the MEF.

Sebestyen also contributes to studies of lakes, streams, wetlands and watersheds elsewhere in Minnesota, around the USA and abroad. He has served as co-editor-in-chief of the international journal Biogeochemistry since January 2024.

The next Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) Graduate Seminar Speaker will present at 4 p.m. tomorrow, Nov. 7, in MEEM 112.

David Genter will present “Concept Design Phase Systems Risk Assessment Using Early System-Level Understanding.”

Genter's significant contributions to his field lie in designing several internal combustion engine systems and electrified drivetrain systems for large mobile off-highway applications. He has repeatedly showcased his unique ability to efficiently design class-leading projects from clean-sheet. Notably, he played a pivotal role as the design leader for the QSK95 (95-liter) engine system platform — Cummins’ largest.

The next Environmental Engineering Graduate Seminar will take place at 3 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 11, in GLRC 202.

Xiang Li, assistant professor of geological engineering at Michigan Tech, will present "Integrating Satellite Remote Sensing and Geotechnical Modelling: A New Frontier to Predict Geosystem Failure."

Read Li's abstract and bio on the University Events Calendar.

Michigan Tech hockey's second-year forward Max Koskipirtti has been named the CCHA Forward of the Week. He led the CCHA with four points on the weekend.

Koskipirtti helped lead Michigan Tech to a CCHA sweep of Northern Michigan on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 1 and 2. He scored a power-play goal Friday in a 3-0 win in Marquette and added a goal and two assists in a 6-3 victory on Saturday in Houghton.

Read more hockey news at Michigan Tech Athletics.

Wednesday, Nov. 6
• Overwatch has a BYE

Thursday, Nov. 7
• Call of Duty will face off against Cumberland University at 8:30 p.m.

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Esports News
Read more in the MTU Esports weekly update.

Missed a game? Past MTU Esports streams are available on YouTube.

Job Posting for Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024

Staff and faculty job descriptions are available on the Human Resources website. For more information regarding staff positions, call 906-487-2280 or email humanresources@mtu.edu. For more information regarding faculty positions, contact the academic department in which the position is posted.

Program Coordinator, College of Computing. Apply online.

Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Accommodations are available. If you require any auxiliary aids, services, or other accommodations to apply for employment, or for an interview, at Michigan Technological University, please notify the Human Resources office at 906-487-2280 or humanresources@mtu.edu.

Erin Smith (HU) was quoted by the Keweenaw Report in a story about the 10th annual 41 North Film Festival, which opens tomorrow, Nov. 7, at the Rozsa Center. Smith highlighted the festival’s free access and unique panel discussions involving faculty and community members.

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The Daily Mining Gazette mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about Michigan’s early voting period. The article highlighted the Huskies Vote Early event held Sunday, Nov. 3, organized by MTU’s Student Leadership and Involvement and Michigan United. The event provided shuttles between campus and the Houghton City Center, allowing students and community members to participate in Houghton County’s nine-day early voting period.

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The Daily Mining Gazette mentioned Michigan Tech’s Young Americans for Freedom student organization in a story about their second annual military care package drive, which is collecting items for deployed troops through Nov. 16.

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TechCentury mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about Michigan’s “You Can in Michigan” talent attraction campaign. As part of the campaign, the Michigan Talent Solutions Division awarded 268 scholarships, with 1,049 students participating in the Michigander Scholars program at universities across Michigan — including Michigan Tech.

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The Daily Mining Gazette covered Michigan Tech hockey’s Max Koskipirtti being named CCHA Forward of the Week.

Educational Session: Export Controls and Foreign National Restrictions

The Vice President for Research Office will host an educational session on the topics of export controls and foreign national restrictions from noon to 1:30 p.m. tomorrow, Nov. 6, in the Memorial Union Building Ballroom.

This session is designed to help faculty and staff understand and address export controls/foreign national restrictions considerations when conducting research. Topics covered will include: managing technical data, intellectual property and proprietary materials; defining and working with foreign nationals, publishing and teaching; and exporting and licensing considerations.

Please reach out to rd-l@mtu.edu with any questions.

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Important Updates on MTU's Health Care Plans and Open Enrollment

As the Michigan Tech community prepares for the upcoming 2025 Benefits Open Enrollment period, I want to take a moment to share some important updates. Open Enrollment will begin Monday, Nov. 11, and run through Nov. 25.

Open Enrollment is an opportunity for you to review your current benefit elections and ensure they meet your needs for the upcoming year. This year, all benefits eligible employees must participate in Open Enrollment, regardless of whether or not you intend to make any changes to your current benefits elections.

Over the last four years, the University has absorbed a net increase of $8.9 million, or 45.1%, in health care costs. Over the next two years, we are projecting an additional 23.4% increase in health care costs. Taking this into account, the University has made changes to next year’s benefit packages. For example, those employees participating in the HDHP1 plan can expect their monthly premium for an employee plus family to increase by $12 in addition to a few other changes to the out-of-pocket maximum and the coinsurance percentage.

We encourage all benefits eligible employees to take the time to review the changes to next year’s benefits package and to consider attending one of our informational sessions for detailed guidance. The dates for these sessions are provided below. Zoom access will be available for each session.

• Wednesday, Nov. 6, from 10-11 a.m. in MUB Ballroom A*
  Join the Nov. 6 info session on Zoom

• Thursday, Nov. 14, from 1-2 p.m. in MUB Ballroom A
  Join the Nov. 14 info session on Zoom

• Tuesday, Nov. 19, from 5-6 p.m. in MUB Ballroom A
  Join the Nov. 19 info session on Zoom

* The first informational session will be recorded and posted on the Open Enrollment website.

Please visit the Open Enrollment website for more information on the 2025 changes and to access resources that will help you navigate your options. Our Benefits Services team is available to assist with any questions or concerns you may have during this time. Please direct any questions to hr-help@mtu.edu or 906-487-2517.

This year, we will also introduce a new online platform for Open Enrollment called Employee Navigator, which is designed to make choosing and managing your benefits easier. Please visit the Open Enrollment website for more information.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your continued dedication to our Michigan Tech community.

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This Week's C-Cubed Luncheon Menu

Carved and Crafted Catering at Michigan Technological University invites you to join the C-Cubed Luncheon, held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. every Thursday in the Memorial Union Alumni Lounge (MUB 107). All faculty and staff, along with their guests, are invited.

Menu for Thursday, Nov. 7:

• Chicken Tikka Masala (AG) (PR)
• Potato, Garbanzo and Pea Coconut Curry (VG) (AG)
• Basmati Rice (VG) (AG)
• Garam Cauliflower and Chickpea (VG) (AG) (CF)
• Garlic Naan (V) (PR)
• Kachumber Salad (VG) (AG)

The C-Cubed lunch buffet menus are created and prepared by Chef Luis Delgado and his culinary team. As the name suggests, the meals are meant to foster conversation, community and collegiality. Attendees may bring their lunch instead of purchasing the buffet. Fruit-infused water, coffee, tea and cookies are available free to all attendees. All vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free items on the buffet are labeled for easy identification. No takeout service or personal containers are permitted.

The buffet lunch is $15.50 per person. Cash, credit cards and gift cards are accepted. Gift cards can be purchased in the Memorial Union Office (MUB 101).

You can submit C-Cubed feedback using C-Cubed Survey/Comments form. To join the C-Cubed Luncheon Email List and receive weekly menus, please complete the sign-up form.

To have your event automatically appear, please submit them to the University Events Calendar.

Open Enrollment Informational Session

Wednesday, November 6, 10–11 a.m. | MUB - Ballroom A

Michigan Tech's Open Enrollment is an annual opportunity to assess your individual or family health benefits needs. This year's 2025 Benefits Open Enrollment will begin on...

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CFRES Resume Review

Wednesday, November 6, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. | U.J. Noblet Forestry Building, Atrium

Career Services and friends will review your resume and help you get ready for the Natural Resources Career Fair.

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Educational Session: Export Controls and Foreign National Restrictions

Wednesday, November 6, 12:00–1:30 p.m. | Memorial Union Building (MUB), Ballroom

The Office of the Vice President for Research will host an educational session, "Review of Export Controls and Foreign National Restrictions," from noon to 1:30 p.m. on...

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Electron Microscopy Consultation Sessions

Wednesday, November 6, 1–3 p.m. | Minerals and Materials Engineering Building (M&M), 607

As part of ACMAL actions to strengthen the electron microscopy user base at Tech, Dr. Erico Freitas is offering a few hours of free-of-charge consultations in November for the...

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Café Français - French Conversation Hour

Wednesday, November 6, 4–5 p.m. | Walker Arts and Humanities Center, HDMZ 120C

Café Français, the French conversation hour group invites you to join! Practice your French, explore the French-speaking world, and meet new people. Meetings are from 4-5, at...

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Husky Innovate: Lean Start-up Methodology Workshop

Wednesday, November 6, 5–6 p.m. | Minerals and Materials Engineering Building (M&M), U113

Husky Innovate is Michigan Tech’s resource hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. A collaboration between the College of Business, Office of Innovation and...

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Python Workshop

Wednesday, November 6, 5–6 p.m. | Rekhi 113

A free, in person, python workshop for beginners!

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SoundGirls General Meeting!

Wednesday, November 6, 5–6 p.m. | Walker 210

SoundGirls strives to empower women and minorities in the audio industry. This year, we are working on a halloween themed reality TV show.

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Board Game Night

Wednesday, November 6, 6–8 p.m. | WADs Annex

Join Jim Grider and our student staff in the Wads Annex to connect with others over playing board games! Spend time practicing intentional self-care while destressing from the...

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Make A Difference Alumni Volunteer Day in Grand Rapids, MI

Wednesday, November 6, 6:00–7:30 p.m.

Join fellow Michigan Tech alumni and friends for a meaningful day of community service at Kids' Food Basket - Grand Rapids on Wednesday, November 6, from 6-7:30 p.m. Kids'...

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Natural Resources Career Fair - Presentations & Student/Employer Mixer

Wednesday, November 6, 6–8 p.m. | U.J. Noblet Forestry Building, G004

Are you interested in exploring exciting career opportunities in the natural resource sector? There will be a series of presentations from natural resource companies the...

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College of Business Information Session

Wednesday, November 6, 7–8 p.m.

Join us to learn more about the College of Business! This event is a great opportunity for you to hear current students share more about the college, the majors offered, and...