VOICE OF THE COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE SINCE 1926
SOLAR WAFFLES, A LOUNGE FOR A LITTLE DREAMER, AND THE FUTURE OF ENGINEERING
www.uwplatt.edu/ems
(L-R) Zachary Jensen, ’25, engineering physics; Seth Schmidt, senior, mathematics; Emma DeCoster, junior, civil engineering; and Olivia Tingo, senior, mathematics, participate in the Face Off student mathematics game show at the Mathematics Association of America –Wisconsin Section meeting held at UW-Platteville on April 4, 2025.
The Geode has been the voice of the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science since 1926. Harkening from the days of the Wisconsin Mining College, the term “geode” was chosen as the title for the college’s bi-annual publication because though a geode looks like an ordinary rock on the outside, the inside is filled with extraordinary crystals.
As you break open our newest Geode, we hope you enjoy the crystals that showcase the fabulous endeavors of our faculty, staff, and students, as well as highlight the impactful involvement of our alumni and industry partners.
A MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN: SHAPING THE FUTURE OF ENGINEERING
Dear College of EMS Alumni and Friends,
Each year as we assemble this publication, I find myself invigorated by the stories we share—stories that illuminate not only where we’ve been, but where we are headed.
Across the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science, our faculty, students, and collaborators are embracing change and meeting tomorrow’s challenges with curiosity, creativity, and courage. From artificial intelligence to nanotechnology, from makerspaces to interdisciplinary innovation, the pace of transformation is extraordinary.
As highlighted in this issue, faculty like Dr. Hal Evensen, Professor, engineering physics and Dr. Xiaoguang Ma, Associate Professor, electrical and computer engineering, are bringing artificial intelligence into the heart of engineering education—not as a novelty, but as a practical and essential tool for modern problemsolving. Students are not just learning about AI; they’re using it to design sensor systems, create surveillance solutions, and generate adaptive course materials. At the same time, our colleagues in the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning are working closely with instructors to harness the power of generative AI in ways that enhance learning while preserving academic rigor.
Meanwhile, in spaces like the Huff Family Innovation Center, students are discovering that the maker mindset is about more than tools—it’s about possibility. As Director Andrew Woodward reminds us, “The key to our energy is the community as a whole.” Whether designing espresso technology, medical devices, or power grid improvements, our students are learning by doing, collaborating across disciplines, and redefining the way we innovate.
In our Innovation Fellows program, researchers like Dr. Gokul Gopalakrishnan, Professor, engineering physics, are guiding students through the world of micro- and nano-scale engineering, translating highly advanced research into real-world applications. His work in nanoscale materials not only advances semiconductor technologies but also empowers students to take their ideas from concept to commercialization— sometimes even launching startup ventures along the way.
To our readers: your support continues to shape our journey. Thank you for being part of this community of forward-thinkers and changemakers. I hope these stories spark your imagination and reaffirm your pride in what it means to be part of the UW-Platteville EMS legacy.
With appreciation and optimism,
Philip Parker, Ph.D., PE Dean, College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science
This year, UW-Platteville proudly celebrated national recognition for its state-of-the-art engineering facility, Sesquicentennial Hall with top honors from prestigious design organizations, highlighting its forward-thinking architecture, sustainable features, and student-centered design.
SQH won the Grand Prize Award from Learning by Design Magazine for outstanding higher-education architecture in projects under 100,000 square feet, and the Merit Award in the Large Scale Design category by the Wisconsin Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (WI ASLA).
Learning by Design judges praised its award-winning design: “It’s a fantastic project overall. The well-designed façade breaks up the large footprint, and the roof terrace enhances sustainability. Natural finishes and curving elements connected students to nature, while visible engineering encourages interest in STEM fields.”
Sesquicentennial Hall represents more than a structure, it serves as a learning tool.
“The exposed structural and mechanical systems and visible stormwater management features enable students to experience engineering concepts in action,” said Dr. Philip Parker, Dean of the College of EMS. “This approach bridges theory and practice. Students can read about HVAC systems, data, and electrical closets and then step outside the classroom and see these systems in action. We consider the building a teaching tool—it shares a role in educating our students and it embodies who we are.”
Student learning extends outdoors as well. The WI ALSA Merit Award highlights the building’s integration with the landscape: outdoor learning spaces, stormwater management systems, native plantings, and pedestrian connectivity that enrich both environmental stewardship and student experience—underscoring UW-Platteville’s approach to sustainable campus planning.
The success of the project reflects collaboration across the university, with input from people all over campus, including students, whose perspectives on which spaces would best meet their needs helped shape the final design.
As a LEED Gold certified building, it also reflects UW-Platteville’s commitment to sustainability. Designed to perform at the highest standards while minimizing environmental impact, the building demonstrates how advanced educational facilities can integrate sustainability with high-performance design.
“The building is not only a physical landmark on our campus but a symbol of our commitment to creating spaces that foster learning and environmental stewardship,” explained Parker. “These awards are a testament to the forward-thinking vision and hard work of everyone involved in bringing this project to life.”
STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
STUDENTS PUT SOLAR POWER TO THE TEST FOR HANDS-ON LEARNING—AND WAFFLES
By Christine Bellport
Students put their engineering skills to the test in a flavorful way. The scent of freshly made waffles filled the air—not from a food truck, but from a solar-powered cooking station. The demonstration was part of a culminating event for Wind and Solar System Design (ENERGY 4330), a senior-level technical elective.
Rather than just studying theory from textbooks, these students brought their calculations to life. Throughout the semester, they used “clear sky radiation” equations to calculate the sun’s position and estimate the intensity of solar radiation. Then, using handheld tools and solar sensors, they measured actual solar angles and light intensity to confirm their predictions.
“I try to include some experimental and experiential activities to keep the students engaged,” said Dr. Thomas Zolper, Associate Professor, mechanical and industrial engineering. “The solar waffle event is a hands-on activity where students design and build a solar energy system. It helps them understand how solar power converts to electric power, and how much power it can provide to household appliances.”
Zolper was tapped to teach Fundamentals of Energy Sources (ENERGY 2340) in 2019, and by 2023, he had taken the helm of ENERGY 4330. He notes that the smaller SRES class sizes allow for more hands-on experiences and field-based learning.
“With just 12 students compared to the usual 24 in mechanical engineering, we can do things like field trips and solar waffle days without too much logistical trouble,” explained Zolper.
For many students, the SRES program is more than just an academic track. It is a commitment to a sustainable future.
“I didn’t think my values around sustainability could become a career, so coming here and seeing that it can is amazing,” exclaimed Kimberly Zender ’25, sustainability and renewable energy systems.
Zender accepted a position with WPPI Energy in Sun Prairie after graduation and credits the program at UW-Platteville for her early success. “In SRES, I had two different internships, and that kind of
experience gives us a step up when we’re interviewing for jobs," said Zender. "The energy industry is changing every day, and we get to study something that evolves with new technology. Being on the forefront of that is such a cool opportunity.”
The SRES curriculum offers a well-rounded approach to sustainability and energy. Students explore solar, wind, hydroelectric, and biomass technologies, while also learning about energy conservation strategies like green building design, along with the policy and business aspects of the renewable energy industry.
As the waffle irons sizzle under the sun, the SRES program is cooking up more than just breakfast. It is preparing the next generation of energy innovators.
’25, sustainability and renewable energy systems, student and solar waffle chef.
ABOUT SRES AT UW-PLATTEVILLE
UW-Platteville is proud to be one of the only colleges with renewable energy programs in the United States. The program develops comprehensive skills to address solutions to technical, economic, and environmental challenges related to energy, efficiency, and renewable resource management. Courses provide a strong foundational knowledge in traditional and renewable energy systems and their impacts on society. At UW-Platteville, students gain hands-on experience through co-ops, internships, and senior design projects.
Kimberly Zender
STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
UW-PLATTEVILLE STUDENTS EMPOWER GHANA’S NEXT GENERATION
By Christine Bellport
As students often endure challenging classes on campus, they may not immediately see the broader impact of their education and how it could transform communities and alter the course of an entire generation. Perhaps some students will never know. But that’s exactly what is happening with the UW-Platteville Engineers Without Borders Student Chapter after their work in Ghana.
"The late nights studying can be boring, but now I see my classes as more than just routine; I see a deeper purpose and a powerful goal,” said Patrick Dugan ’25, civil engineering. “I had to experience this journey to truly grasp the significance of what I’m learning. It all came to life outside of the classroom.”
As part of the national Engineers Without Borders-USA network, the student chapter focuses on collaborating with communities to develop and deploy engineering solutions that address pressing local issues and meet essential needs. Currently, the students are dedicating their efforts to constructing a two-building junior high school in Adumasa, Ghana. Adumasa is a small village located in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, where many residents face economic challenges and live in conditions of relative poverty. This initiative will not just enhance educational opportunities but will transform the lives of the children who live there.
Dr. Austin Polebitski, Professor and Chair, civil and environmental engineering, traveled to Ghana with the students and emphasized the profound impact of the project.
"They have an elementary school, but students must wait for high school," Polebitski explained. “By bridging the critical gap between elementary and high school education, our project stands to change the trajectory of countless young lives in Adumasa.”
The elementary school already has hundreds of students and space is an issue. Managed by the FST Sisters, a dedicated religious organization, they hope to create a seamless educational pipeline that will facilitate students' progression to high school, contribute to the community's prosperity, and help alleviate poverty in the region.
"We toured parts of Adumasa and were struck by the profound poverty in these rural areas with limited infrastructure," said Polebitski. "For our
team, this experience reinforced the importance of our mission and clarified the purpose of our work."
The students arrived with detailed plans and a clear vision of how things should proceed, but they quickly learned that adaptability is crucial, especially in a foreign country.
“We helped build the walls, lintels, and bond beams for one of the two buildings that will become the middle school,” said student Ryan Varoski, junior, civil engineering. “Sometimes we encountered problems with the construction and had to figure out the best solution on the spot. It wasn’t just about looking at plans; we were moving blocks, bricklaying, and digging trenches for a septic tank system and distribution field.”
“The most challenging part was the labor and trying to keep up with the workers, who could work all day with barely any water, while I needed to drink every 30 minutes,” Varoski shared. “The most rewarding aspect was the sense of accomplishment from what we achieved, especially since we initially thought we wouldn’t get that far.”
As the students prepared to leave, they knew that one of the two buildings they worked on would be used immediately as a middle school, even without a roof.
“While we were there, we made one building usable enough that one of the sisters told us she is leading her first middle school class right now!” Polebitski exclaimed. “Sister Veronica told me, ‘I don’t care if there’s no roof, we will figure it out.’”
This project is more than just a construction effort; it is a beacon of hope and opportunity. By providing a pathway to continued education, the UW-Platteville engineering students are addressing immediate educational needs and investing in the long-term well-being of the community. Their work is creating a ripple effect, empowering young students in Adumasa to imagine brighter futures.
“Traveling to Africa with the Platteville chapter of Engineers Without Borders offers our students a transformative experience that extends beyond campus," said Dr. Christina Curras, Professor, civil and environmental engineering. "This journey not only showcases the potential of their degrees but also inspires them to see the lives they can impact with their expertise and hard work.”
Through these efforts, the UW-Platteville Engineers Without Borders is indeed changing the course of an entire generation in Ghana, demonstrating how education can be a powerful tool for social transformation.
UW-Platteville Engineers Without Borders Student Chapter go.uwplatt.edu/supportewb
STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
CYBERSECURITY CLUB GARNERS GLOBAL RECOGNITION WITH TOP-TIER COMPETITION
By Gaile Schwickrath
Not yet two years old, the Cybersecurity Club at UW-Platteville has made an astonishing debut on the national stage. Formed a year and a half ago by a group of motivated students and faculty, the club has already established itself as a powerhouse in collegiate cybersecurity competitions.
At the 2025 picoCTF challenge—a global cybersecurity hacking competition hosted by Carnegie Mellon University—two UW-Platteville teams placed in the top 3% out of more than 10,000 teams from around the world. This followed their equally impressive results in 2024, where they ranked 17th out of 539 undergraduate institutions, outperforming many long-established programs.
“I’m extremely proud of our team,” said 2024 team captain Riley Basaran ’24, cybersecurity. “Our school and the club have always had the talent and ability to do great things in cybersecurity. I’m excited to see what we’ll accomplish next year.”
The Cybersecurity Club has developed into a vibrant community of students passionate about cybersecurity and hands-on learning. Weekly meetings focus on student-led presentations, skill-building, and preparation for competitions like picoCTF and others.
Club members dedicate significant time outside of class to improve their skills. In the final days of the 2024 picoCTF competition, the team more than doubled their score, catapulting themselves into the top 20 standings.
The club’s culture emphasizes peer mentorship, project-based learning, and career readiness. Faculty advisor Dr. Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman, Assistant Professor, computer science and software engineering, notes that competitions like picoCTF are not just contests, they make the learning process “entertaining, diverse, technically deep, and competitively challenging.”
“These competitions are not only excellent tools for talent development, but also highly effective for talent exposition and showcasing,” Ashrafuzzaman said
Former club president and founding member Parker Stork ’25, computer science and cybersecurity, credits the club for helping him succeed professionally.
“It helped me build confidence speaking in front of industry professionals. I don’t think I would have landed my job without it,” said Stork, who accepted a position at Iowa Solutions in spring.
The club’s momentum reflects the strength of UW-Platteville’s pioneering cybersecurity undergraduate program, the first of its kind in Wisconsin. With majors in cybersecurity, software engineering, and computer science, and a fully online Master of Science in Cybersecurity, students receive both depth and breadth in their technical education.
The recently opened Cybersecurity Lab in Sesquicentennial Hall gives students access to state-of-the-art simulation tools for
penetration testing, malware analysis, and digital forensics. This environment, made possible by support from alumni like Dr. Ron Meissen ’71, civil engineering, has laid a solid foundation for continued excellence.
“Once I became aware of the rapidly growing demand for cybersecurity experts—and recognized the excellent position UW-Platteville holds as the first university in Wisconsin to offer a cybersecurity degree—I was all in,” exclaimed Meissen. “UW-Platteville gives students a tremendous opportunity to thrive in this high-demand field, and they’re proving it with the impressive results of their competition.”
Looking forward, the club plans to expand its involvement in national competitions, partner with professional conferences like CypherCon, and offer even more leadership opportunities for students.
At the 2023 Wisconsin Governor’s Cybersecurity Summit, four UW-Platteville teams placed first, second, fourth, and seventh among 28 teams, including many made up of working cybersecurity professionals. It's a signal that this club is not only competing, it is leading.
“The experience you gain through the Cybersecurity Club shows employers that your interest in cybersecurity goes beyond the classroom,” said Stork. “The hands-on skills and knowledge I gained from my degrees at UW-Platteville also prepared me well and translate directly into the professional world.”
STUDENT SPOTLIGHTS
RECLAIMING THE “M”: A STUDENT-LED REVIVAL OF PLATTEVILLE’S HILLSIDE SYMBOL
By Gaile Schwickrath
The Platte Mound “M” is now more visible and vibrant than it has been in years thanks to a student-led initiative that united engineering students, university leaders, and community members in a remarkable act of service.
Former UW-Platteville Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) president, Cade Klefstad ’24, construction management, spearheaded a year-long restoration project to clear overgrown brush and trees that began to crowd and cover the iconic monogram. Drawing on his Northwoods logging background, Klefstad envisioned a long-term stewardship plan to preserve and enhance the landmark, which was first constructed in 1937 by mining engineering students.
“The big thing was to just open it up again and create more visibility,” Klefstad explained. “One of the big complaints from community members and members of the university was the encroachment of the tree line on both sides.”
The effort unfolded in phases. In fall 2023, Klefstad and a small group tackled the left side of the “M”. A year later, the second phase drew more than 70 volunteers in November 2024 to clear brush and trees on the right side, including 50 SAE students and 20 supporters from the broader Platteville community.
Klefstad personally handled the use of chainsaws and weedwhackers for safety, while others supported the removal and hauling of dense vegetation. Among the enthusiastic participants were Provost Laura Reynolds, Dean Philip Parker, and SAE faculty advisor Lea Ljumanovic, Senior Lecturer, mechanical and industrial engineering. Community partners also pitched in: Ted Ogden of Woodchuk Tree Service provided a woodchipper, while Terry Bartels, a local resident, offered equipment and land for debris disposal.
“This was a totally student-led project,” said Dean Parker. “The younger generation is awesome... I was so impressed.”
“Cade really believes in giving back,” added Ljumanovic. “He’s definitely gone above and beyond.”
While the physical transformation of the mound was immediately striking—Klefstad called it a “night and day difference”—the project is far from over. The SAE team has expanded their vision beyond cleanup into environmental stewardship and community outreach.
To prevent future overgrowth, the Reclamation Club conducted a controlled prairie burn in spring 2024 and are now engaged in prairie restoration work, integrating native plants to maintain the open character of the hillside. Community surveys are informing the next steps for student-driven improvements to the site.
The team also reinstated the traditional whitewashing of the “M”, which had lapsed during the pandemic. The renewed effort underscores the significance of the “M” as not just a symbol, but a living classroom in sustainability, engineering, and civic leadership.
“My passion for the “M” comes from a young age,” said Klefstad. “I have family in Kieler, Wisconsin, and whenever we would drive down to visit them, we would see who could spot the “M” first. It’s kind of crazy seeing the sheer impact you can make on the community.”
BY THE NUMBERS
• 50 SAE students
• 20+ community and campus volunteers
• 1 massive skid steer
• 2 trailers
• 1 woodchipper
• Countless wheelbarrows of cleared brush
• 1 shining white “M” at the end of it all
EMS EXCELLENCE AWARDS
2025 EMS Excellence in Teaching Award
Dr. Katie Volz, Assistant Professor, mathematics, has been awarded the 2025 EMS Excellence in Teaching Award in recognition of her innovative and student-centered approach to education. Known for making complex mathematics accessible and engaging, Dr. Volz has earned high praise from students for her clear explanations, supportive feedback, and ability to inspire independent problem-solving.
Colleagues commend her use of creative teaching strategies, including hands-on tools developed in the Huff Family Innovation Center and lessons that introduce mathematical concepts through activities like juggling. Beyond helping students succeed academically, Dr. Volz is celebrated as a mentor who prepares future educators to carry forward her passion for teaching.
Congratulations to Dr. Volz for her outstanding contributions to student learning and the teaching community.
2025 EMS Excellence in Research and Scholarly Activities Award
Dr. Xiaoguang Ma, Associate Professor, electrical and computer engineering, has been honored with the 2025 EMS Excellence in Research and Scholarly Activities Award for his groundbreaking work at the intersection of networking, artificial intelligence, and critical infrastructure systems.
His research spans real-world applications such as AI-enhanced cybersecurity for microgrids, blockchain solutions for agricultural traceability, and AI vision systems for dairy farm management. In the past year alone, Dr. Ma has published eight peer-reviewed articles, pursued over $450,000 in funding, and secured four externally funded projects. He also holds a U.S. patent application for an AI-assisted network management system.
Beyond his research contributions, Dr. Ma is committed to student engagement, currently mentoring nine undergraduates on projects that integrate cutting-edge technology with practical impact. His initiatives—including the AIcademic System and the PROTECT Framework—are shaping the future of engineering education in the age of AI.
Congratulations to Dr. Ma for his innovation, leadership, and dedication to both scholarship and student success.
2025 EMS Excellence in Teaching Award
Lea Ljumanovic, Senior Lecturer, mechanical and industrial engineering, has been named the recipient of the 2025 College of EMS Excellence in Advising Award. Widely praised for her compassionate and proactive approach, Ljumanovic is known as an advisor who goes above and beyond to support her students’ academic success.
Students describe her as a welcoming and dependable guide—one recalled passing a challenging course thanks to her strategic support, while another highlighted her constant availability and unwavering encouragement. Her commitment to thorough, individualized advising has earned her previous recognition, including the UW-Platteville Advisor Award and the Student Voice Award.
Congratulations to Lea Ljumanovic for her exceptional service and dedication to student achievement.
Dale Dixon Professor of Engineering Award
Dr. Michael Zampaloni, Professor, mechanical and industrial engineering, and program coordinator, Master of Science in engineering, has been honored with the prestigious Dale Dixon Professor of Engineering Award. Since joining the university in 2007, Dr. Zampaloni has championed access to engineering education through initiatives like the Platteville Engineering Partnership (PEP), benefiting nearly 400 graduates.
His impact extends beyond the classroom through co-founding the Center for Device Design and Development (3DC), which has provided nearly 100 students with paid internships and hands-on experience. As a mentor to 91 senior design projects, he has forged strong ties between students and industry, promoting innovation and regional growth.
Dr. Zampaloni has also expanded graduate education pathways, including launching an aerospace manufacturing emphasis in collaboration with UCLA Extension—the only program of its kind in Wisconsin. With this award, he aims to enhance asynchronous learning tools to support student success across the College of EMS.
Congratulations to Dr. Zampaloni for his visionary leadership and dedication to engineering education.
BRIDGING CONTINENTS: DR. DANNY XIAO’S SABBATICAL IN GERMANY SPURS GLOBAL LEARNING AND STUDENT OPPORTUNITY
By Gaile Schwickrath
In spring 2024, Dr. Danny Xiao, Associate Professor, civil and environmental engineering, embarked on a sabbatical that took him to Hochschule Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences in Germany, where he immersed himself in a European model of engineering education. More than just a personal academic journey, Xiao’s experience sparked the creation of a new faculty-led study abroad course, offering UW-Platteville students a chance to experience German culture, engineering, and innovation firsthand.
During his time at Hochschule Darmstadt, Xiao participated in numerous aspects of campus life—sitting in on classes, leading guest lectures, and joining student workshops and field trips. Xiao also collaborated on concrete curing research with Dr. Markus Schmidt, one of the inventors of a capillary pressure sensor system that tests the effectiveness of curing on concrete.
Concrete, the most widely used construction material in the world, needs adequate moisture and temperature to develop strength and durability. Xiao and Schmidt’s research proved the value of the capillary pressure sensor system in visualizing the curing process. Xiao presented the results, “Effectiveness of Curing on Fresh Concrete Using Capillary Pressure Sensors,” at the 104th Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. in January this year.
The sabbatical, deeply rooted in a longstanding academic partnership, offered not only new research insights but also fresh inspiration for enriching undergraduate education at UW-Platteville. Xiao’s destination was guided by both academic curiosity and institutional connection.
“I knew I wanted to experience Europe, having already lived in China and the United States,” Xiao said. “Germany made perfect sense due to our relationship with Hochschule Darmstadt through
the Wisconsin-Hessen Program, which began in 1998 to promote student exchange between the sister states.”
Germany offered daily reminders of both cultural similarities and striking differences. Xiao noted the country’s well-known automotive industry—home to Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz—as well as the unique character of its Autobahn, Germany’s high-speed highway system.
“It’s similar to our interstate system, but with no speed limit,” he observed. “That stood out immediately.”
He also reflected on daily life: longer class periods (90 minutes compared to UW-Platteville’s 50 minutes), grocery shopping at familiar chains like Aldi, and the convenience of an efficient public transportation network.
“In Germany, I relied entirely on trains and bikes. With my Deutschland Card, I could take any public transportation nationwide. No need to worry about driving, directions, or parking.”
Inspired by his sabbatical, Xiao partnered with Professor Madelon Kohler-Busch to create a new summer 2025 study abroad course titled: Castles, Cars, and Craftsmanship: History and Engineering in Germany.
This short-term, faculty-led program invites students—especially firstand second-year undergraduates—to explore German engineering through cultural, historical, and technical lenses.
Highlights of the course include:
• Guided tours of historic castles and modern architecture
• Visits to world-renowned manufacturing plants
• Participation in hands-on engineering workshops at Hochschule Darmstadt
• Insights into the societal impact of engineering across centuries
“Experiencing different cultures broadens our horizons,” Xiao said. “It enriches our lives, helps us cherish our own backgrounds, and builds strong bonds through personal connection.”
Xiao’s sabbatical demonstrates the far-reaching impact of international academic exchange. It strengthened research ties, provided personal and professional growth, and opened new doors for student global engagement.
Through both his concrete research and the launch of Castles, Cars, and Craftsmanship, Xiao continues to build bridges between institutions, countries, and the next generation of globally aware engineers.
SUMMER SCHOLAR SUPPORT PROGRAM ADVANCES RESEARCH AND TEACHING INNOVATION IN EMS
By Gaile Schwickrath
In Summer 2024, the College of EMS marked a successful first year of the Summer Scholar Support (EMS SSS) program—an initiative designed to boost scholarly activity through faculty-led undergraduate research and teaching innovation. With generous support from foundation funding, the program empowered EMS faculty and students to explore diverse projects, from renewable energy and artificial intelligence to hands-on curriculum enhancements and sustainable chemistry.
Faculty received up to $7,500 in funding to support student researchers, purchase materials, and advance projects that aligned with either undergraduate research or the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SOTL).
Hands-on Robotics Improves Milking Efficiency
Dr. Yang Chen, Assistant Professor, mechanical and industrial engineering, and student Jace Pearson, senior, mechanical engineering, developed a creative prototype that mimics handmilking of cows using robotic gloves and 3D-printed artificial udders. Their testing showed that the robotic glove-assisted method increased milking speed by over 37%, potentially offering a humane, efficient alternative to traditional milking machines. Beyond data collection, the project helped Jace build confidence in mechanical engineering and prototype design.
The EMS SSS program entered its second year this year, continuing to reflect the college’s commitment to elevating the scholarly environment and enhancing student-faculty engagement in meaningful research. We look forward to sharing future results of summer 2025 projects with topics that include artificial intelligence curriculum design, catalytic conversion of carbon dioxide, asymmetric 3D printer nozzle design, data security on dairy farms, and helping students “walk the TRAIL (teaching, reflection, assessment, improvement, and learning)” through writing assignments.
Solar Panels Deliver Real Savings
Dr. Fang Yang, Professor, electrical and computer engineering, Josie Schoeller, senior, electrical engineering, and Olivia Schweiger, ’24, mechanical engineering, analyzed energy and cost savings from a real rooftop solar panel system installed in Menasha, WI. Students worked with massive datasets to assess system efficiency and savings over time. Results showed the system has saved 7–28% annually in electricity costs and operates with about 17% energy efficiency, offering students a practical look at solar energy’s real-world performance.
Cybersecurity Meets the Microgrid
In a world increasingly reliant on connected systems, Dr. Yanwei Wu, Associate Professor, computer science and software engineering, and her student team, Joey Mikkelson, senior, cybersecurity, Dominic De La Cerda, senior, cybersecurity, and Ahmad Hasna, senior, cybersecurity, explored how cyberattacks could target energy microgrids using GOOSE messaging protocols. They successfully simulated a Denial-of-Service (DoS) attack and began investigating more complex scenarios. The work sparked collaborations with other departments and was presented at the SPARK Symposium and WSDI Conference.
FACULTY AND STAFF FEATURES
AI Tackles Defect Detection in Electronics
A team led by Dr. Mehdi Roopaei, Associate Professor, electrical and computer engineering, trained a cutting-edge YOLOv8 deep learning model to automatically spot defects in circuit boards—an innovation with direct relevance to quality control in electronics manufacturing. Undergraduate researchers Collin Bergmann, senior, cybersecurity, and Joey Mikkelson, senior, cybersecurity, gained hands-on experience in real-world applications of AI, achieving detection accuracies over 90%. Their work will be incorporated into coursework and shared with prospective students and the university’s AI Club.
New Chemistry Methods, New Scientists
Dr. Ian MacKenzie, Assistant Professor, chemistry, and undergraduate researcher Alex Oberbroeckling, junior, biology, pushed the boundaries of green chemistry, experimenting with common lab solvents to introduce fluorine into drug-like molecules using light as the energy source. While the original approach didn’t succeed, their “useful failures” helped uncover new synthetic routes—and Oberbroeckling ended the summer with authorship on two peer-reviewed publications and a third on the way.
Modeling Sustainable Heating Solutions
Dr. Bryce Cox, Assistant Professor, mechanical and industrial engineering, and students Brandon Kibbel, senior, mechanical engineering; Jacob Ferguson, senior, mechanical engineering; and Bella De La Cruz, senior, mechanical engineering, tackled the complex science behind shape memory alloy (SMA) heat pumps—a possible replacement for gas heating in cold climates. They built computer models of heat transfer and fluid flow using simulation software and Python coding. While their project faced data limitations, it led to plans for future research and grant applications.
Making Calculus Tangible
Dr. Dan Wackwitz, Associate Professor, mathematics, conducted a SOTL project focused on making integrals more accessible to firstyear students. Dr. Wackwitz paired a custom-built teaching tool with a worksheet to guide students through the process of calculating the area under a curve—a foundational concept in Calculus I. Dr. Wackwitz launched this tool in the classroom during fall 2024.
From Carbon Pollution to Useful Products
Dr. Mohammad Rabbani, Associate Professor, chemistry, built a photoreactor to convert CO₂ into useful chemicals. Students Ryan Beckley, senior, mechanical engineering, and Erika Betancourt, senior, chemistry, helped construct the system and prepare a specialized material (called a photocatalyst) to be used in future experiments. This work sets the stage for new lab activities and course content in chemistry, expanding opportunities for student engagement in sustainability-focused research.
INDUSTRY FOCUS
ENGINEERING STUDENTS CRAFT A LIFE-CHANGING TODDLER CHAIR
By Christine Bellport
Emma Gunderson is a lively, happy toddler who, despite blindness and limited hearing, finds comfort in one place: her bouncy chair.
“It’s hard to put into words just how important this chair is for Emma,” said her mother, Rachel Gunderson. “She spends about a third of her day in it—it’s her safe space. She laughed for the first time in this chair. We take it everywhere with us because it’s the one place where she feels secure and comfortable.”
Emma has moderate hearing loss and wears hearing aids and has a condition that causes structural differences in her retinas. Additionally, Emma has mild neurological abnormalities that have puzzled neurologists. With no formal diagnosis, her mother calls Emma her “little medical mystery.” However, her physical hurdles are offset when she’s in her bouncy chair.
“Emma wants to move her body independently; she doesn't want to be held or restricted for long periods of time. She absolutely loves it,” said Gunderson. “The thought of her outgrowing the chair is heartbreaking, because this chair is more than just a piece of equipment. It’s been a lifesaver for Emma.”
As Emma continues to grow, her parents face a dilemma: no one makes a larger version of her beloved chair. Three mechanical engineering students took up the problem in their senior design capstone project.
"I got into engineering because I want to create devices that promote more equality," said Taylor Nisius ’24, mechanical engineering. "I have a cousin with scoliosis who’s also on the autism spectrum. She’s always worn braces, which really restricted her. I think about all the things she couldn’t do with us that we take for granted, like swimming. She couldn’t even get her brace wet."
Nisius, along with JJ Hilliard ’24, mechanical engineering and Bryanne Pinkowski ’24, mechanical engineering, designed and built a new chair in their Senior Design Project.
"My mother always had mobility issues, so I watched her struggle with her walker, which wasn’t ideal,” recalled Hilliard. “That’s when I started getting into designing mechanical solutions, driven by the idea of creating more equality for people with disabilities.”
The trio created their team’s name and logo, Gentle Jumps, and began working on a chair that Emma could grow into, ensuring it would provide the same sense of safety and independence for the next three to four years. Designing the chair came with many
challenges that the students had to work through: creating a manufacturing plan, budget, fabrication, and materials.
“One challenge we faced along the way was conducting a force analysis, especially since Emma tends to rock pretty hard in her chair,” recounted Nisius. “It needs to be adjustable as she grows. Her seating position will change, and while we can’t predict her growth exactly, we’re making assumptions to ensure it serves her safely for the next three to four years."
Gunderson and her husband were overwhelmed by the community support. “This is the greatest Christmas present we could ever receive, and we are deeply moved. To hear how much effort they’ve put into this and to see the other students in the class giving feedback to support them—it was just so inspiring. It’s more than just a chair; it’s a reflection of the incredible community that’s rallied around Emma."
For Nisius, Hilliard, and Pinkowski, this project marked the final milestone in their journey as undergraduates at UW-Platteville.
"What an incredible way to wrap up my education in Platteville," said Pinkowski. "It was especially exciting to share the working prototype with everyone. I was a little nervous knowing Emma and her parents were there, but they made me feel so comfortable."
With Emma’s future in mind, the team persevered through the long process of designing a chair that would not only grow with her but also provide freedom she needs to thrive.
FUTURE OF ENGINEERING
AI IN EDUCATION: PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE MODERN TECHNICAL LANDSCAPE
By Michael Lambert
When science fiction authors imagine the future through popular television, books, and movies, we are often presented with flying cars, high-speed space travel, and quantum alternate universes. Back to the Future, Everything Everywhere All at Once, and the Terminator franchise immediately come to mind, but the list of titles is long.
Using fictional universes as a model for reality can be misleading—we are still waiting for flying cars, hoverboards, and the humanoid robot takeover—but the integration of artificial intelligence into the engineering curriculum has transitioned from speculative future to current practice. At UW-Platteville, faculty are incorporating cutting-edge AI technologies into their coursework to better equip students for the rapidly evolving demands of the engineering profession.
Dr. Harold Evensen, Professor, engineering physics, has been at the forefront of this shift. For the past two years, he has incorporated AI-powered large language models (LLMs) into his sensor labs. In these labs, students use LLMs to support tasks such as writing code to post sensor data to a remote server.
“I had two learning outcomes in mind,” said Evensen. “First, to give students hands-on experience using an LLM to support a complex engineering task. Second, to help them understand the limitations of these tools and how to work around them.”
These implementations aren’t just about novelty—they represent a deeper pedagogical shift.
“Another goal of mine was to observe how students used AI so I could shape the assignment for future semesters,” he explained. The use of LLMs allows students to focus on high-level problemsolving rather than spending excessive time on lower-level coding issues, although syntactical troubleshooting still plays a role.
Evensen also advises students in independent study projects where AI tools support advanced software and hardware development. In these cases, AI enables students to engage more meaningfully with system design and project goals, fostering an engineering mindset centered on iteration and innovation. “Using AI in this context frees them to think more broadly about what they’re working toward, instead of getting stuck debugging syntax,” he said.
Artificial intelligence also presents new challenges in assessment of students’ work. “For me, the days of purely online, remote assessments like quizzes and exams are over,” Evensen stated. “Assessment tasks either need to become significantly more complex or they’ll need to be done in-person to maintain academic integrity.”
Dr. Xiaoguang Ma, Associate Professor, electrical and computer engineering, is preparing students for the demands of the engineering profession with an independent study course focused on AI vision.
“This project focuses on designing, testing, and installing a customized surveillance system for McComish Family Farms,” Ma stated. “The goal is to create a user-friendly system tailored to the farm’s operational needs and technical capacity.”
Ma is also developing a functional prototype of an AI-driven course material generation and update system to help faculty design and implement new course materials.
“For instance, an instructor could request, ‘Generate a lecture introducing GPUs and NPUs for the computer architecture
FUTURE OF ENGINEERING
course.’ The system will then autonomously generate teaching slides, curated reading materials, student activities, exercises, and assessments.” Ma went on to explain that “faculty members may then further refine these materials by making manual edits or by engaging in AI-driven discussions.”
The Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) is another example of a program that supports faculty in making the transition towards using these new technologies in classrooms across the UW-Platteville campuses. Instructional Designers Mela Lewandowski and Tyler Tollefson work with instructors to integrate AI in ways that enhance learning outcomes without compromising rigor.
“I help instructors explore how AI can be used to generate course content ideas, create more engaging assessments, and deliver tailored feedback to students,” Lewandowski noted. She also leads professional development efforts including an asynchronous book club exploring Teaching with AI: A Practical Guide to a New Era of Human Learning.
Tollefson is focused on building scalable support systems using AI, such as on-demand virtual tutors that help engineering students review materials at any time. These “tutors on demand” can reinforce concepts and offer practice opportunities, supporting continuous learning beyond the classroom.
In engineering, where data literacy, systems thinking, and design-based problem-solving are essential, AI offers powerful new tools. Students can use LLMs to process large datasets,
simulate engineering systems, refine code, and explore complex models. Yet the increasing use of AI also raises concerns around academic integrity, intellectual property, and environmental sustainability. As Tollefson puts it, “While AI has the power to change the educational landscape, it also introduces complex ethical questions.”
One solution lies in competency-based learning models that focus on demonstrated skill and contextual learning. “These approaches help students link coursework to real-world problems,” said Lewandowski. “They prepare students for continuous learning in a rapidly advancing field.”
The future of engineering education isn’t about flashy gadgets or science fiction—it’s about developing technical fluency, critical thinking, and ethical awareness in a world where AI is an indispensable engineering tool. The classroom of tomorrow is already here, and it’s powered by human ingenuity augmented by intelligent systems.
AI IN PRACTICE: PREPARING STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE WORKPLACE
By Michael Lambert
In engineering, the gap between theory and practice is narrowing. While the world of ideas remains foundational, real-world problemsolving increasingly demands a working familiarity with emerging tools such as Generative AI.
Dr. Philip Parker, Dean and Professor, College of EMS, recognizes this shift. Reflecting on past technological transitions, he recalls the resistance to digital photography: “It won’t replace film,” many claimed. Today, he sees similar skepticism around AI. “We tend to focus on the errors that AI is still making and breathe a sigh of relief, but the speed at which these tools are developing and improving is truly remarkable.”
This raises an important question: What will engineers contribute in an era where AI automates routine tasks? Parker emphasizes soft skills, communication, and creative problem-solving—competencies traditionally developed outside engineering classrooms.
Dr. Amanda Tucker, Professor, English and Co-Director of the Helios Program for the Integrated Liberal Arts, is also aware of the need to embrace these new tools to help prepare students for their lives outside of the classroom. During an event titled, “AI and Human Creativity,” Helios Program students were tasked with using generative AI tools to create a superhero character. Working in small groups in Ullsvik Hall, more than 600 students used AI tools to create novel superhero characters with unique superpowers, high-resolution images, and full backstories. Collaboration among student groups allowed them to explore new tools in a low-stakes, team-focused setting.
Dr. Mehdi Roopaei, Professor, electrical and computer engineering, also focuses on helping students transition successfully into the
future workplace. He emphasizes that the workplace of tomorrow will require familiarity with generative AI as a key skill, and for Roopaei, this starts with developing what he calls an “AI mindset.”
“An AI mindset means viewing AI not just as a tool for generating content, but as a thinking partner—something that can collaborate with students to spark innovation, offer insights, and help them explore ideas more deeply.” An AI mindset, in other words, allows students to view AI not as a shortcut, but as a catalyst for deeper learning.
Of course, with such capabilities come ethical concerns. Questions around authorship, originality, plagiarism, bias, and privacy are very real.
“These aren’t reasons to avoid AI—they are reasons to educate about it,” he explains. To maintain academic integrity, we must proactively embed AI ethics into our curricula.
“In short, maintaining academic integrity in the AI era means equipping students not just with knowledge, but with judgement,” he explains. “It’s about building an educational culture that embraces new tools while holding firmly to the values of honesty, accountability, and critical thinking.” In this way, Roopaei sees AI as a potential partner in education—not a threat to it.
As the workplace evolves, so must engineering curricula. Projectbased learning, simulations, and problem-solving rooted in realworld challenges will form the backbone of this shift. While it may be difficult to imagine what the future holds, helping students successfully navigate the world of tomorrow begins with adaptation, empathy, and a continuous reexamination of what makes us human.
FUTURE OF ENGINEERING
MAKING THE FUTURE
By Michael Lambert
Mark Twain famously quipped, “To a man with a hammer everything looks like a nail.” People often have a limited imagination when it comes to tools they are most familiar with—and they tend to see problems of all sizes through a limited set of solutions. Learning how to find new ways of seeing solutions to problems is a form of dialogue, according to Andrew Woodard, Director, Huff Family Innovation Center, and contributing to this dialogue is one way that he sees function in the center’s makerspace known simply as “The Huff.”
“Makerspaces welcome all, regardless of skill level in any particular field,” Woodard says. “Sharing with others what you’re working on, or the problems you are trying to solve allows for collective solutions.” Promoting this sort of hands-on collaboration makes for an environment that fosters creativity when it comes to new ways of seeing solutions to common problems. According to Woodard, “the key to our energy is the community as a whole.”
Another key member of that makerspace community is Mason Kobliska, Prototyping Coordinator, who is currently working on a variety of projects that include a new device for the hearing-aid industry, advancements in post-surgical recovery technology, the development of a test apparatus aimed at reducing the spread of disease, novel approaches in espresso technology, and a new solution to help strengthen the power grid—just to name a few.
“We want everyone to know that being a maker isn’t tied to a degree or title. It’s a mindset,” Kobliska explains. This mindset represents a way of thinking about materials, problem-solving, and creativity in new and collaborative ways—even across disciplines.
“At the Huff, we regularly see hundreds of students working on everything from class projects, senior design, personal projects, and more. Of these projects, we frequently see different approaches to problems.” This is where the “hammer and nail” mindset comes in.
“While it can be entertaining to watch someone machine a $0.10 washer or 3D print an unnecessarily large plastic sheet, it’s also a missed opportunity.” He sees an important aspect of the dialogue being fostered between students and the makerspace faculty and staff as a means of learning to explore more solutions than one might imagine by themselves. “By interacting and collaborating, students unlock far more effective and efficient methods for prototyping and problem solving.”
When asked about the future of making, Kobliska highlighted the newfound accessibility of technologies like 3D printing. “The rise in popularity of makerspaces has granted everyday people access to tools that could prompt them to solve new problems.” In this way, accessibility means more potential solutions to everyday problems and new ways of seeing and using these novel tools.
“20 years ago, 3D printers used to cost thousands of dollars. Nowadays, you can buy one for the price of an expensive dinner.” For Kobliska, the widespread accessibility of these tools means more collaboration between industries, such as laser and vinyl cutting, vacuum forming, wire EDMs, and machining. “Becoming
a manufacturer of your own product is that much more available to the public,” he says.
Woodard added, “The addition of things like 3D printing, AI, and advanced robotics are helping people in makerspaces radically shift manufacturing from a one-size-fits-all manufacturing method to one of endless modification, personalization, and short-run creation.”
In many ways, the makerspace of the future is already here—and it looks a lot like the Huff Family Innovation Center. By empowering individuals from all walks of life to experiment, collaborate, and rethink traditional approaches to problem-solving, the Huff isn’t just a space filled with tools; it’s a community grounded in curiosity and possibility. As Woodard and Kobliska show, the future of making is less about the tools themselves, and more about helping to drive dialogue among makers of all backgrounds and skillsets—offering an innovative counterpoint to the old hammer and nail.
FUTURE OF ENGINEERING
DR. GOKUL GOPALAKRISHNAN: SMALL WORLD, BIG IDEAS
By Michael Lambert
In his 1962 book Profiles of the Future, science fiction author Arthur C. Clarke introduced “Clarke’s Third Law” which states that “any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”
Dr. Gokul “Gopal” Gopalakrishnan, Professor, engineering physics, is working in a field that might, to many of us, seem like magic.
Gopal is a researcher in micro and nano-scale materials engineering, which explores the mechanical, thermal, and electronic behavior of materials at microscopic levels. Nano-scale materials research has given us the insights needed for the development of technology like microchips and thin film devices, which are used in a wide range of devices like smartphones, computers, and solar cells.
Gopal began his research at the Ohio State University and then at Harvard prior to his current role at UW-Platteville. “My doctoral research was in experimental solid-state physics, probing the interactions between electrons and collective atomic vibrations—or phonons—in quantum-confined systems at low temperatures. These are one of the types of electronic systems used in the development of quantum computers today.”
His current research at UW-Platteville is based on the fabrication of semiconductor nanostructures for multiple purposes, ranging from fundamental investigations of materials properties in the nanoscale to applications such as MEMS and microfluidic devices.”
“MEMS is an acronym for ‘Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems’,” explains Gopal, “which are essentially microscopic devices that incorporate both electronic and mechanical components.” These systems are typically in the range of 1-100 micrometers in size, which is smaller than the thickness of a human hair—the micro scale. Think: Ms. Frizzle’s magic school bus cruising through space after being miniaturized, or Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, or Ant-man and the Wasp’s Quantumania.
For many of us, particle interactions at this scale are often highly non-intuitive and difficult to imagine. Wrestling with smallness has large-scale implications, however.
“One of the ways that we see our current research being put into practice is with the concept of filtration. While filters are traditionally thought of as a way to separate larger sized objects from smaller ones, we are redefining the term to include separation based on shape, not just size. We are working on using these filters to help dairy farmers in Wisconsin quickly separate different types of pathogens and identify diseases.”
Gopal’s influence extends far beyond his research. He also serves as a liaison for WiSys, a nonprofit organization that helps commercialize academic research and connect it with industry. He mentors
student “Innovation Fellows” who gain hands-on experience transforming ideas into prototypes and products. The program culminates in a pitch competition—think Shark Tank for young inventors—where students present their creations to industry and academic leaders.
Gopal said, “It’s one way that students can bring their ideas from the classroom to the real world and get the tools and support they need to make that happen.”
He continued, “It promotes an entrepreneurial mindset with students on campus and helps create a more structured delivery of high impact practices that have resulted in invention disclosures and start-up businesses, beyond just making better engineers and scientists.”
Outside the lab, Gopal is just as adventurous. He’s an avid rock climber and serves as the faculty advisor to the UW-Platteville Outdoor Adventure Club. Through his involvement in this capacity, he continues to expand his circle of influence and extend the educational setting far beyond the confines of the typical classroom or laboratory space.
“Whether it’s scaling a cliff or exploring the quantum world, both require curiosity, precision, and a willingness to take risks,” he says.
While the world of micro and nano scales that inform Gopal’s research may seem like magic to the rest of us, the far-reaching implications of his teaching and research are very real. Through collaborations across disciplines and institutions, Gopal continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in materials science, helping shape the technologies that will define the future. Working alongside some of the best and brightest students at our institution will allow for more new ideas to come to life—further bridging the gap between concept and reality.
Luke Diljak, senior, mechanical engineering, is testing a new style of 3D printer nozzle for fabricating composite parts with improved materials properties and performance with Dr. Gokul Gopalkrishnan, Professor, engineering physics.
LETTER FROM EMS ALUMNI CHAPTER PRESIDENT
Greetings,
My name is Scott Whitsett and I have been an active member of the EMS Alumni Chapter Board for the last seven years. As I continue progressing in my career, I find myself trying to donate more of my time to associations like this. I think we all can say as Pioneers, the school gave more to us than we gave to it. Now is the time to give back so that future generations can continue the Pioneer tradition.
The EMS Alumni Chapter Board is always looking for additional members to join us on the board. Your participation ensures that you stay connected with the university while contributing to the ongoing development of EMS programs for years to come. As Pioneers we always want to be proactive and not reactive. This ensures that the EMS programs are developing students that will be innovators for generations to come.
The board members would like to thank you for your generous support of the UW-Platteville College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science Alumni Chapter. Your support is unmatched and continues to help shape the next generation of EMS professionals and continue the Pioneer legacy of excellence. Your support will help continue the tradition of EMS programs and continue making it the premier program for EMS professionals.
On behalf of UW-Platteville and the College of EMS Alumni Chapter, we express our sincere appreciation for your dedication. Your support is instrumental in furthering the success of future Pioneers, preserving the tradition of producing exceptional individuals across all EMS disciplines. With your help, past, present, and future Pioneer EMS graduates are assured of a bright future and are ready to shape the world ahead.
Thank you,
Scott Whitsett, P.E. ’05 President College of EMS Alumni Board
ALUMNI CORNER
DELTA 3 ENGINEERING: BUILT ON A FOUNDATION OF UW-PLATTEVILLE PRIDE
By Christine Bellport
Delta 3 Engineering has been a proud advocate of EMS students for many years, offering the Delta 3 Engineering, Inc. Scholarship. Since 2006, the scholarship has supported the next generation of engineers by awarding annual funding to civil or environmental engineering majors. This partnership stems from deep roots: the firm was founded by three UW-Platteville alumni—Scott Chyko, ’96, civil engineering, Bart Nies, ’96, civil engineering, and Dan Dreessens, ’97, civil engineering—who turned their shared experience into a thriving engineering business.
Formed in November 2003, Delta 3 Engineering began as a three-person team working out of an unfinished suite in the Platteville Business Incubator. With a mission to provide practical and cost-effective solutions across a range of services—including civil and municipal engineering, structural design, and planning—the company quickly grew. By 2006, they had moved to a larger suite and, by 2011, to their current headquarters in the former Platteville Convention Center. A second office in Dubuque, Iowa, opened in 2019 to meet the needs of a growing client base.
Today, Delta 3 is known for its hands-on approach. Co-founders Dreessens and Nies, who remain principals, continue to directly manage projects, ensuring that the values they built the company on remain at the forefront of every client relationship.
Whether designing a simple site plan or a complex wastewater treatment facility, Delta 3 Engineering remains committed to a “common-sense approach,” clear communication, and true teamwork, all principles that have guided the company for more than two decades.
Delta 3 Engineering Inc. Scholarship uwplatt.academicworks.com/ opportunities/6854
Delta 3 Engineering delta3eng.biz
UW-PLATTEVILLE ENGINEERING, MATHEMATICS AND SCIENCE DONORS
The UW-Platteville College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science gratefully acknowledges the contributions of the following alumni, friends, and corporate sponsors.
Kristine Ackerman 1992
Richard Adams 1964
Tamara Adams 1986
Christine Adams-Matt 1980
Kurt Adler 1996
Michael Aide 1973
Phyllis Akins 1976
Kristine Andersen 2005
Gerald Anderson 1966
Charles Anderson 1995
Norman Asp 2023
Michael Aumann 1992
Jean Bailie 1958
Richard Baker 1979
Robert Barbuch 1969
April Barr 2020
Jeffrey Barta 1990
Kathleen Bastian 1974
Richard Baumann 1972
Andrew Bausch 1990
Donald Beaty 1959
Janet Behrens 1973
Geoffrey Bell 1972
Bruce Belscamper 1960
Joseph Benbenek 1985
Janice Bennett 1980
Patrick Bergeman 1973
Leigh Berndsen
Bruce Berndt
Floyd Bethke 1970
Joseph Biddick 1971
Bradley Billmann 1989
DONOR LIST
Justin Bilskemper 2006
David Bird 1963
Mark Bliss 1986
Theodore Blum 1980
Robert Bocher 1958
Christopher Bohne 1981
John Boldt 1976
Robert Boldt 1970
Kevin Bonde 1978
Ryan Bonell 2006
Mark Boorse 1997
Scott Borroughs 1997
John Boynton 1970
Ronald Bradt 1969
Bob Brancel 1984
Nancy Breen 1974
William Bremer 1970
Charles Broers 1979
Jennifer Brooks 2000
William Browns 1969
Clyde Bryant 1962
Aaron Bubb 1999
Howard Buchanan 1961
Shawn Budden 2014
Wayne Budrus 1976
Larry Buetzer 1976
Michael Bulgrin 2017
Joseph Bunker 1996
Lance Burger 1984
David Burroughs 1981
John Busby 1976
Kristen Cadman 2001
Jonathan Carson 1998
Randall Christen 1977
Randall Clark 2001
Joseph Clifton 1976
Mary Cole
Merryn Cole 2003
Brenda Collins 1991
Patrick Conard 1980
Evan Constant 2015
Patricia Coppernoll
Bryce Corrigan 2015
Nicholas Costello 2018
Michael Court 1989
Joseph Creelman 2021
Robert Crisp 1986
Peter Crocco 2013
Steven Crouch 1976
Emily Crowe 2013
Mary Daniel
Harold Daus 1974
Peter Davis 1980
Anthony Davis 1996
Mason Davis 1964
Ronald Davis 1962
Tracy de Leon 1985
Nick Deering
Wendy Denk 1972
Terry Desjarlais 1991
Emily Dhingra 2001
Judi Diehl 1985
Frances Dieter 1958
Stephen Dikkers 1984
William Dixon 1971
Dale Dixon 1969
Roger Dodds 1969
Brian Dorn 1979
Heather Dotzauer 2005
Daniel Dreessens 1997
Marilynn Dressler 1986
Christopher Duescher 2009
Dennis Dufenhorst 1962
Eric Dundee 2004
Carol Dunlap 1968
Donald Erickson 1980
Liisa Erita 2013
Hannah Exner 2020
Greg Faherty 1988
Donald Fahrney 1963
Edward Falk 1969
Alan Farrell 2000
Ryan Feldmann 2009
Lyle Finn 1964
Corinne Fish 1981
Mike Fisher 1983
William Flemming 1967
Robert and Carol Flint
Katherine Flug 1962
Ralph Forseth 1967
Jim Fowler 1979
Marcus Frana 2007
Lucinda Fritchen
George Furey 1979
Jeffrey Gafner 2013
Karlene Galusha 2011
DONOR LIST
Landon Gauthier 2017
Lee Gibbs 2002
Gary Giese 1979
Terry Giles 1968
Donesh Gillin 2003
Holly Glessner
Thomas Golden 1972
Randy Govier 1976
Thomas Graber 1968
Gary Grimm 1964
Daniel Grochowski 1989
Christine Gross
Jodean Grunow 1963
Ralph Guerin 1970
Robert Gundlach 1972
Randy Hall 1972
Susan Halvensleben 1969
Debbie Handler
Matt Hansen 1991
Larry Hanson 1971
Angela Hanz 1996
James Harker 1967
Steven Harper 1985
Ronald Harrell 1972
Christian Heer 1982
Matthew Heer 2003
Andrew Hess 1987
JuliaJoy Hilliard 2024
Larry Hinders 1965
Fred Hintz 1989
Mark Hoague 1980
Steven Hoffman 1971
Kevin Holmes 1981
Albert Hooker 1980
Justin Horack 2011
Terry Horst 1972
Matthew Hoslet 2017
Dalton Howell 2018
Alice Hubert 1992
William Huff 1959
David Hunt 1978
Colleen Ingwell 1995
Danielle Izdepski 1996
Steven Jacobs 1998
Donald Jakubisin 1984
Harlow James 1963
Dennis Janda 1980
Joann Jansen 1989
Timothy Jenkins 1980
David Jensen 1969
Steven Jirschele 1978
Dick Johnsen 1968
Dana Johnson 1985
Timothy Johnson 1989
Todd Johnson 1981
Seth Johnson 2010
Mary Jones 1992
Carley Jones 2016
Thomas Jordan 1989
David Jore 1988
Douglas Jorgensen 1967
Michael Jurewicz 1996
Catherine Kaake 1978
Charles Karow 1989
Gary Kassen 1983
Henry Keen 1985
Mark Keesey 1981
Susan Kellicut 1973
Robert Kelly 1975
Anthony Kemnitz 1986
Lawrence Kent 1973
Barbara Kies 1968
Jeffrey Kilcher 1982
John Kincaid 1980
Edmund King 1977
Terry Kittson 1979
Kay Klein 1967
Robert Kluge 1969
Gilbert Knappmiller 1964
Todd Knox 2003
Harlan Knudson 1969
Jerold Kobiske 1974
John Kortas 1972
Dale Kowalski 1972
Daniel Koziczkowski 1996
Travis Kraemer 2017
Gregory Krahn 1969
Ella Kramer 2019
James Kramer 1977
Donald Kratcha 1960
David Krohn 1961
Jeffrey Kronser 1977
Perry Kuznar 1982
Linda La Brake 1986
James Laird 1961
Jacolyn Lang 1975
DONOR LIST
Bradley Lange 1995
Larry Larson 1962
Eugene Laschinger 1975
Jason Laschinger 2012
Brenda Laufenberg 1997
Carol Leannah 1980
Jennifer Leech 2009
Richard LeMahieu 1976
Betty Leonhard 2000
Melvin Leskinen 1970
Robert Leuck 1983
Paul Levendoski 1971
Jaz Lind
Jon Lindert 1993
Kent Locy 1993
Peter Lofy 1990
Kyle Lorenz 1987
Jack Losch 1972
Morgan Lowery 2007
Joel Lund 1986
Sean Lynch 1999
Douglas MacKenzie 1968
Sarah Magdanz
Mark Makemson 1983
Dennis Maney 1988
Charles Maney 1962
Tricia Mason 2009
Todd Matheson 1992
Jonathan Maxwell 1990
Timothy Maziasz 1980
Maureen McCarthy 1979
Bruce McClain 1963
Patrick McCormick 1986
Julia McDonald 1981
Austin Mcdonald 2018
William McElroy 2011
Shawn McGuire 2010
Jane McLamarrah 1971
Kevin McMullen 1986
Daniel McNaughton 1969
Ronald Meissen 1971
Adam Mentink 2009
Steven Mertins 1973
Stephen Meyer 1991
Mark Meyers 1981
Kenneth Mika 2015
Robert Miller
Karen Miller
Ara Molitor 1989
Eric Monson 2001
Steven Montague 1980
David Moody 1974
Dale Moody 1966
Russell Moody 1964
Michael Morgan 1971
Sidney Mueller 1983
David Murphy 1970
Amelia Murwin
James Myers 1964
James Myers 2010
Jon Neidhold 1958
Bradley Nelson 1977
Donald Nelson 1970
Larry Nelson 1966
Philip Nickson 1967
Ronald Niendorf 1968
Jack Noble 1967
Mark Novak 1979
Steven Oakeson 1986
Caitlin O'Connell 2013
Eric Odegaard 2005
Dennis Olson 1970
Brad Opsahl 1990
Ann ORourke
Dean Oswald 1990
Travis Ottelien 2014
Patricia Owen 1963
Cary Palmer 1968
Daniel Parizek 1980
Darrell Parker 1970
Aaron Patterson 1996
Donald Pauser 1961
Kathleen Pechan 1980
Richard Pelkola 1969
L. Perrin 1959
Kenneth Pesch 1971
Mark Peters 1992
Timothy Peterson 1974
Terrence Peterson 1976
Larry Pfeil 1971
Allen Pierce 1991
Nancy Quirk 1980
James Rabe 1996
Robin Radocay 1974
Thomas Radue 1982
Roger Rahlf 1972
DONOR LIST
Sally Ralph 1980
Erin Ralph 2003
William Ranis
Brian Rauch 1986
Bradley Reents 2006
Ed Reichmann 1960
Robert Reisinger 1978
Kay Reuter-Krohn 1978
David Rice 1981
Deborah Rice 2004
Matthew Richards 1991
Theodore Richards 1961
Stan Richardson 1970
Reese Riddiough 1962
Bernard Riechers 1981
Rod Rinzel 1998
William Ripp 1973
Michael Ripp 1984
Stephen Roake 1970
Patti Roark
Phillip Roberts 1985
Jill Roethe 1973
Richard Roggenbauer 1968
Charles Rollman 1967
Edward Roth 1968
Lawrence Rott 1971
Joseph Rottmann 1971
David Running 1975
Andy Rusk 1972
Michael Ryan 1971
Tammy Salmon-Stephens 1994
Nathaniel Sandvig 2024
Jack Scheidegger 1960
Patrick Schlosser 1973
Richard Schluge 1978
Steve Schmidtknecht 1980
Don Schneider 1967
Roy Schneider 1977
Lindsay Schoettlin
John Schrank 1975
Michael Schroeder 1971
John Schroeder 1977
George Schwarzmann 1987
Gaile Schwickrath 2012
Duncan Seffern 2000
Jeffrey Seitz 1978
William Shinker 1969
Robert Shower 1970
Mark Shubak 1993
Mary Sieckman 1983
Randal Simons 1984
Meldia Sina 2021
Chad Skoug 1993
Patrick Smet 1994
John Somerville 1963
Margaret Sommer 1969
Joseph Spellman 1980
Patty Spires-Merkel
Amy Staffen
Heidi Stalsberg
Donald Stark 1971
Stacia Stephenson 2010
Thomas Stetzer 2005
Steve Stroshane 1992
Carrie Struss 2014
Brent Studnicka 1989
Kenneth Swan 1968
Richard Swiontek 1970
Ron Tessmann 1980
James Theusch 1972
Craig Timmerman 1997
Craig Tobias 1992
Russell Tonelli 1968
Nathan Torgerson 1992
Kristy Treichel 2003
Linda Trumm 1977
Brian Udovich 1997
Corey Valaskey 2002
Celia Vander Loop 1984
Robert Vander Zanden 1968
Jansen VanLin 2018
Susan Vater Olsen 1995
John Verzal 1974
Kimberly Voigts 1981
John Volker 1970
Janet Vosberg 1991
Paul Vraney 1985
Jay Waldschmidt 1983
David Walker 1979
Andrew Walters 2005
Caroline Wang 1971
Dennis Washa 1974
Carol Weber 1989
Richard Weber 1979
James Weber 1995
Jeffrey Welch 1976
DONOR LIST
Steven Wells 1965
Kevin Wienkers 1977
Lana Wiese 1971
James Winters 1996
Roger Withington 1962
Sonya Withrow
Eric Wittwer 2008
Matthew Wolfe 2007
Rebecca Yasky 1982
FRIENDS
Carl Abing
Sarah Adams
James Almquist
Heather Anderson
Jeanne Andes
Hanni Bahls
Barb Barnet
Annette Beljan
Sandra Bennett
Eric Bjornsen
Jennifer Black
Michael Black
Amanda Blank
Mary Block
Richard Boorse
Mary Jo Booth
Paul Bruno
Beth Burns
Robert Calcaterra
Arnab Chatterjee
Susan Cherryholmes
Maggie Childers
Phyllis Cohen
Brenda Colin
Judith Colletti
Alexander Coologeorgen
Janice Deppe
Nancy Devine
David Douglas
Jessica Drapcho
Shirley Drapcho
Ann Drapcho
Collette Engerson
Robert Essary
Emma Evetovich
Paul Young 1967
Theodore Zabel 1968
Mark Zapp 1984
Daniel Zielinski 2007
Jan and Steve Zimmerman
Aaron Zimmerman 1989
Todd Zuberbier 1986
Alexander Zwart 2011
Janita Ewing
Sarah Fitzpatrick
Thomas Flatley
Ann Franz
Natalie Fritz
Ann Glessner
Michelle Godez
Molly Gribb
Kevin Haertzen
Barbara Hammond
Katrina Hecimovic
Carol Hird
Teckla Holmes
Lisa Hoskins
Susan Josheff
Stan Kabat
Kathryn Kahler
William Karberg
James Kincaid
Mary Kiser
Dwight Klaassen
Arthur Klingerman
Mac Klingler
Pamela Knackert
Paul Koszarek
Robert Kramer
Patricia Kreitzman
David Kunz
Mackenzie Lake
Lisa Landgraf
Charles Lang
Teckla Larsen
Maria Lauck
Molly Liebelt
Abby Martin
DONOR LIST
Peggy Marxen
Catherine McAvoy
Linda McCarthy
Peter McGahey
Charles Michael
Deanna Moris
Pamela Mueller
Alyson Mullin
Linda Nedelcoff
Carol Nelson
Cory Noble
Mary Paler
Philip Parker
Amanda Patch
Robert Patterson
Phyllis Peterson
Teri Preston
Mary Prielipp
Jodi Prosise
Laverne Quam
Brain Quinn
Janet Riechers
John Riege
William Sanders
Lauren Schellpfeffer
John Seeck
CORPORATE SPONSORS
Alliant Energy Corp
Alliant Energy Foundation
Alliant Energy-Corporate Services
American Chemical Society WI Section
American Engineering Testing
American Institute of steel Construction
American Transmission Company LLC
Andersen Corporation Foundation
Ascendium Education Group
Ayres Associates
Belcan Engineering Group
Belcan Engineering Group LLC
Boeing Company
BWBR
Caterpillar Inc.
CGC Inc.
Charter Aarrowcast Inc.
Clark Dietz Inc.
Joel Shields
Savannah Shropshire
Brooke Slimmer
Dudley Sondeno
Julie Strojny
Charles Sundin
James Swenson
Robert Thomas
Jason Thrun
Janet Topp
Nao Tsumagari
Marilyn Tufte
Kathleen Volz
Denise Vosters
Janice Walters
Martha Watrud
Steven Wauer
Ruth Weaver
Whitney Whitney
Jessica Wick
Mary Ann Wicks
Sheryl Wills
D. Joanne Wilson
Danny Xiao
Philip Young
Timothy Zauche
CORRE Inc.
Cullen
Debeck Foundation
Delta 3 Engineering Inc.
Eagle Flexible Packaging
Edgerton Contractors
Excel Engineering Inc.
Exelon
Findorff
FM Global
Foth & Van Dyke LLC
Foth Infrastructure & Environment
Fulton Corporation
GEI Consultants Inc.
General Mills Foundation Gift Matching Program
Georgia-Pacific
GRAEF
Hewlett-Packard Company
HNTB Corporation
ISG
J.P. Cullen
Jewell Associates Engineers Inc.
John Deere Construction & Forestry Company
John Deere Dubuque Works
John Deere Foundation
JPC Foundation
JSD Professional Services Inc.
JT Engineering Inc.
Kern Family Foundation
Kimberly-Clark Corporation
KL Engineering Inc.
Koch Companies Community Fund
Kraemer North America
Kwik Trip Inc.
L.E. Phillips Family Foundation, Inc
Makepeace Engineering LLC
Mead & Hunt Inc.
Milwaukee Tool Corporation
MSA Professional Services Inc.
Oklahoma Floodplain Managers Association OFMA
Origin Design
Oshkosh Corporation
Phillips-Medisize
Plexus Corporation
Presto Foundation
R H Batterman & Company
RFA Engineering
Rite-Hite Corporation
River Valley High School
Robotics Education & Competition Foundation
Rockwell Automation Charitable Corp Matching Gift Program
