| Craig Ekstrum |
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Biography
I am a first-year student at Michigan Technological University, in the Materials Science and Engineering Department. Throughout high school I pursued advanced placement courses in the sciences and mathematics, and have entered college with an accelerated track of courses, being enrolled in an introductory materials engineering course, and the second tier of calculus as a freshman. I hope to find research opportunities in college, related to the manufacture, design, and application of photovoltaic technology.
Research Interests
- Photovoltaics Conversion Efficiency
- Materials Processing
- Electrification of Developing Countries (for the facilitation of agricultural and educational growth)
- Open source collaboration (Development of agriculturally critical undeveloped countries, Water purification)
- 3D Printing
Current Academic Engagements
Michigan Tech Honors Institute
The Honors Institute is an organization founded in the facilitation of motivated students, supporting both research and community service, and providing an interdisciplinary network. This program provides me connection to many other students, and funded research opportunities.
Michigan Tech Pavlis Institute
The Pavlis Institute program is oriented around international leadership and collaboration, with membership requiring a curriculum of international leadership and cultural awareness classes. The program also includes a five-week international project, the goals of which are determinable by the participating student groups. Through this program, I will be able to further my interest in the electrification of developing countries.
Experience
Molecular Beam Epitaxy Technician
Technician in Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) laboratory at Michigan Technological University (Start: August 27, 2014): My position has included mechanical work in the mounting of MBE cells for impurity relieving heating, and learning of the mechanisms in the operation of the MBE machine.
Marquette Sustainability Committee
Ex Officio member of Marquette City Sustainability Ad Hoc Committee (Period: January 2014 to June 2014): This committee was formed to advise the City of Marquette, and its residents and entities, in the preservation of the environment and decrease in energy consumption. The committee has discussed the issues of farming practices, the adoption of sustainable energy sources, and recycling policy of the City.
- I am currently working on a report for the committee, concerning the feasibility of wind and solar power as future alternatives to the coal power plant supplying the city of Marquette, MI.
Automobile Maintenance
I have hands-on experience in the disassembly, assembly, and repair of automobiles, from work at an automobile dealership. This work includes the replacement of fuel lines, brake pads and rotors, exhaust manifolds, and steering system maintenance.