Elevating CSUB’s Energy Research Standing
California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB), and Aera Energy have solidified their nearly three-decade partnership with a groundbreaking $2.5 million investment. This substantial funding endows the Executive Director for Energy Research position at CSUB’s California Energy Research Center.
Aera Energy’s Transformative Investment
Aera Energy’s investment marks a significant milestone in the evolution of CSUB’s research capabilities, enabling the university to delve into the impacts of the energy transition on technology, the economy, workforce, and the environment. The endowed position will play a pivotal role in steering CSUB’s California Energy Research Center (CERC) during this crucial period in the nation’s energy landscape.
CSUB President’s Vision for the Future
Expressing gratitude, CSUB President Lynnette Zelezny highlighted that Aera Energy’s investment provides unparalleled access for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in groundbreaking energy research. She envisions a transformative impact, creating a robust pipeline of scientists and STEM professionals for the region.
“Aera’s trusted partnership will place Kern County at the epicenter of energy and innovation,” Zelezny stated. “We are so grateful for Aera’s belief in our students and the shared optimism that this community’s pioneering spirit will yield solutions, progress, and prosperity for all.”
Aera Energy and CSUB: Pioneering the Energy Future
Aera Energy CEO Erik Bartsch emphasized the joint commitment to shape the community’s energy future, ensuring workforce preparedness and positioning Kern County as a thought leader in California’s energy transformation. The endowed position will facilitate collaboration between CSUB professors, students, and industry innovators, fostering solutions for a new energy landscape.
This transformative gift expands Aera Energy’s longstanding support for CSUB, totaling $3.4 million since 1997. Beyond the endowed position, Aera’s support has spanned various disciplines, emphasizing the company’s dedication to fostering innovation, research, and intellectual curiosity at CSUB.
The enduring connection between CSUB and Aera Energy is rooted in the shared vision of building a culture of cooperation and innovation to drive the region’s energy economy forward. The California Energy Research Center, benefitting from Aera Energy’s support since its inception in 2014, stands poised to advance cutting-edge research and innovation in sustainable energy solutions.
Source：businesswire.com
