Technology and Innovation

Ana Dyreson

The snowy U.P.: Ideal for testing solar panels

Conventional wisdom says extremely snowy climates aren't ideal for alternative energy sources such as solar panels. No one really knows how much snow impacts solar power systems or what to do about it. Those are questions Ana Dyreson, an assistant professor at Michigan Technological University, is looking to answer.

Latest in Technology and Innovation
Funding paves way for all-electric off-road vehicles in the U.P.

“By aligning our industry-leading initiatives and investment in vehicle technology with the expanding outdoor industry, we can attract industry investment and talent from across the nation while improving accessibility and sustainability within our outdoor recreational assets," said Kathryn Snorrason, Michigan's Interim Chief Mobility Officer.

On tap: annual Michigan Rural Health Conference

The Michigan Center for Rural Health holds its annual conference next week in Mount Pleasant. The two-day conference brings those working in rural health together to discuss a variety of issues in rural health, network and collaborate.

A man uses the care.coach tool, currently being deployed by Grand Rapids-based Care Resources PACE.
New health care technologies improve outcomes for Michiganders of all ages

We took a look at several innovative health technologies, ranging from an app that screens pregnant people for substance use to a device that tracks stress responses to make it easier for older adults to get around.

The campus of Northern Michigan University.
Upper Peninsula Cyber Institute brings back Vajda

"We are excited to have Bill Vajda join our team as the new director of the Upper Peninsula Cybersecurity Institute at NMU. Since the doors opened in 2019, there have been a lot of successes and the momentum is continuing,” said Stephanie Zadroga-Langlois, director of Continuing Education & Workforce Development.

Stormy Kromer partners to make portable sauna tents

Iconic Stormy Kromer partners with Wisconsin tent manufacturer to produce portable sauna tents. “We think it makes a lot of sense for two Midwestern brands who definitely know winter to jointly put their names on this innovative product,” said Stormy Kromer CEO Gina Jacquart Thorsen.

LSSU funds research role with first endowment position

“This is so important to us at the research center because we’re a new initiative and this helps us with financial constraints as we’re growing and allows us to invest in other positions,” said Ashley Meorke, director of the Richard and Theresa Barch Center for Freshwater Research and Education.

The Billerud mill in Wells Township
Billerud funding included in state budget

“This is a monumental victory for the Upper Peninsula,” says state Rep. Greg Markkanen, who represents the 110th District. “Due to this investment, at least 1,240 jobs will be retained at the Escanaba facility.

Communications merger brings peninsulas together

“We have known and worked with WINN for many years. Its fiber optic network fills a void for us in central Michigan and we are very excited to add its employees to the PFN family,” PFN General Manager Scott Randall said.

An up-close look at a bus charging connection.
Electric school buses poised to roll into the U.P.

Three school districts in the Upper Peninsula will receive electric school buses, aimed at reducing emissions and improving the environment.  

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