Wes Chang, PhD, assistant professor of mechanical engineering and mechanics, has partnered with two other battery researchers and engineers to develop a course for The Electrochemical Society (ECS) as part of its Battery Workforce Development program. The initiative aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) and battery industries.
Collaborating with Dr. Jeffrey Lowe from General Motors and Dr. Matthieu Dubarry from the University of Hawaii, Chang is creating a comprehensive curriculum on electrochemical techniques and diagnostics for batteries. The course targets graduate students and industry professionals seeking to enhance their skills in battery engineering and diagnostics.
“During my PhD, I saw a clear gap that often exists between the research done in a lab and the practical needs of EV operation,” Chang shared. “To me, this initiative seemed like an excellent way to close those connections and I was very interested in being a part of it.”
The program combines online instruction with an in-person workshop, covering topics such as lithium-ion battery fundamentals, electrochemical analysis techniques, and advanced diagnostic methods. Participants will gain hands-on experience with battery cyclers and potentiostats during the workshop.
With the global push towards electrification, this collaboration showcases Drexel’s commitment to cutting-edge engineering education and industry partnerships. The course, which started its first cohort this summer, will help prepare a new generation of battery engineers for the challenges of scaling up production to meet climate goals.
