The Office of Naval Research Partners with the University of Alaska Fairbanks to Grow the State’s Economic Independence

June 1, 2023

Fairbanks, Alaska (May 23, 2023) - Center ICE at the University of Alaska Fairbanks secured a $2.4-million grant from the Office of Naval Research (ONR), in collaboration with the University of Hawai'i and the University of Rhode Island, to strengthen Alaska's economy and train the workforce of the future. To counteract recent economic challenges, the University of Alaska’s partnership with ONR will start with unearthing local problems and then bringing together teams to develop innovative solutions, which will be used to grow the state’s economy through business opportunities and skills aligned with industry needs and instilled in tomorrow's workforce.

“We’re excited to partner with the Office of Naval Research to collaboratively develop real world solutions to local challenges that will diversify and stimulate our state’s economy,” says Mark Billingsley, Director of Center ICE. 

This project — which will focus on energy and the blue economy — will involve the launch and growth of four programs designed to increase the connection of students and faculty members with industry and military challenges. The grant includes seed funding for solution design, innovation and skills training, tuition support for the students involved in exploring possible solutions, and mentorship by industry and military partners throughout the design process. The project will result in sustained contributions to the military and future-oriented industries — important progress on the path to a stronger and more resilient economy in Alaska. 

“Through these targeted initiatives, we will build up the skills of our students and faculty to pursue more transdisciplinary applied projects built in collaboration with industry,” says Magali Eaton, Associate Director of Center ICE. “Our team is working tirelessly so all programs within the initiative are launched by the beginning of fall semester. Stay tuned for new developments on this project soon."