In a significant step toward fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, Tuskegee University has partnered with Johnson Energy Storage to establish the Dr. Lonnie Johnson Technology Research & Incubation Center on its historic campus. The formal signing of the Cooperation Agreement marks a collaborative effort to inspire the next generation of energy technology leaders, particularly from underrepresented communities.
The new Technology Research and Incubation Center will serve as a dynamic hub for students and faculty. It will provide access to state-of-the-art resources and real-world opportunities to explore cutting-edge technologies. This initiative aligns with JES’s commitment to developing cleaner and more affordable energy solutions.
A Path for Future Innovation
“As a Tuskegee alumnus, it is an honor to create opportunities for the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs,” said Dr. Lonnie Johnson, founder of Johnson Energy Storage. “This Center will embody our vision to push the boundaries of energy technology while uplifting the communities that shaped us.” Johnson is renowned for his groundbreaking inventions, including the Super Soaker water gun, and has utilized his expertise to drive advancements in energy storage technology.
Dr. Mark A. Brown, president and CEO of Tuskegee, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration. “Tuskegee University is known for solving the world’s most complex problems, and one of our most distinguished alums, Dr. Lonnie Johnson, has built a career doing just that. Our work with the Dr. Lonnie Johnson Technology Research & Incubation Center is going to change how our students see the world and set them up for success long after they leave Tuskegee,” said Brown.
This partnership builds on years of collaboration between JES and Tuskegee University. The TRIC will expand this relationship. Students will be equipped with the necessary tools to engage in meaningful research and entrepreneurial ventures, contributing to Alabama’s economic ecosystem.
As the Dr. Lonnie Johnson Technology Research & Incubation Center prepares to launch, it promises to be a critical resource for nurturing talent and driving technological advancements in energy solutions.