Michigan Engineer appointed to Mobility Task Force by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer

As the State of Michigan continues its race to become a leader in the future of mobility, it’s seeking support from a Michigan Engineer.

Eric Michielssen, Associate Dean for Research in the College of Engineering, has been appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-Michigan) to a four-year term on the Council on Future Mobility and Electrification. The Council, created by Whitmer in the winter of 2020, is committed to enhancing the state’s mobility ecosystem and maintaining its reputation as North America’s transportation leader.

“I am honored and privileged to support the Council’s mission of creating a dynamic, robust and electrified mobility ecosystem in Michigan, resulting in safer roadways and jobs in communities across the state,” said Michielssen. 

Over the next decade, the Council anticipates electrification, advanced automated vehicle technologies and smarter infrastructure will become commonplace in mobility and fuel demand for high-tech talent, according to a 2021 report. Whitmer has been clear in her aspirations to transform Michigan into a mobility hotbed, unveiling a plan to advance EV adoption and environmental sustainability in the state. 

Michielssen will serve as one of 21 members on the Council, which works across state government, academia and private industry to bolster the investment and development of automated vehicle and infrastructure technologies, electric vehicle adoption and workforce development. 

Michielssen’s background in electromagnetics and optics will be beneficial in assessing radar and lidar technology, which helps autonomous vehicles safely measure their distance from people and objects. Additionally, Michielssen coordinates research activities at Mcity and the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, global-leading research centers on future mobility.

Michielssen will also leverage the ecosystem of Michigan Engineering and the larger University’s pool of expertise. Michielssen is also the Louise Ganiard Johnson Professor of Engineering and a professor of electrical engineering and computer science.