Boise State University’s “Veterans in Clean Energy” program is more than just a commitment to sustainable energy—it’s a testament to the transformative power of education and service.
The program, led by Dr. Krishna Pakala and supported by CAES, aims to fully integrate military-connected students into the engineering field, particularly in the energy sector. Despite comprising only 4% of undergraduates, veterans bring a wealth of experience, technical skills, and diversity to the table. The program seeks to leverage these strengths by providing opportunities for training, education, and workforce development.
At the heart of this episode are Paul Byrne, an Associate Professor of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis, and our very own David Estrada, a CAES Associate Director, a Navy veteran, and now a leading researcher in nanomaterials and bionanotechnology.
Estrada’s journey is a testament to his service’s impact. Born to Mexican immigrants and raised in Nampa, Idaho, he joined the Navy as an Electronics Warfare Technician. It was during his service, witnessing poverty in East Timor, that he realized the transformative power of education. He returned home to pursue his undergraduate and graduate degrees, eventually joining Boise State University as a faculty member.
Estrada’s story, along with others like it, is featured on The Story Collider podcast. In his episode, he reflects on his upbringing, military service, and passion for research. His experiences highlight the importance of education and the opportunities it can create.
Listening to these stories not only sheds light on the challenges faced by veterans but also inspires us to think about how we can support and empower them. As Dr. Pakala puts it, “Full participation of military-connected students in engineering is essential to our clean energy workforce.”
We encourage you to listen to David Estrada’s story and others like it on The Story Collider podcast. Their stories are a reminder of the resilience, dedication, and innovation that veterans bring to the table. Let’s support their journey and harness their potential for a cleaner, brighter future.