UDRI tour highlights technical, workforce innovation

The lieutenant governor of Ohio traveled to his alma mater this past summer for a conversation about how Ohio can grow its economy and develop solutions to effectively serve its citizens.

Jon Husted ’89, who took office in January 2019 alongside Gov. Mike DeWine, toured new facilities of the UD Research Institute. There, he talked with researchers about their technologies to repair, build and evaluate replacement parts required for a variety of industries. He donned a virtual reality headset to view a workforce training simulator and discussed University programs aimed at training a highly skilled and technical workforce.

He also discussed his goal of promoting technology commercialization with universities leading the way.

“Our goal is to create a more entrepreneurial culture, where we invite people in,” Husted said of his plan for Ohio economic growth.

Those conversations became reality this fall with the Ohio IP Promise, a partnership among Ohio’s public universities, the University of Dayton and Case Western Reserve University to use intellectual property developed at those universities to attract new business to the state. It will also help grow local ideas into commercial activities and increase entrepreneurial activities on campus. UD has 17 technologies available for licensing in the areas of corrosion protection, energy, electrical engineering, green technology, life sciences, materials, nanotechnology and software.

In addition to Husted, three other Flyers are part of the governor’s cabinet or serve as liaisons. Jack Marchbanks ’74 is director of the Ohio Department of Transportation and formerly served as an assistant director and district director for the department. Joe Zeis ’16 is military liaison to the governor. JP Nauseef ’88 is president and chief investment officer of JobsOhio, which heads up much of the state’s job creation and capital investment.

UD’s growing visibility in Columbus strengthens relationships for our entire region, said Ted Bucaro, UD’s executive director of government and regional relations.

“While our alumni who serve on the governor’s cabinet have a statewide focus, it is encouraging that many of Ohio’s priorities align with the strengths and assets found in the Dayton region, as well as at the University,” Bucaro said. “They enter their new avenues of service with a keen awareness as to how our region and University can help strengthen the great state of Ohio in the areas of education, economic development, and research and development.”