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Eager to exchange the latest information in the study of electric propulsion and to network with expert aerospace researchers and organizations, over 700 attendees gathered in Toulouse, France, for the 38th International Electric Propulsion Conference (IEPC). Five graduate and three undergraduate students from Western �鶹��ýӦ�� University’s aerospace engineering program attended the June 2024 conference with Dr. Kristina Lemmer, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering, to present their emerging research, discover career opportunities and hear from industry professionals, all while experiencing a new and enriching culture.

“I was able to see how some of my recent work compares to others in the field and how I may be able to improve my future research,” says Austen Thomas, Ph.D. candidate. “Additionally, I was able to see possible opportunities for future employment.”

To attend this event, researchers, including students, from around the world submitted abstracts of their research and findings. Those accepted were then able to present their research to experts and potential employers. Logan Alvesteffer, accelerated master’s student, presented all three papers he submitted abstracts for: one as the first author and two as the second author.

“For my primary paper, I had to ensure that the research was not only applicable and useful to an international audience, but that the results were both innovative and successful,” says Alvesteffer. “This was important as each project needed merit behind its purpose and claims, which is why there needed to be more results than theory.”

Researchers with varied experience and specialties attended and presented at the IEPC. For senior Grace Klang, this experience helped introduce her to the electric propulsion field and provided insight to her future graduate research.

“I was easily one of the youngest and most inexperienced people in attendance, so for me specifically, it was a fantastic introduction to some of the ongoing research endeavors in electric propulsion that I might have otherwise been unaware of and a great opportunity to network with new faces,” says Klang.

Lemmer has previously attended the IEPC and regularly encourages students to submit their research. For many, commitment to WMU’s aerospace engineering program is dedicated to Lemmer’s guidance and mentorship.

“Dr. Lemmer does an excellent job connecting students to world-class research and employment opportunities and her extensive knowledge and resources allow WMU to produce innovative electric propulsion advancements,” says Alvesteffer.

In addition to the educational and professional experience gained through attending the IEPC, many also learned more about the city of Toulouse, known as the hub of the European aerospace industry.

“International conferences are always very exciting as we have the opportunity to explore different countries. France was a very exciting place to explore,” says doctoral student Margaret Mooney. “A large part of this conference is the social events so we can network with others in the field. We were able to visit a medieval town, Carcassone, and explore the city with other members in the electric propulsion community.”

With opportunities such as attending the International Electric Propulsion Conference, WMU engineering and applied sciences students graduate with professional experience. This involvement is essential in evolving fields such as aerospace engineering.

“I am looking forward to advancing the space field and seeing how far mankind can go,” says Klang. “It is very exciting to advance the ‘final frontier’ despite the large learning curve it takes to get started.”

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.