chris zygarlicke 12

With degrees in geology from the University of North Dakota and the University of Wisconsin–Platteville, Chris has since spent 35 years leading the development of new energy systems for the world. Since 2014 his focus has shifted from project management to developing an engaged and skilled workforce. As Director of Employee Development and Engagement he has spearheaded the customization and deployment of internal employee engagement, development, recognition, and retention strategies to help grow a motivated employee-centric culture at the Energy and Environmental Research Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The EERC is a 60-year world renowned 220-person soft-money self-revenue generating energy technology research division of the University of North Dakota (UND). EERC is solving world issues in energy, including major efforts to capture and utilize carbon dioxide from the air and from energy conversion systems. He continues to serve on the EERC leadership team, assisting in business development, client engagement, and building relationships with UND academic departments, the regional community, and industries worldwide. Previously for nearly two decades he led project research in fossil and renewable energy. As Deputy Associate Director for Research he led a large research group of scientists, engineers and professional support staff working on new processes and advanced systems for coal and biomass conversion to electricity, hydrogen, green diesel, ethanol, higher alcohols, jet fuel, various hydrocarbon fuel additives, and fine chemicals. That group also spearheaded efforts in solar and wind power development and continues today in the development of fuel cell systems, electrochemical processing for fuels and chemicals, and energy transmission.