Solar76 and East Texas A&M University Forge Strategic Collaboration to Advance Solar Energy Innovation and Workforce Development
Solar76, a forward-looking company specializing in advanced solar energy solutions and clean technology, has announced a strategic collaboration with East Texas A&M University (ETAMU) aimed at accelerating innovation in the solar sector while cultivating the next generation of engineering talent. This partnership brings together industry expertise and academic excellence to address real-world challenges in solar manufacturing, system efficiency, and workforce preparedness—key pillars in the global transition toward sustainable energy.
At the heart of this collaboration is a shared commitment to innovation through education. By engaging ETAMU students directly in applied research and manufacturing optimization projects, Solar76 is creating opportunities for hands-on learning that extend far beyond the traditional classroom. Students will work on industry-relevant initiatives designed to improve efficiency, productivity, and scalability within solar inverter and battery production lines—two of the most critical components of modern solar energy systems.
Bridging Academia and Industry
The collaboration represents a practical model of how academic institutions and clean energy companies can work together to drive technological advancement. ETAMU students, primarily from industrial engineering and related disciplines, will lead a series of structured projects that reflect real manufacturing conditions and operational constraints. These projects will allow students to apply engineering principles to tangible challenges faced by Solar76, reinforcing academic theory with experiential learning.
One of the core initiatives includes a detailed time-and-motion study focused on optimizing the assembly process of solar inverters. Inverters play a vital role in solar energy systems by converting direct current (DC) generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) suitable for grid use. Even marginal improvements in inverter assembly efficiency can result in significant gains in production output, cost savings, and overall system reliability. Through systematic observation, data collection, and process analysis, students will identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for process redesign.
In parallel, a comprehensive spring capstone project will center on the redesign of Solar76’s battery production line. Energy storage is increasingly essential to the success of renewable energy systems, enabling solar power to be stored and dispatched when sunlight is unavailable. The capstone project will challenge students to rethink production layouts, enhance automation strategies, and improve throughput and capacity, all while maintaining strict quality and safety standards. The outcome is expected to be a more resilient and scalable battery manufacturing process that supports growing market demand.
Academic Leadership and Industry Support
Oversight of the student-led initiatives will be provided by Paul McCright, senior industrial engineering instructor at ETAMU. With extensive experience in applied engineering education, McCright will ensure that the projects align with academic objectives while addressing authentic industry needs. His role will involve guiding students through problem definition, data analysis, solution development, and final recommendations, fostering a professional approach to engineering problem-solving.
Solar76 will play an equally active role in the partnership by opening its production facilities to students and faculty. Access to live manufacturing environments will give students first-hand exposure to modern solar technology operations, equipment, and workflows. In addition, Solar76 engineers and technical staff will share expertise, provide mentorship, and offer practical insights that help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industrial application.
Investing in the Future of Clean Energy
Donald Jackson, representing Solar76, emphasized the broader significance of the partnership, noting that it reflects the company’s long-term vision for innovation and workforce development in the clean energy sector. “This partnership exemplifies our dedication to driving innovation and workforce development in the solar energy industry,” Jackson said. “Collaborating with East Texas A&M University allows us to invest in the future generation of engineers while advancing sustainable energy solutions that benefit communities and the environment.”
For Solar76, the collaboration is not only about optimizing current production processes but also about nurturing talent that will shape the future of renewable energy. As global demand for clean power continues to rise, the industry requires engineers who are not only technically skilled but also experienced in problem-solving, systems thinking, and continuous improvement. By engaging students early in real-world projects, Solar76 and ETAMU are helping to build a workforce capable of meeting these demands.
Benefits for Students and the Broader Community
From the student perspective, the partnership offers a rare opportunity to work directly with a solar energy company on projects that have immediate industry relevance. Participants will gain practical experience in manufacturing analysis, process optimization, automation planning, and project management—skills that are highly sought after in both the renewable energy sector and the broader engineering job market.
Beyond individual student benefits, the collaboration also contributes to regional economic development and sustainability goals. By strengthening ties between ETAMU and a growing clean energy company like Solar76, the partnership supports local innovation ecosystems and reinforces the role of higher education institutions as drivers of technological progress. Improved manufacturing efficiency and expanded energy storage capabilities can, in turn, help accelerate the deployment of solar energy solutions that reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy resilience.
Ongoing Visibility and Knowledge Sharing
To ensure transparency and broader engagement, the partnership will be highlighted through a series of press releases and video features throughout the academic year. These communications will showcase project milestones, student achievements, and key insights gained from the collaboration. By sharing progress and outcomes publicly, Solar76 and ETAMU aim to inspire similar partnerships and demonstrate the tangible benefits of industry–academia collaboration in the clean energy space.
As the solar industry continues to evolve, partnerships like this one between Solar76 and East Texas A&M University serve as a blueprint for innovation-driven growth. By combining technical expertise, academic rigor, and a shared commitment to sustainability, the collaboration underscores how strategic alliances can deliver meaningful impact—advancing solar technology today while preparing the engineers who will lead the energy transition tomorrow.
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