By: Uzochukwu Akabueze
Meet Jackson State University’s Battery Workforce Challenge team. Get to know the team members of this inspiring crew’s team leads and its members’ roles and experiences. Hear their excitement in being part of BattChallenge by reading this fun meet-and-greet.
Meet Uzochukwu Akabueze, project manager:
“As a project manager, I am excited to join the competition to advance, learn and expand my interest in power systems relative to electric vehicle technology. My role gives me the opportunity to taste the diversity and strength of the project.”
Meet Johnson Oduwale, engineering manager:
“As the engineering manager, I am actively involved in the design, development, and implementation of EV power packs. I am so excited to join the team because of the practical experience and hands-on training I’ll receive.
Meet Peter Goshomi, battery pack software lead:
“As the battery software lead representing historically black colleges and universities, or HBCUs, and working on technologies that push the frontiers of technology and paving the way for newer and cleaner technology that is more sustainable has becomes my obsession. Moreso, I want to grow more into software engineering because I enjoy solving abstract problems that have a bearing on real-world scenarios and this competition has presented me the opportunity to do so.”
Meet Brandon Fisher, vehicle system integration lead:
“What excites me about the Battery Workforce Challenge is That improving the energy density of batteries allows for longer ranges in electric vehicles. This means that vehicles can travel further on a single charge, making EVs more practical and appealing to a wider range of consumers.
“One of the challenges in widespread EV adoption is the cost of batteries. Any advancements that contribute to reducing the cost of manufacturing high-performance batteries can significantly impact the affordability of electric vehicles.”
Meet Josiah Osula, battery pack hardware lead and vocational liaison:
“What excites me most is the opportunity to learn new skills and get to work with other people who are just as motivated and driven as I am to make a successful team project.”
Meet Bethvour Chike, battery pack hardware:
“As the battery pack hardware lead, I embrace the electrifying challenge of powering innovation and steering our team towards a sustainable future. Together, we’re not just building batteries; we’re igniting a powerful spark that propels us toward a cleaner, greener tomorrow. Let’s charge ahead and redefine what’s possible in the world of electric vehicles!”
Meet Richy Gamo, assistant project manager and communications lead:
“What excites me about the BattChallenge? The project is fun and exciting. In my role as the communications lead, I will be involved in connectivity and information sharing among the team members and the community.”
We encourage you to come join our all-hands-on-deck movement to lift the monumental weight of responsibility in transitioning vehicles from using combustion motor engines to embracing electric vehicle technology. We must work together to save our planet.
