Study Hard, Play Hard

Papers, camera, water bottles clutter a table while students work around it.

A Michigan Tech degree is the goal — but along the way, Huskies explore their passions as members in the University's registered student organizations (RSOs).

Get a glimpse of life beyond the classroom from RSOs that take students places, from the campus news beat to the Keweenaw’s famed snowmobile trails, in our 2025 Michigan Tech Magazine.

Michigan Tech's ChE, MSE Departments Join Critical Materials Innovation Hub

Michigan Technological University's Department of Chemical Engineering (ChE) and Department of Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) have officially joined the Critical Materials Innovation Hub (CMI) Affiliates Program.

CMI, managed by the Ames National Laboratory and supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, brings together leading universities, national laboratories and industry partners to address challenges surrounding the supply, use and recycling of critical materials vital to the nation's energy and manufacturing sectors.

As CMI Affiliates, Michigan Tech will:

  • Gain opportunities to collaborate and network with researchers and industry leaders across the nation.
  • Participate in CMI's annual meetings and webinars.
  • Connect with students, postdocs and researchers for recruitment and
    collaboration.
  • Stay informed on funding opportunities and innovations in critical materials.

This new affiliation highlights Michigan Tech's commitment to advancing research and innovation in sustainable materials and energy solutions. By joining the CMI Hub, the ChE and MSE departments are strengthening their ability to contribute to national efforts in securing critical material supply chains while offering students and faculty broader avenues for research impact.

Jazz Studies Minor Michael Tarske Plays Music for the Cubs

Michael Tarske is a senior electrical engineering technology major, but he's also a talented trumpeter and arranger minoring in jazz studies during his time at Michigan Tech.

Tarske has played in just about every instrumental ensemble at MTU. He has worn stripes with the Huskies Pep Band and tuxedos with the Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra, and has screamed high notes with the Jazz Lab Band and the Workshop Brass Band.

This past weekend, Tarske made the leap to the professional level after being called to play trumpet with the Chicago-based Four Star Brass Band. The gig? Wrigley Field, playing for the Chicago Cubs.

Fans of the Cubs heard Tarske's high notes ring through the stadium as part of the band's performance before and after the Cubs' 4-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday, Aug. 17.

MTU's Jazz Studies program and the Department of Visual and Performing Arts as a whole would like to congratulate Michael on this milestone!

Support the HuskyFAN Pantry!

Michigan Tech's food pantry, the Husky Food Access Network (HuskyFAN), is seeing record demand for our services. To date, we've distributed over 11,000 pounds of food this year, highlighting the critical issue of food insecurity on campus.

You can help keep our pantry stocked and accessible for students who need it. Please consider donating non-expired, nonperishable food and toiletries. Your contribution makes a direct impact on our students' success and well-being.

Donations can be dropped off anytime outside the pantry, located in the Fisher Hall alcove across from Fisher 135.

High-Need Items:

  • Soup
  • Canned meat and fish
  • Canned fruits and vegetables
  • Snack foods and cereal
  • Pasta, rice and lentils

Thank you for your generosity and for helping to ensure a more successful semester for all of our Huskies.

Thank You for Supporting the MUB Games Collection

Dear MTU Campus Community,

On behalf of the Memorial Union team, we want to sincerely thank you for the incredible generosity you've shown in response to our request for games and activities. We were overwhelmed by the number of donations we received.

Because of your support, the MUB will now have a growing collection of games available for students to enjoy. These donations will help us create a welcoming and fun space where students can relax, connect with one another and build community.

This project would not have been possible without your kindness and willingness to give. Thank you for helping us enhance student life at the Memorial Union. We can't wait to see students making the most of the games collection in the months ahead.

We will continue to gratefully accept donations at the Memorial Union Office (MUB 101).

Make New Friends, Rep Your Culture in the Parade of Nations!

Whether you're new to Michigan Tech or back for another exciting year, this is your official invite to one of the most colorful, fun and welcoming events of the year: the Parade of Nations on Sept. 20!

The parade starts at 11 a.m. outside the Van Pelt and Opie Library and marches through downtown Houghton to Dee Stadium, where the multicultural festival kicks off. It's all about celebrating who we are, where we come from and how awesome we can be together.

Ready to get involved? Here's how:

  • Walk in the Parade with Your Group
    Campus org? Community group? Fraternal org that wants to dress up and dance down the street? We want you in the lineup. Walking groups help show off the incredibly rich cultural representation at Tech and in our community, and it's a great way to meet people and show your pride. Sign up your group to walk. Deadline for guaranteed spots is Sept. 9!
  • Carry a Flag (and Maybe Make Some Flag-Friends)
    Want to rep your heritage, your home country, or just a place you support? Grab a flag and walk in the parade, solo or with others. There's no need to be part of a big group. Everyone's welcome! Flag requests are due by Sept. 13. First come, first served!
  • Build a Float + Win Some Cash
    Yes, there are prizes! If you're part of a student org or community group, you can enter a float based on this year's theme: Games Around the World. Get creative and show off your favorite game, sport or hobby! Bonus: Student orgs can apply for a float grant to help cover supplies. Grant requests are due by next Monday, Sept. 1. Float entries are due Sept. 6.
  • Volunteer Behind the Scenes
    Not a walker or builder? No worries! You can still be part of the magic. Help set up, carry signs, guide groups or lend a hand at the festival. It's a fun way to give back, and you'll be part of the energy that keeps the event running smoothly. Volunteer shifts are open now! This is your chance to show up, be seen and be part of something that brings everyone together. Grab your friends or come solo! Sign up, and we'll see you on Sept. 20.

Questions? Shoot Parade of Nations organizers an email at paradeofnations@mtu.edu or stop by the International Programs and Services office on the second floor of the Administration Building (Admin 200).

Let's make this year's Parade of Nations the most vibrant one yet.

EPSSI Seminar with Elise Rosky

Elise Rosky of the National Science Foundation's (NSF's) National Center of Atmospheric Research (NCAR) will give a talk today, Aug. 25, at 4 p.m. in GLRC 202. A social with refreshments will be held at 3:30 p.m. in the GLRC Lobby.

The presentation is titled "The Growth of Snowflakes and Ice in Clouds Over the Arctic Ocean: Stories Found in Stable Water Isotopes Collected with a Research Aircraft."

Read the abstract on the University Events Calendar.

Job Postings

Job Postings for Monday, Aug. 25, 2025

Staff and faculty job descriptions are available on the Human Resources website. For more information regarding staff positions, call 906-487-2280 or email humanresources@mtu.edu. For more information regarding faculty positions, contact the academic department in which the position is posted.

Food Service Helper (first shift, nine months, two positions available), Dining Services. (AFSCME posting dates are Aug. 25 to Aug. 29, 2025. External applicants are encouraged to apply; however, internal AFSCME applicants are given first consideration if they apply during the internal AFSCME posting dates.) Apply online.

Food Service Helper (first shift, ​12 months), Dining Services. (AFSCME posting dates are Aug. 25 to Aug. 29, 2025. External applicants are encouraged to apply; however, internal AFSCME applicants are given first consideration if they apply during the internal AFSCME posting dates.) Apply online.

S​tores Clerk (first shift, ​12 months), Dining Services. (AFSCME posting dates are Aug. 25 to Aug. 29, 2025. External applicants are encouraged to apply; however, internal AFSCME applicants are given first consideration if they apply during the internal AFSCME posting dates.) Apply online.

S​tores Clerk (first shift, ​nine months), Dining Services. (AFSCME posting dates are Aug. 25 to Aug. 29, 2025. External applicants are encouraged to apply; however, internal AFSCME applicants are given first consideration if they apply during the internal AFSCME posting dates.) Apply online.

Postdoctoral Scholar, Geological Mining Engineering and Sciences. Apply online.

Michigan Technological University is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution/Equal Opportunity Employer that provides equal opportunity for all, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Accommodations are available. If you require any auxiliary aids, services, or other accommodations to apply for employment, or for an interview, at Michigan Technological University, please notify the Human Resources office at 906-487-2280 or humanresources@mtu.edu.

In the News

Zhanping You (CEGE/MTTI) was quoted by MLive in a story about an Ann Arbor road project using asphalt made with recycled scrap tires. Michigan Tech researchers are studying how the tire-mixed asphalt compares to traditional pavement, with early results suggesting it resists cracking and potholes during freeze-thaw cycles.

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Matt Weekley (RL) was quoted by the Keweenaw Report in a story about Michigan Tech's new East Hall filling with students as the fall semester begins. The residence hall is geared toward returning students and features amenities such as private bathrooms, study lounges, a fitness center and a 24/7 convenience store.

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Photonics Online referenced Michigan Tech research in a story about how photon-counting lidar systems are transforming climate monitoring. The piece cited MTU's work showing how advanced lidar can provide high-resolution cloud and aerosol measurements, offering new insights into atmospheric processes that drive climate change.

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R&D World Online mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about the 2025 R&D 100 Awards, recognizing MTU as a co-developer with General Motors, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Ohio State University, and others on a low-mass, high-efficiency medium-duty truck engine.

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The Driller mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's R/V Lake Guardian, which is conducting its annual Great Lakes summer survey. Michigan Tech researchers joined EPA scientists and other partners aboard the vessel to collect data on plankton, algal blooms, invasive species and overall lake health.

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Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about a new thin-triple glass window technology, an innovation that is helping U.S. manufacturers scale up production of energy-efficient windows. MTU researchers collaborated with the Berkeley Lab to develop industry guidance for performance testing and safe handling of the new windows.

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Grand Rapids' WWMA Fox 17 mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about college move-in week across Michigan, noting that MTU students began moving in Aug. 18.

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Livingston Daily News mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about the start of fall semester classes across Michigan. MTU's Move-In Days for new students were held Aug. 18-19, and classes begin today, Aug. 25.

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The Daily Mining Gazette mentioned Michigan Tech's Arnold Air Society in a story about its annual POW/MIA Memorial 5K fundraiser. The event, which supports the Hubbell VFW Post 4624, will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, at the ROTC Building.

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The Tube and Pipe Journal mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about the Formula SAE competition at Michigan International Speedway, where MTU competed alongside teams from Northern Illinois University, Texas A&M, Duke, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

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The Daily Mining Gazette reported on the passing of former Michigan Tech hockey player and coach Glen Weller. Weller was twice inducted into the Michigan Tech Sports Hall of Fame and also served as a Huskies assistant coach, radio broadcaster, and member of the Hockey Advisory Council.

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Great Lakes Echo mentioned Michigan Tech in a story about Michigan high school students who built and drove a solar-powered car on a statewide road trip that ended at MTU's campus in July.

Reminders

Are You Interested in Advising a Student Organization?

Student Leadership and Involvement is looking for Michigan Tech staff and faculty who are interested in becoming advisors for registered student organizations (RSOs).

While we do not have a specific need at this time, vacancies occur regularly throughout the year due to staffing changes or the establishment of new student groups. Collecting this information before a vacancy occurs allows us to provide a smooth and efficient resource for groups who seek advice or direction on finding a new advisor.

As an advisor, you will have the chance to provide guidance and support to student leaders while fostering an environment that encourages leadership, innovation and collaboration. Learn more about being an RSO advisor on our website.

To express your interest in becoming an advisor, please take a moment to fill out our interest form. Your participation will not only benefit our students but also contribute to the overall enrichment of our University community.

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Fall MTU Aquatics: Register Now!

Registration is open for Session 1 of Fall 2025 Michigan Tech Aquatics programs, and classes are filling up! Registration for Session 1 closes on Wednesday, Aug. 27, at 11:59 p.m.!

Explore our programs for all ages and abilities:

We’re excited to announce that beginning with fall 2025 program registration, we will be transitioning to a new recreation program registration system designed to better support our youth and family programming. As part of this upgrade, there is an important change to how you will register your child for youth programs.

Important Information for Parents/Guardians: To register your child for aquatics programs this coming fall, you’ll need to:

  1. Create your account.
  2. Add your children as your affiliates (with their date of birth).
  3. Register your child through their affiliate profile (profile options in top right corner), not your own, for any program with an age requirement (this ensures accurate participant info and correct age group placement).

Create your accounts early to be ready!

Thank you for your support as we make this exciting transition! We’re confident this new system will offer a more user-friendly and efficient experience for all.

Questions? Contact Aquatics Manager Annie Bengry at ambengry@mtu.edu or 906-487-2995.

See you at the pool!

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Woodland Hill Preschool Still Accepting Students for Fall 2025

Woodland Hill Preschool is currently enrolling for the 2025-26 school year and still has limited openings available in our afternoon 3-year-old class and all 4-year-old classes.

A nonprofit preschool located just minutes from Michigan Tech's campus, Woodland Hill has served local families for 67 years. Generations of students have begun their learning journeys with us through our play-based, nurturing, developmentally appropriate programs.

Woodland Hill Preschool is open to all community members. Families living in Michigan Tech's Daniell Heights Apartments receive a 50% discount on tuition.

For residents needing extended care, students may be enrolled in both morning and afternoon sessions, provided that families can take their child during the lunch break between sessions.

To learn more about our programs or request a tour, please visit the Woodland Hill Preschool website or email woodlandhillpreschool@gmail.com.

Today's Campus Events

To have your event automatically appear, please submit them to the University Events Calendar.

Oh! The Places You Came From!

Our students come from all over the world! Stop and put yourself on the map at our Digital Scholarship@VPOL display so we can see where you were before coming to MTU.

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Library Origami Inquiry Quest

Explore the library in search of origami creatures. Scan their QR code to check out our library FAQs. Afterward, stop by the “Ask Us!” desk on the first floor to tell one of our Student Research Consultants something new you learned about the library in exchange for a prize.

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Library Origami Inquiry Quest

Explore the library in search of origami creatures. Scan their QR code to check out our library FAQs. Afterward, stop by the “Ask Us!” desk on the first floor to tell one of our Student Research Consultants something new you learned about the library in exchange for a prize.

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First Day of Class Photo Shoot and Treats!

It’s the first day of class—what a wonderful sight! With snacks and a photo, you’ll start off just right. Bring your friends, bring your grin, Let the new school year begin! Join the Alumni Engagement Office and Student Leadership & Involvement for sweet treats and a first-day photo with your pack!

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First Day of Class Photos + Treats

Begin your journey with a sweet treat and capture a memorable first-day-of-class photo! Join us on Monday, August 25, 2025, between 9:30-11:30 a.m. in front of the Husky Statue to strike a pose and commemorate the start of your next adventure at Michigan Tech.

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Portage Lake District Library Card Sign-up

Sign up for a public library card from the Portage Township Library--and do it at the campus library

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Portage Lake District Library Card Sign-up

Sign up for a public library card from the Portage Township Library--and do it at the campus library

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EPSSI Seminar: Dr. Elise Rosky

This event will be held in the GLRC. Refreshments and a social will be held at 3:30pm in the GLRC Lobby, with the lecture to follow at 4:00pm in GLRC 202. Dr. Elise Rosky, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at NSF's National Center of Atmospheric Research (NCAR), will give a talk on Monday, August 25. The title of the talk is "The Growth of Snowflakes and Ice in Clouds Over the Arctic Ocean: Stories Found in Stable Water Isotopes Collected with a Research Aircraft." Abstract: The growth of ice particles in Arctic clouds remains a major source of regional model uncertainty, impacting model predictions of cloud lifetime and cloud coverage over the polar oceans. To address the uncertainty around ice growth in Arctic clouds, the Cold Air Outbreak Experiment in the Sub-Arctic Region (CAESAR) flew a research aircraft into clouds advecting across the Greenland and Norwegian Seas, February through April of 2024, collecting images of ice particles and measuring cloud properties. Novel measurements of stable water isotopes in the cloud water and vapor were collected, providing information about ice growth processes that are difficult to obtain with other measurement techniques. Stable water isotopes, deuterium (D) and oxygen-18 (O18), exist in trace amounts in water everywhere. The concentration of stable water isotopes contained within frozen water depends on environmental conditions during the ice formation, such as air temperature and relative humidity. This property of ice has famously been used to reconstruct past temperature records from ice core layers. Using the same principle, ice crystals inside of clouds also carry isotopic signatures that reflect their growth history. The isotopic composition of water within Arctic clouds can reveal information about how cloud-ice forms and grows. Bio: Dr Rosky earned her PhD in Physics from Michigan Technological University in 2023. She currently holds a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position at the NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in Boulder, CO.

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Collegiate DECA Kickoff Meeting!

Join Collegiate DECA for our first meeting of the year! Learn about our org, hear about our summer success stories, and meet our e-board!

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Engineering Ambassadors Giant Slingshot

Join Engineering Ambassadors during Welcome Week to test out our giant slingshot! Learn about the concepts of slingshots and how we use them to teach grade schoolers about engineering.

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WGC Range Day

A 1-hour event at the PLGC driving range to work on your swing! -Rides will be leaving Wadsworth at 4:45 PM! Meet under the awning outside the main doors. -Clubs will be provided if need be! -Please bring your MTU ID and check in at the clubhouse in order to use the range for free

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Study Away Welcome Back Reception

Join our recently returned Spring and Summer study away students for an evening of dinner, stories, and reflection. Welcome in our new incoming exchange students. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP through our Study Away RSVP Google Form..

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Capture the Flag Across Campus

Connect with RSOs and groups around campus in large and cross-campus Capture the Flag event! At the start of your first semester on campus, show off your skills and connect with your friends from Orientation Week. Please see https://usg.mtu.edu/ctf for more information on the event and how to sign-up! To ensure fair, safe, and comfortable play for all involved, the following ruleset will be used: - Multiple flags per side will be present - There will be no physical tagging, all players will have "flag belts" - No building access will be permitted (except for emergencies and restrooms) REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED, and all participants must SIGN A WAIVER before taking place. To sign-in at the event, visit Walker Lawn and check in at the USG Table to get your team and equipment. Reach out to usg@mtu.edu if you have any questions!