November 18, 2025

Husky Elijah Nieman is seeking the sweet spot between human adaptability and artificial intelligence’s tirelessness. The graduate student is studying AI decision-making behavior to help the U.S. Navy’s intelligent onboard systems make better judgment calls in a constantly changing environment.

Nieman, who is on track to receive his Ph.D. in Applied Cognitive Science and Human Factors in 2027, was selected to participate in the Naval Research Enterprise Internship Program in summer 2025. For his 10-week internship, he worked in the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in Mississippi’s John C. Stennis Space Center.

“What my research does is extend our ability to, in a sense, know what we don’t know,” said Nieman. “With all of the hype around AI, it feels very practical to take a step back and establish the fundamentals of the human and the machine to inform how we integrate with new technology.”

Explore Nieman’s research on Michigan Tech’s Unscripted Research Blog.

Yesterday, Nov. 17, the Great Lakes Research Center celebrated the first round of our annual Achievement Award winners. 

After receiving nominations from across the GLRC research institute and its affiliated research centers, we happily highlighted five faculty and their achievements with a luncheon and award ceremony. The winners are:

• Kristin Brzeski (CFRES)
• David Flaspohler (CFRES)
• Hayden Henderson (GLRC)
• Amy Marcarelli (BioSci/ESC)
• Chelsea Schelly (SS/CISR)

Congratulations to the awardees!

This week's University Senate meeting scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 20, is canceled as there is no new business to discuss.

Our next meeting is scheduled for Dec. 4.

There will be no Tech Today published next Thursday and Friday, Nov. 27 and 28, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

Graduate student thesis and dissertation defenses scheduled for Dec. 1-5 will be announced next Wednesday, Nov. 26, in "Defenses Next Week."

Tech Today will resume publication the following Monday, Dec. 1.

Early Deadline for Dec. 1 Tech Today
To be included in our Dec. 1 newsletter, please submit your Tech Today post(s) by noon next Tuesday, Nov. 25, using our Submit a Post form.

Financial Services and Operations (FSO) is holding a virtual Lunch and Learn today, Nov. 18, from noon to 1 p.m. ET on Zoom.

For anyone who has not yet received the Zoom link via Google Calendar invite and for those interested in joining who did not previously register, please join us with the following Zoom link:

Join FSO's Lunch and Learn on Zoom.

It is not required to register in advance for today's event, but if you would like the opportunity to provide feedback after the session, please consider registering on our Lunch and Learn Registration form.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Jamie Meleen at jameleen@mtu.edu or 906-487-2122.

Tuesday, Nov. 18
• Michigan Tech Hockey Radio Show, 10 a.m. on Mix 93 WKMJ
 
Wednesday, Nov. 19
• Volleyball at Wayne State (GLIAC Quarterfinal), 7 p.m.
 
Thursday, Nov. 20
• Women's Basketball vs. Minnesota Duluth, 5:30 p.m. at SDC Gym on Mix 93 WKMJ & FloCollege
 
Friday, Nov. 21
• Women's Basketball vs. St. Cloud State, 5:30 p.m. at SDC Gym on Mix 93 WKMJ & FloCollege
• Men's Basketball at Minnesota Duluth, 7 p.m.
• Hockey at Minnesota State, 8:07 p.m. on Mix 93 WKMJ & Midco Sports Plus
 
Saturday, Nov. 22
• Volleyball at GLIAC Tournament Semifinals
• Men's Basketball at St. Cloud State, 2:30 p.m.
• Hockey at Minnesota State, 8:07 p.m. on Mix 93 WKMJ & Midco Sports Plus
 
Sunday, Nov. 23
• Volleyball at GLIAC Championship

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Athletics News
Read more in the MTU Athletics weekly update.

Job Postings for Tuesday, Nov. 18, 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.

Business Systems Analyst I, Information Technology.

Residence Education Coordinator, Residential Living.

Instructional Lab Specialist, Chemistry.

Assistant Teaching Professor, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

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.

WCMU Public Media quoted Colin Brooks (MTRI) in a story about a new partnership that will bring long-distance drone testing operations to the eastern Upper Peninsula. Brooks discussed the Michigan Tech Research Institute’s role in leading data analytics for the initiative, which aims to advance emergency response, infrastructure inspection and logistics applications.

Spartan Newsroom, WKAR Public Media and the Escanaba Daily Press quoted Rolf Peterson (CFRES) in coverage of new research examining how gray wolves on Isle Royale seasonally shift their hunting patterns to target beavers, reshaping the island’s ecosystem.

The Daily Mining Gazette quoted Charles Wallace (CS/PsyHF) and mentioned Kay Tislar (PsyHF) in a story about Michigan Tech students offering free tech assistance and leading digital skills workshops during Digital Help Day at the Portage Lake District Library.

WLUC TV6 and the Daily Mining Gazette mentioned Michigan Tech in stories about a student-led soup fundraiser that raised $3,500 for the Western U.P. Food Bank. The DMG quoted MTU student Morgan Halley-Gluesing (environmental engineering), who helped organize the event.

WLUC TV6 quoted MTU students Henry LeCaptain (chemical engineering) and Nicholas Joerin (materials science and engineering) in a story about members of the Automotive Enthusiasts student organization helping the campus community prepare their vehicles for winter.

The Lansing State Journal and Yahoo! News mentioned Michigan Tech in coverage of the Michigan universities included in The Princeton Review’s list of 388 green colleges.

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

Mental Health Screening

Tuesday, November 18, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. | Hamar House Conference Room

College is stressful, we get it. Take 10 minutes to check in with yourself at our free Mental Health Screening Day. You deserve to feel your best.

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Xi Sigma Pi Silent Auction!

Tuesday, November 18, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. | Noblet Forestry Building Wood Room Second Floor

Xi Sigma Pi's annual silent auction is going to be on Tuesday November 18th from 10:00am to 6:00pm, which is the week before Thanksgiving break. We'll have various items donated by CFRES students, faculty, and staff. In the past we've had earrings, posters, shirts, and hats. Items will be displayed in the wood room on the second floor of the U.J. Noblet building with papers for bidding with each item. Item pickup will be starting at 6:00pm, when the auction ends, until 6:30pm. Anything not picked up then will be held in Noblet 145A, the CFRES learning center, during our regular hours the next day. If items are not picked up then by the highest bidder, the second bidder will be emailed and can pick it up the following day. Payment in cash is preferred, but Venmo is accepted. Come get some cool items, and we hope to see you there!

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PhD Defense: Benjamin Jewell

Tuesday, November 18, 10:30–11:30 a.m. | R. L. Smith Building (MEEM), 1021

Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics Advisor: Trisha Sain Linking Molecular Structure Evolution to Mechanical Degradation During Environmental Aging in Conventional and Recyclable Epoxy Systems

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Reading Group on Early Christian Thought: St. Augustine of Hippo’s Confessions

Tuesday, November 18, 12 p.m.–1 p.m. | Walker Arts and Humanities Center, Petersen Library (318)

Join us on Tuesdays at noon for the Fall 2025 reading group on early christian though! What? St. Augustine of Hippo’s Confessions Where? 3rd Floor of Walker, Peterson Library (120C on 9/16 during Peterson renovations) When? Tuesdays at Noon starting Sep 9, 2025 Who? You! No prior knowledge of Augustine, theology, ethics, or Christianity required– this reading group is open to all! This reading group is hosted by Dr. T rish Grosse Brewer (tgbrewer@mtu.edu, Humanities). Dr. Brewer’s educational background is in philosophy and religion and her research focuses on the thought of Augustine of Hippo. Augustine’s Confessions is considered to be the first autobiography. In it, a middle aged Bishop gives an account of his birth to his conversion to Christianity and the death of his mother. The book concludes with an exploration of the first three books of Genesis. W e will determine our reading pace together in the first meeting. We will use the Chadwick translation.

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Staff Council Meeting

Tuesday, November 18, 12 p.m.–1 p.m. | J. Robert Van Pelt and John and Ruanne Opie Library, 216

Come join Staff Council for our monthly meeting! Staff Council is a service organization within the University whose charge is: to assist the University in recognizing outstanding performance and ongoing dedicated service by staff membersto maximize the use of talents and resources of the staff to support educational programs and to develop and strengthen skills and professionalism among the staffto provide events and opportunities that enhance the working environment of Michigan TechEach meeting consists of a notable guest speaker to share updates from around campus, updates about upcoming Staff Council programs and events, and opportunities to chat amongst a community of fellow staff members. Membership on Staff Council is voluntary, open, and available to any eligible staff member. Staff Council exists to support Michigan Tech staff: full-time, part-time, nine-month, or ten-month; non-student, non-faculty. As a reminder, union-represented employees are entitled to release time for professional development activities, including staff recognition programs deemed relevant by the University. Employees should work with their supervisors to ensure coverage during their absence. Supervisors may contact Human Resources for guidance on eligibility and the process for granting this release time.

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Navigating Health Insurance - Husky Hour

Tuesday, November 18, 4 p.m.–5 p.m. | Chem Sci 104

Confused by copays, deductibles, and what's actually covered? You're not alone. Join us for our Navigating Health Insurance Husky Hour, a fun event designed to help you make sense of navigating health insurance and your coverage. We’ll break down key terms, explain how to use your insurance, and help ease frustrations with understanding your policy.

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La Peña Spanish Conversation Hour

Tuesday, November 18, 5 p.m.–6 p.m. | Walker Arts and Humanities Center, 120A

Join us every other Tuesday this for La Peña, Spanish Conversation Hour, from 5-6pm in Walker 120A! Come practice your Spanish, hang out with other Spanish-speakers, play games, and maybe learn something new! All levels are welcome. Questions? Contact Estela Mira Barreda ebarreda@mtu.edu

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Leveraging AI in the Job Search

Tuesday, November 18, 5 p.m.–6 p.m.

Learn how to use AI tools to enhance your job search from writing tailored resumes and cover letters to preparing for interviews. Discover smart strategies to save time, stay organized, and stand out in a competitive market.

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Linux workshop

Tuesday, November 18, 5 p.m.–6 p.m. | Rekhi 112

This workshop will introduce you to the essentials of Linux, Git, and version control. You’ll learn how to set up and navigate a Linux environment, manage files and directories, and understand commonly used commands. The session will also cover the basics of Git, including creating repositories, committing changes, branching, and collaborating on projects through version control. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a solid foundation to confidently use Linux and Git for coursework, research, or collaborative development projects.

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NCSA General Meeting

Tuesday, November 18, 6 p.m.–7 p.m. | Chem-Sci 211

NCSA's weekly meeting is where we cover what's going on in the organization, often followed by a guest presenter, then discussion of what's going on in the world of tech. Meeting time and location may be subject to changes (ex. room conflicts, guest availability). Announcements will be made in NCSA's Discord server, invite link available via our website.

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Scrappy Hour

Tuesday, November 18, 6 p.m.–8 p.m. | Fisher Hall

Come join us for a hodgepodge of various crafts. From paint to beads, keychains to ornament making, and so much more! Hang out and craft with MUB Board's Arts and Leisure committee and the amazing Tiny Knitz who will be providing lessons on how to crochet! Come while supplies last!

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Student Community Meal

Tuesday, November 18, 6:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. | Good Shepard

Join us for our weekly free student meal, held Tuesdays during the semester at Good Shepard Lutheran Church. Come to cook, serve, eat, clean up, or all of the above! Cooking begins at 5pm and anyone is welcome to help cook. The meal is served from 6:30pm-7:30pm and any students are welcome to eat at the church and visit with friends or take a to-go box! If you would like to help with the meal but can't be there at 5, we also welcome people to help clean up from around 6:30pm to about 8pm. To stay up to date on weekly menus, follow the LCM instagram @lcm.mtu

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Husky Hobbies: Shrinkydinks

Tuesday, November 18, 7 p.m.–9 p.m. | Alley Makerspace (MUB basement)

Join the craft club to make some shrinkydinks! All materials provided and no experience required

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Husky Hobbies: Shrinkydinks

Tuesday, November 18, 7 p.m.–9 p.m. | Alley Makerspace (MUB basement)

Join the craft club to make some shrinkydinks! All materials provided and no experience required

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November General Meeting

Tuesday, November 18, 7 p.m.–8 p.m. | EERC 508

Join the Optics and Photonics Society (OPS) at MTU for our November General Meeting! Guest speaker James Davis from the Michigan Tech Research Institute (MTRI) will be presenting on his research on the simulation of nonlinear optical materials demonstrating the Kerr effect and other nonlinear processes. Come learn more about OPS and enjoy pizza and snacks!

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Men On Boats - Michigan Tech Theatre

Tuesday, November 18, 7:30 p.m. | McArdle Theatre

MICHIGAN TECH THEATRE SERIES EVENT Men on Boats is a play by Jaclyn Backhaus that tells the true story of John Wesley Powell's 1869 expedition down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon, where he led a crew of ten men on a perilous journey through uncharted rapids and treacherous terrain. Highlighting both the physical challenges of the expedition and the interpersonal dynamics between the crew members, often portrayed with a humorous and satirical edge; a unique aspect of the play is that it is performed with a cast of women and non-binary actors depicting the historically male crew. The production features a talented cast of Michigan Tech students: John Wesley Powell - Paige Harsevoort William Dunn - Celia Peters John Colton Sumner - Zoe Oetjens Old Shady - Leona Lins Bradley - Ysa Cerbo O. G. Howland - Sebastian Dash Seneca Howland - Drew Karimi Frank Goodman - Lexi Meyer Hall - Abby Pilon Hawkins - Alyssa Johnson Things to know DATE | Tuesday-Friday, November 18-21, 2025 TIME | 7:30 p.m. LOCATION | McArdle Theatre EST. RUN TIME | 90 Minutes, no intermission SEATING | General Admission PUBLIC TICKETS | Pay As You're Able ($20 Full Fee) What is Pay As You're Able? MICHIGAN TECH STUDENT RUSH TICKETS | Request from the Rozsa Box Office in advance or walk up What is Student Rush? CONTENT GUIDANCE | Alcohol use, tobacco use, adult language, & simulated gun fire. Tickets may be purchased at the door in McArdle Theatre, online, or on the phone/in person at the Rozsa Box Office during Rozsa Box Office Hours. Rozsa Lobby is open 8 a.m.-8 p.m. M-F and 1-8 p.m. on Saturdays. Seating begins a half hour prior to the event start time. Thanks to Our Sponsors Support for this Michigan Tech Theatre Event provided by: and the Visual and Performing Arts Circle of Supporters. About the Performers Meet the cast, creative team, and production team in the event's digital program. Programs are published at least one day prior to the event. About the Director: Nich Radcliffe teaches classes in acting, directing, theatre history, and dramatic theory & criticism. He also directs Michigan Tech Visual and Performing Arts Department theatrical productions and is faculty advisor to the MTU Performance Club. Nich holds a BA in Theatre with an Acting/Shakespeare concentration and an MFA in Directing with a secondary focus in Dramaturgy/New Play Development. In undergrad Nich studied acting with Tony winning Artistic Director and founding member of Looingglass Theatre, Andy White. He also studied Viewpoints with Emmy Nominee, star of stage and screen Alexandra Billings. View full bio. About the Presenter Michigan Tech Theatre creates live entertainment events for the Keweenaw, sharing the creative and scholarly work of students and faculty from the Department of Visual and Performing Arts. Performances range from traditional stage plays and musicals–performed in the McArdle Theatre or on the Rozsa stage–to haunted houses, interactive museum displays, and fashion shows. Part of the the annual Rozsa Season, the Michigan Tech Art, Music, and Theatre Series are presented by the Visual and Performing Arts Department. Through these series, students from across campus, community members, and faculty create art that connects us to the world. With majors in audio production and technology, sound design, theatre and entertainment technology, and nine minors, the department fosters creativity, self-motivation, and the development of practical and artistic skills. Everyone is welcome, and there's something for everyone. View all Michigan Tech Theatre Series Event. Related Events Haunted Smelter - Michigan Tech Theatre Thursday-Saturday, October 23-25, 2025 | 7 p.m. Men on Boats - Michigan Tech Theatre Tuesday-Friday, November 18-21, 2025 | 7:30 p.m. Proof - Michigan Tech Theatre Thursday-Saturday, February 19-21, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. Museum Explorations - Michigan Tech Theatre Thursday-Saturday, April 9-11, 2026 | TBA time Explore upcoming Michigan Tech Theatre Events. Plan Your Visit to the Rozsa Rozsa Box Office InformationAccessibility Services Find a Digital ProgramPlan your Parking​ Get Involved Volunteer to UsherDonate to Support the RozsaMeet Our DonorsGet Updates via Email View All Upcoming Events Personal Responsibility Statement Not all productions may appeal to or be appropriate for every person or for all ages. The Rozsa Center provides content guidance to alert audience members to common potentially sensitive or distressing material. Guests are encouraged to familiarize themselves with each event in order to make informed decisions prior to attending an event. Views Expressed Statement The views, information, thoughts, or opinions expressed in this program or event are those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent the policies of the Rozsa Center or Michigan Technological University. Effective Date: 2025/26.