CSULB partners with SoCalGas to solve real-world issues

This semester, multiple collaborations between SoCalGas and CSULB have come to exemplify the synergy between The Beach and local industry in addressing pressing issues. By providing students with opportunities to engage in meaningful research and practical applications, these partnerships foster innovation, professional development, and positive societal impact. 

One project focuses on implementing RFID technology to improve safety on construction sites. This system, developed by Ava Hedayatipour, Assistant Professor, and her students in the Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering and Computer Science Departments, enables real-time tracking to prevent "Struck-By" incidents, utilizing radio waves to identify people and objects, reducing risk. The collaboration provides students with hands-on experience in developing practical solutions for real-world challenges, enriching their educational experience while contributing to workplace safety. 

“While interviewing the many applicants I was proud of the passion in all the brilliant candidates. I was very proud when many of the undergraduates presented the research projects and competitions they were involved in as a part of many student organizations at COE” said Hedayatipour. “Characterized by a shared commitment to mitigating the risks and incidents in construction, SoCalGas serves as a vital partner, providing a real-world context for the research.” 

Another project tackles carbon dioxide emissions reduction in heavy industry through a carbon capture process design involving hydrogen/methane mixing. This interdisciplinary effort is spearheaded by students and faculty from multiple departments, led by Chemical Engineering Assistant Professor Yu Yang. The aim is to boost the hydrogen economy in California. By working closely with SoCalGas engineers, students gain valuable technical skills and industry insights, preparing them for future employment opportunities while advancing sustainable technologies. 

“This is a Win-Win collaboration. The professional engineers kindly share their experience and perspective to facilitate students' progress,” said Yang. “The team members meet regularly to share and exchange ideas. The students will learn technical skills, communication, and teamwork under their supervision.” 

SoCalGas serves as a mentor, providing guidance and support to students as they navigate the complexities of their projects. Through knowledge sharing, students benefit from exposure to real-world challenges and practical solutions, bridging the gap between academia and industry. 

“Students learn and realize that the real-word project is not only the mathematical equations and computer programming in the lab,” said Yang. “They need to know how to find the right person and effectively communicate with them to resolve the issues.”