Harry Bonilla

Due to the high penetration of fluctuating energy sources such as solar and wind, the electrical grid requires that the energy systems comprising the grid operate in a new paradigm.  This new operating paradigm forces advanced and existing energy systems to carry out higher ramp rates and lower load operation capability to meet the electrical demand, while at the same time, maintaining reliable and efficient operation. In addition, the control strategies in use in existing energy systems were generally designed for a single optimal operating range, however advanced energy systems today must be able to operate at a wide range of operating conditions. My research is exploring intelligent control solution tools to meet these requirements for advanced and existing energy systems. This talk will discuss agent-based approach, machine learning, controls, and operation strategies to address these challenges.

Biography:

Harry Bonilla-Alvarado earned his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Ana G. Mendez University, Gurabo, Puerto Rico, in 2016. During that time, he served for six years as a 91-B Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic for the 597^th Quartermaster Co. of the U.S. Army Reserve in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering and working as a graduate research assistant in the Decision Science program at the Ames Laboratory. The research involves combining machine learning, advanced control strategies, and cyber-physical systems to develop innovative solutions and tools for hybrid energy systems and power generation plants.

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Yashira Valentin

This webinar seeks to educate young professionals about the fundamentals of global warming, which has
led to climate change, and its origins. Specifically, explain how technological advances in engineering have
aided in providing solutions on all aspects of the climate crisis. We will dive into the most recent
technologies (pros and cons), the leading countries in carbon neutrality, as well as the status of Puerto
Rico in such matters. In addition, we will talk about political, economic, cultural, and social aspects of
these technologies. Finally, we will engage in dialogue about why it is crucial, in present times, to assist in
local and global efforts of climate change mitigation.

Biography:

Yashira has spent life creating her unique academic and professional path in the Environmental Science field. From a young age, she excelled in her passion for STEM by actively participating in Science Fairs. Further on, she conducted an undergraduate degree in Industrial Biotechnology at the University of Puerto Rico- Mayagüez and fused her courses with research by participating in Environmental Science/Engineering REU’s. She has collaborated with institutions such as University of Michigan, South Dakota State University, and University of Massachusetts. She also collaborated with Biology and Chemistry laboratories in her alma mater. From all her undergraduate research experiences, she obtained two academic journal publications, one in which she is fourth author. After this, she obtained a Master of Engineering in Civil and Environmental Engineering from her alma mater. Collaborations as a graduate student included The Environmental Protection Agency, Army Geospatial Research Laboratory, and North Carolina State University.

Since then, she has become an active team member, leader, mentor, and environmental science educator/spokesperson by creating accessible communication bridges between academia and communities through public outreach. She possesses strong fundamental skills obtained through years of hard work; one of them being public speaking. Yashira is an enthusiastic learner, always improving her skills as well as discovering new things every day.

Currently, she volunteers as a tutor for college students in Puerto Rico under the nonprofit Stairs to Success, generates graduate school educational content and serves as a mentor for Lead Up- Mentoring Network, and forms part of the Clean Water Science Network Mentorship Program.

Among her future career plans, she is interested in pursuing a PhD in a research topic related, but not limited to Environmental Science and/or Engineering/Climate Change Communication/Sustainability.

 www.linkedin.com/in/valentinfelicianoyashira

  yashira.valentinfeliciano@gmail.com

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