Division of Research & Innovation
UofM Convenes Industry Leaders to Advance Electrified and Automated Trucking Research
Industry partners assessed progress and funded new freight and logistics innovation projects through NSF-supported FLEET Center
On November 17, the University of Memphis hosted a day-long meeting of the Center for Freight & Logistics Efficiency with Electrified & Automated Trucking (FLEET) Industry Advisory Board at the FedEx Institute of Technology. The gathering brought together national industry, academic, and government partners to review ongoing research and select new projects for investment.
FLEET is a joint National Science Foundation Industry–University Cooperative Research Center (IUCRC) between the University of Memphis and Purdue University. Member organizations include FedEx Corporation, Applied Research Institute, FedEx Institute of Technology, Tennessee Valley Authority, Cummins, Wabash, and Start Co. The IUCRC program strengthens the impact of fundamental research by fostering direct collaboration between innovative companies, leading academic teams, and public-sector partners. Through this model, IUCRCs work toward three core objectives:
- Conduct high-impact research aligned with shared industry needs;
- Enhance U.S. leadership in emerging technologies; and
- Develop a diverse, highly skilled STEM workforce.
The meeting opened with remarks from Dr. David Russomanno, Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost at the University of Memphis. With participation from NSF program officials, center members reviewed progress across current research projects and then deliberated on new proposals aimed at further advancing FLEET’s mission.
The event concluded with a poster presentation and networking session featuring collaborative research led by UofM and Purdue faculty and students. As one of the nation’s major freight and logistics hubs, Memphis provides a unique environment for this work. The FLEET Center’s activities underscore the University of Memphis’ growing impact in electrified mobility, automated systems, and the future of transportation.
