David Alexander
Principal Investigator
Dr. David Alexander is Interim Associate Dean and Associate Professor in the Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing (MMEM) department. He received a B.S. in physical science from California State University, Chico in 1992 and M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in mechanical engineering from the University of Idaho in 1999 and 2002. His research focused on modeling and simulation of hybrid electrical and conventional vehicle energy systems. Dr. Alexander co-founded a startup company that designed and developed advanced fast charging technology for consumer products. As CEO, he raised nearly $2 million, negotiated license agreements, co-authored six patents, and managed business and engineering functions. In 2012, he stepped down as CEO and returned to academia. Dr. Alexander teaches thermodynamics, energy systems, heat transfer, low-speed aerodynamics, and engineering capstone design. He has experience and interests in renewable energy, product development, design, and commercialization, intellectual property, and entrepreneurship. He is the advisor for Chico State’s Collegiate Wind Competition sponsored by the Department of Energy as well as advisor for Tau Beta Pi, ASME, and the Alternative Energy Club.