Zongjie Wang, assistant professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and associate director of the Eversource Energy Center, has received the state-level Women in Innovation Award for research innovation and leadership from the Connecticut Technology Council.
This highly competitive state-level award, selected from a total of 45 finalists, recognizes women who have made outstanding contributions to innovation, research, and leadership in all STEM fields. Ms. Wang’s recognition highlighted her outstanding work in advancing grid resiliency, renewable energy integration, and grid modernization.
Zongjie Wang received the Women of Innovation Award at the 19th annual awards ceremony in Branford. (Courtesy of Wang Zongjie)
Ms. Wang’s contributions were also recognized by Connecticut State Senator Richard Blumenthal and Governor Ned Lamont, who provided an official certificate with specific comments highlighting the importance of her work to the state of Connecticut. .
Wang also appeared in a live interview on WTNH-TV Channel 8 to explain the background of his research, which aims to increase the resilience of the power grid by reducing power outages and enabling faster recovery during large-scale events. I discussed the impact of my research.
Ms. Wang reflected on the importance of this award and how this recognition helps increase the visibility of women’s contributions in STEM fields: “This award shines a light on women who are making significant contributions in STEM, particularly in engineering. This recognition is a great way to encourage more women to know that their work can truly make a difference. We will continue to encourage them to pursue careers and leadership roles.”
Mr. Wang was nominated for this prestigious award by Vice-Chancellor Leslie Scholl.
“Zongjie is one of our most productive and inspiring young faculty,” Scholl said. “We are so proud of the transformative impact her work has had on communities across Connecticut.”
In addition to his research leadership, Wang has played a pivotal role in driving innovative solutions for grid modernization at the Eversource Energy Center.
“Zonjie is one of the most motivated individuals I have ever had the pleasure of working with,” says Center Director Emmanuel “Manos” Anagnostou. “She is a bright and talented addition to the Eversource Energy Center and brings critical expertise in power system analysis and optimization. We are more connected than ever. Her leadership in industry support and education efforts is reflected in our growing strength and impact.”
In addition to honoring Wang’s accomplishments, this award underscores UConn’s commitment to supporting pioneering research that advances a more sustainable and resilient energy future. Mr. Wang’s work in renewable energy integration and power systems has had a lasting impact on Connecticut, the Northeast region and beyond.
