Under present day technology, as electrical power is transmitted across copper and aluminum wires, much of its energy is lost as heat through resistence. Superconductors are special metallic and ceramic composites which, when cooled to very low temperatures, conduct electricity with no little or loss of power. Superconductors are coming into their own as an affordable and efficient means of transmitting power - especially through the technological advances being made by Schenectady's own SuperPower, which is currently the international record-holder in the manufacture of superconductor wire.

In the special project with Union College and SCCC, efforts will be made to accelerate the time for SuperPower to move from research and development to manufacture of commercial lengths (100 meters or more) of this special wire. Union College researchers will work with SuperPower engineers to develop new production processes and quality control techniques. As these processes are developed, SCCC faculty will work with the collaborators to translate the processes into curriculum to be delivered to SCCC students, who are training for employment in this new, emerging technology or elsewhere within the nanotech industry of Tech Valley.

Dean Ed Baker (left) and Dr. Ruth McEvoy have been representing SCCC in the development of this special project. Targeted for funding under the NYS Assembly's RESTORE-NY legislation, the proposal has been presented the Assembly and has received full endorsement and support from Mayor Brian Stratton, County Legislature Chair Susan Savage, Metroplex Chair Ray Gillen, and Chamber President Chuck Steiner.