Support and Media Coverage of Technology Research Center Opening in Old Town

Director Pendse with Recognized Awardees

The grand opening of the Technology Research Center on June 18th was a huge success attended by more than 120 participants. They got the opportunity to meet FBRI researchers, faculty, and students and their research demonstration at 6 stations in the research facility.

FBRI Director Dr. Pendse welcomed the guests. U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud, University of Maine President Paul Ferguson were among the speakers during the morning ceremony in the TRC lobby. Other speakers were University of Maine System Chancellor James Page; John Wolanski, president of the UMaine-based Pulp and Paper Foundation; Steven Schley of the FBRI Advisory Board and president of Pingree Associates; Doug Ray, spokesperson and legislative liaison of the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development; and Susan MacKay, president of Cerahelix, which is one of several private companies eager to advance its work at TRC.

The event was widely covered by the news and TV media.  Please click on the websites below to see the coverage.  Our U.S. Senators also sent their prepared statements.

Statement from U.S. Senator Susan Collins:

“I am delighted to see the expansion of the University of Maine Forest Bioproducts Research Institute. I have worked hard to secure federal dollars for the important work that you have done to help bring Maine to the forefront in the development of forest-based bioproducts. This new Technology Research Center will enable you to expand and further your efforts to create jobs, build new businesses, and train future scientists. Your hard work and dedication to excellence are to be commended.”

Statement from U.S. Sen. Olympia Snowe:

“At a time when high energy costs continue to burden Maine families, today’s grand opening of the Maine Forest Bioproducts Research Institute’s new Technology Research Center signals a landmark day for research into utilizing Maine’s forests for energy solutions. As the most heavily forested state in the United States, Maine has a tremendous asset that has powered our State for generations and this facility will continue to advance Maine’s efforts to take advantage of this resource to expand our economy. Collaboration between researchers and the business community is critical in competing in a modern economy and I am encouraged that this University of Maine facility, through the generosity of Old Town Fuel and Fiber, will further expand our united effort to develop and commercialize products that will continue to power our forest products industry for a new generation.”

UMaine News – Technology Research Center Opens in Old Town

WLBZ 2 news Coverage

Bangor Daily News: New UMaine technology center to turn wood chips and grass into fuel and plastics

WCSH 6 Portland

WABI TV5 Coverage