Volume XV / 2026
The University of Texas at Arlington | College of Engineering
Large equipment in the PEIR Lab

PEIR Lab Launches

Research Facility Will Help Advance the Future of Power Systems

The Power and Energy Innovative Research (PEIR) Lab officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 16 in South Arlington.

At the same time, UTA announced that the U.S. Navy awarded PEIR Lab Director David Wetz an $86 million contract to advance power and propulsion systems that are critical for the future of Navy shipbuilding.

PEIR and its parent, the Pulsed Power and Energy Lab, bring significant federal investment to the state, strengthen national security, and help build a highly skilled engineering workforce. Its large, flexible power system can simulate real-world ship conditions, positioning North Texas as a preferred destination for the Department of Defense and the Navy to test next-generation power technologies.

“We're deeply grateful for this partnership that reflects years of collaborative work and a shared commitment to advancing innovations that matter,” Dr. Wetz says. “UTA is proud to contribute our expertise, facilities, and talent to support next-generation innovation while helping prepare the engineers who will continue to advance these technologies and the service members who will depend on them.” ₪