The University of Iowa opens a series of events in Des Moines with a talk by P. Barry Butler, UI executive vice president and provost, on wind energy, which has emerged as a vital part of Iowa’s energy economy.

Butler will present “Wind Energy: Past, Present, and Future” Tuesday, Jan. 28, from noon to 1 p.m. at the UI John and Mary Pappajohn Education Center (JMPEC), 1200 Grand Ave. in Des Moines.

The event is free and open to the public, and a light lunch will be served. RSVP online at provost.uiowa.edu/lunchlearn.

Butler’s talk is the first in a series of Hawkeye Lunch and Learn events slated for the JMPEC. Sponsored by the Office of the Provost, the talks aim to build connections among Iowa communities, university faculty, and industry and government leaders.

“We want to highlight ways the university is working with partners across the state, strengthening existing relationships and creating new ones,” says Linda Snetselaar, associate provost for outreach and engagement.

Wind energy offers a prime example of UI collaboration with industry and community. The university’s College of Engineering is a major center for wind-energy research, with faculty expertise in everything from meteorology to materials. The university is a partner in the Iowa Alliance for Wind Innovation and Novel Development, which unites industry, education, and government to expand wind energy.

In addition to his role as UI provost, Butler is a professor of mechanical and industrial engineering in the UI College of Engineering, where he was previously dean. His Jan. 28 talk will focus on the societal impacts of wind energy, an overview of global wind resources, the history and technology behind wind turbines, and the state of Iowa’s status as a world leader in the field.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend in all UI-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this program, contact the Office of the Provost in advance at 319-335-3565.