Research in Motion: An ASPIRE Student’s Journey of DWPT Publications

The warmth of accomplishment that comes from publishing research, then seeing others utilize that research, is one that Travis Newbolt, an ASPIRE Ph.D. candidate from The University of Texas at El Paso, is intimately familiar with. For Newbolt, his contributions to science and engineering have been a sustained, yet fulfilling, trek. 

“I began my research journey as an undergraduate, continued through a master’s degree, and am now pursuing a Ph.D.,” he shared. “Throughout this time, what excites me most is when someone references the collaborative work conducted through ASPIRE — it is deeply encouraging to see that my research is making a tangible impact in the field, as reflected in my 83 current citations on Google Scholar.” 

Newbolt’s research and publications are a part of ASPIRE’s Project 1: Charging Systems of the Future. These publications are an important part of the research progress, according to Newbolt’s Ph.D. advisor, Professor of Electrical & Computer Engineering Paras Mandal. 

“Doing research and not publishing is like cooking food and storing it inside the refrigerator at home,” Mandal explained. “The work needs to be disseminated to the research/education and broader community.” 

With 10 publications on dynamic wireless power transfer — including one recently accepted and available for early access, another presented in October, and an additional eight conference publications — Newbolt has spent long hours researching, writing, and reviewing for these presentations and publications.

“The opportunity to have my work published is personally fulfilling, as it validates the effort, dedication, and persistence I have invested throughout the research process,” he said. “This recognition continually motivates me to keep growing and progressing as a researcher.” 

His most recent presentation, “Optimal Placement of Large-Scale DWPT Networks in Distribution Grid”, was given at the 2025 Energy Conversion Conference and Expo in Philadelphia, PA, an experience that was “both rewarding and exciting”, according to Newbolt. 

An Accomplished Researcher 

This inspiring level of motivation has made him an important asset to ASPIRE’s research team, and his Ph.D. advisor speaks highly of his accomplishments. 

“Travis is a gem in my research lab, and he makes sure the work is done in a timely and high-quality manner,” Mandal said. “To the best of my knowledge, Travis is one of the best examples of a Ph.D. student-researcher that any advisor wishes to supervise and work with. His convincing research ideas, communication skills, and research ethics are highly praiseworthy.” 

Mandal isn’t the only one who has recognized the quality of Newbolt’s efforts. Newbolt has published in several top research journals, including the IEEE Transactions Journal. He was also a Best Paper Contest Finalist (top 5) at an IEEE conference and was the recipient of the Outstanding MSEE Thesis award through the UTEP College of Engineering in 2023. 

In addition to receiving significant recognition for his dedicated efforts, publishing his research has allowed for additional hands-on experiences and learning opportunities, including a year-round internship at the DOE National Laboratory — PNNL. 

“Publishing has strengthened my credibility as a researcher and has opened doors to several internships, where I was able to apply my academic knowledge in practical settings and further expand my skills,” he said. 

Opening Doors to Countless Possibilities 

According to Mandal, these opportunities fostered by ASPIRE open doors to countless possibilities. 

“Disseminating research findings to the respective community gives several opportunities to ASPIRE students,” he said. “Among other things, it allows them to attend conferences, develop networking skills, meeting other researchers and industry members for possible collaboration and future career opportunities, and exchange research ideas.” 

The combination of good researching and publication skills, as well as the opportunity to then apply them in an internship and at conferences, are the building blocks of a successful career. 

“I have gained first-hand knowledge of the process required to submit peer-reviewed journals or conference papers,” Newbolt said. “The experiences I have gained through ASPIRE have built the foundation necessary to pursue academic or professional career opportunities, not only to fulfil my personal goals but to also continue to contribute through research.” 

ASPIRE is dedicated to helping Newbolt and other students continue to find success through publishing their research. For students interested in getting involved, reach out to Student Engagement Coordinator Melanie Conrad.  

About ASPIRE: 

ASPIRE, a National Science Foundation Engineering Research Center headquartered at Utah State University, leads groundbreaking research and development to accelerate electrification. With over 400 global collaborators, ASPIRE focuses on creating seamless, affordable electrified transportation systems, accessible for all vehicle classes, along with the public infrastructure needed to support them. By reducing emissions, improving air quality, and fostering economic growth through job creation and workforce training, ASPIRE’s work spans engineering, social science, policy, and business. Partnering with top universities, industry leaders, and community groups, ASPIRE is driving the future of advanced transportation. Learn more at aspire.usu.edu. 

Contacts: 

Melanie Conrad
Student Engagement Coordinator
ASPIRE ERC 

Writer: 

Kayleigh Kearsley 
Marketing & Communications Intern 
ASPIRE ERC