Hayrettin Karayaka is a Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering at the College of Engineering and Technology, Western Carolina University. He leads initiatives to establish electric power engineering as a formal discipline within the institution, focusing on outreach, curriculum development, and recruitment. His research emphasizes renewable energy systems, smart grid technologies, and engineering education innovation. Dr. Karayaka holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering from The Ohio State University and prior industry experience in smart grid and wireless communication sectors. Education: PhD, Electrical Engineering, The Ohio State University MS, Control Systems/Electrical Engineering, Istanbul Technical University BS, Control Systems/Electrical Engineering, Istanbul Technical University Research Focus: Renewable Energy Integration (wave, nuclear, solar) Smart Grid Optimization and Control Advanced Energy Storage Solutions Engineering Education Methodologies His work combines machine learning applications with traditional engineering principles to enhance energy system efficiency and sustainability. Key Projects: Nuclear workforce development programs Mobile lab initiatives for sustainability education Wave energy converter hardware-in-the-loop simulations










