CFRE Drives Student Innovation
Lake Superior State University’s Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE) leads in freshwater science and is now gaining support from Headwaters with a structured platform for students to turn research into scalable, market-ready solutions. Technologies like MiWaterNet aim to become commercially viable with Headwaters acting as a dedicated resource linking students, faculty, and partners to entrepreneurship training, commercialization pathways, and regional collaboration.
The Innovation
The water quality sensor collects real-time data surrounding temperature, flow rate, and conductivity.
Key Goals
Growing with Technology
Torin Miller became part of the research team at 15 years old through the Conservation CTE program with Brimley high school. He was part of the team that built and installed the first sensor deployed in the UP. After graduating from high school, Torin started working at The Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE) at Lake Superior State University, where he worked with school groups to construct, deploy, and troubleshoot the sensors. He has worked as a technician for the last four years with CFRE.
Through his role, Torin has gotten to see the real-world impact on his work, while continuing to support the education of future water resource students - encouraging involvement and introducing opportunities for business integration. Torin sees value in the sensors and is hoping to expand to a broader application for greater reach and impact.
He will be meeting with Headwaters partners to begin commercialization planning in October 2025.
