Did you know that “fusion energy,” which powers the sun, is rapidly transitioning from theoretical science to commercial reality? Since physicist Don Kerst at the University of Wisconsin–Madison launched the first fusion program in the early 1960s, the university has become one of the world’s largest and most respected academic programs. Today, over 28 faculty members work directly on fusion research, supported by an extended network of over 50 researchers across the campus. Over the years, the university has awarded more than 580 PhDs in fusion-related disciplines and operates at least six plasma-based reactors on campus.
On May 6, 2025, more than 175 participants—including scientists, graduate students, industry leaders, and policymakers—gathered at UW–Madison for the inaugural Great Lakes Fusion Energy Summit as part of Fusion Energy Week. This dynamic event, held in the Engineering Centers Building and organized by UW–Madison in partnership with the 5 Lakes Institute, celebrated the region’s deep roots in fusion research and its bold ambitions to become a global hub for clean energy innovation. The summit was a rallying point for stakeholders and forward-thinking supply chain companies eager to ensure that the Great Lakes region plays a central role in this transformation. Supported by decades of research leadership and fresh momentum from new ventures and legislative support, the summit expressed optimism for a bright future for fusion energy.
The morning began with welcome remarks from Vice Chancellor for Research Dorota Grejner-Brzezinska, College of Letters & Science Associate Dean Ruth Litovsky, and College of Engineering Dean Ian Robertson. All three spoke to the collaborative nature of UW’s approach, bringing together plasma physicists, engineers, materials scientists, and data experts in a truly interdisciplinary effort. During the address, Vice Chancellor Grejner-Brzezinska emphasized that fusion is not just a scientific milestone but rather an opportunity to generate economic benefits for Wisconsin and the Great Lakes region. For example, in addition to significant research funding that UW-Madison receives from the Department of Energy to UW–Madison, UW-affiliated startups like Realta Fusion and Type One Energy have attracted major federal and private support. Both companies are recipients of U.S. Department of Energy milestone grants, placing them among only eight fusion startups nationwide selected for this honor.
The rest of the day consisted of a poster session, guided tours, and a virtual presentation by Jean Paul Allain, Associate Director for Fusion Energy Sciences at the U.S. Department of Energy. A series of panel discussions and an evening mixer event at Findorff Construction’s headquarters were included to highlight the opportunities that fusion energy could bring the region. One panel discussion, which included executives from Paragon D&E, Strohwig Industries, and Weldall Manufacturing, explored fusion’s supply chain potential. The participants shared how Midwest manufacturers can position themselves as key suppliers of precision parts, components, and engineering services. The message was clear: companies involved early will benefit from the projected $840 billion fusion energy market by 2040.
Of significant note was the announcement of the launch of the Great Lakes FusionEnergy Alliance. Spearheaded by the 5 Lakes Institute, the alliance seeks to build a globally competitive fusion ecosystem by aligning the region’s research institutions, industries, and workforce. “This is about creating synergy,” said John Myer, a fellow at the Institute and senior counsel at Husch Blackwell. “We have the ingredients. Now we need the infrastructure to scale.”
The summit concluded with an evening mixer at Findorff Construction’s headquarters, where networking and collaboration continued. Greg Van Dyk, CEO of Altrusion and a retired U.S. Air Force Colonel, delivered a keynote Q&A highlighting how defense and energy companies can strategically pivot into fusion markets. His remarks underscored the role of fusion in energy, national security, and industrial competitiveness. Another evening highlight was the Emerging Energy Champion Awards presentation to Senator Julian Bradley and Representative David Steffen, who were instrumental in advancing legislative support for fusion in Wisconsin. Their recognition affirmed the critical role of state leadership in fostering an environment conducive to scientific innovation and economic growth.
As noted by Forbes, “Successful commercial development of fusion energy will be among history’s most profound changes.” The Great Lakes Fusion Energy Summit was a call to action. The energy and ideas generated at the summit proved that the Great Lakes region, a powerhouse in manufacturing and research, is well positioned to lead this transformation. With its unique blend of talent, infrastructure, and bipartisan political support, Wisconsin is poised to become not just a player but a leader in the fusion-powered future.
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