When Michael Ettlinger first found the Center for Entrepreneurship at the Michigan Engineering Embark event, he knew he’d found his people.
Michael, a graduate student at the University of Michigan studying Energy Systems Engineering & Environment and Sustainability, was no stranger to innovation and entrepreneurship.
“My career goals have always centered around entrepreneurship, so when I saw the CFE table, I was instantly drawn in,” Michael shares.
Since that pivotal day, Michael has dived deep: from completing the Perot Jain TechLab Climate Change program and the Graduate Certificate in Innovation & Entrepreneurship, to becoming a Fellow in the 2026 Entrepreneurial Leadership Program. He’s taken his passion off-campus, too, traveling on CFE treks to Detroit and Washington, D.C., and soon, Boston.
Problem Solver at Heart
Michael’s definition of the entrepreneurial mindset? “Viewing the world through the eyes of a determined problem solver seeking to create value for others and for society.” He’s constantly putting this mindset into action, not just in class but through real-world projects.
While at U-M, Michael helped climate and energy ventures develop their go-to-market strategies, including market research for Fervo Energy’s groundbreaking geothermal innovation, which was named one of TIME’s Best Green Energy Inventions of 2024.
But he didn’t stop there. Michael and his team at Michigan Carbon Capture’s Project SAPPHIRE engineered a game-changing device that won the global 2026 OpenAir Carbon Removal Challenge. Back home in South Florida, Michael launched a nonprofit focused on food waste donations. So far, thousands of meals have been delivered to people in need, while donors have gained tax benefits and the planet has gotten a break from greenhouse gas emissions.
Teamwork is the Secret Sauce
Michael says CFE has helped him zero in on the best part of entrepreneurship: teambuilding. Asking smart, curious people to join him, then building genuine friendships through the ups and downs. “Constantly revisiting the purpose that drives our collective action gives us motivation and fulfillment as key milestones are achieved,” he says. And yes, Michael loves to keep spirits high with a good laugh.
Building Community, Sparking Change
Looking ahead, Michael is excited to see his campus initiatives take off. He launched the Michigan Hydrogen Club and Climate Tech Unified this year, creating a space for students passionate about sustainability to connect, share opportunities, and make a real impact together. He’s also working on a marine conservation software platform, developed through the Zell Lurie Institute’s Product Innovation Program.
Advice for Future Entrepreneurs
Michael’s advice is simple: “Spend 10–15 minutes on the CFE website. It’s super organized and packed with ways to get involved that can boost your academic and career journey.” He also encourages exploring programs beyond engineering, like those at Ross’s Zell Lurie Institute, Sanger Leadership Center, and +Impact Studio.
On What’s Next
After graduation, Michael wants to keep serving communities and the planet, whether it’s through climate, water, energy, food, or marine ecosystem protection. He’s ready to launch a for-profit venture focused on biophilic design, creating healthy, sustainable spaces for people and the environment.
“When I look at the impact of these projects—on communities, the planet, my teammates, and myself—I sometimes wonder if I should tear up or get right back to work. Sometimes, it’s both.”
If you’re passionate about making a difference and ready to take your own entrepreneurial leap, check out the Center for Entrepreneurship. There’s a place for you, no matter your major or background.
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