Michael Blackhurst

Blackhurst, an alumnus of Carnegie Mellon University, brings a unique perspective to the intersection of technology and social science. With a background in energy efficiency and empirical modeling, he has delved into interdisciplinary research, including the energy-water nexus and, more recently, ethics in engineering.

He is enthusiastic for teaching in the EST&P program, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of energy and climate studies. Blackhurst joined Carnegie Mellon University in 2023 as the Executive Director of the Open Energy Outlook Initiative in the Engineering and Public Policy department. In this role, he engaged in various activities, including fundraising, marketing, outreach, and research focused on the U.S. energy system.

Before joining Carnegie Mellon University, Blackhurst held academic positions at the University of Texas, Austin, and the University of Pittsburgh. His teaching portfolio encompasses a diverse range of courses, such as Environmental Life Cycle Assessment, Sustainability in Theory and Practice, Engineering Economics, US Energy Policy, and Programming in R for Data Analytics. Blackhurst's contributions to academia extend beyond teaching. He has been recognized as a member of the Data Science University Committee at the University of Pittsburgh and has participated in the Science Ambassadors Program supported by the National Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine. His commitment to sustainability has been honored on multiple occasions, including the University Sustainability Fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh. A strong advocate for influencing positive real-world decisions, Dr. Blackhurst serves as a board member for Fair Shake Environmental Legal Services and is actively involved in committees associated with the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority.