Congratulations to mechanical engineering seniors Emily Zaltzman and Maxwell Anklowitz for being named the 2025 winners of the TerraCycle Ernel Simpson Innovation Award. Their senior project, an environmentally safe and autonomous frost prevention system, addresses a critical challenge for local agriculture: protecting apple orchards from springtime frost damage while reducing environmental impact.
Designed with sustainability in mind, their system uses a renewable-powered, umbrella-like structure that automatically deploys during cold snaps in April and May. The canopy helps retain heat around the fruit buds by reflecting radiant heat back to the crops, reducing reliance on traditional fuel-burning methods that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
The team grounded their work in real-world application by collaborating with Pete Johnson of Johnson’s Locust Hall Farm in Jobstown, NJ. His orchard served as a reference site during the project’s development, providing valuable insights into the practical needs of farmers battling late spring frosts.
“It’s incredibly exciting to see our senior project teams making a tangible impact on the local economy,” said Dr. Andrea Welker, Dean of the School of Engineering. “In the Garden State, we must find real, sustainable solutions for our farmers to ensure a strong and healthy local food supply. Thanks to TerraCycle’s continued partnership with TCNJ Engineering, our students are empowered to pursue projects that directly serve our communities and the environment.”
Now in its sixth year, the TerraCycle Ernel Simpson Innovation Award recognizes student innovations that embody sustainability, creativity, and practical impact. The award honors Dr. Ernel Simpson, TerraCycle’s Vice President of Global Research & Development, renowned for his groundbreaking work in recycling challenging materials.
TerraCycle, headquartered in Trenton, NJ, continues its partnership with TCNJ Engineering to support the next generation of engineers and their efforts to build a cleaner, more sustainable future.
