ECE Alumnus Returns Home as Successful Entrepreneur

June 30, 2010

Electrical and Computer Engineering alumnus and successful entrepreneur, Dr. Farrokh Shokooh, recently returned to Louisiana State University (LSU) where he hosted a seminar and reception for students, faculty, alumni and industry representatives. Currently president and CEO of Operation Technology, Inc. (OTI) in Irvine, California, Shokooh leads the development of Electrical Transient Analyzer Program (ETAP), the world's industry-leading electric power system analysis and design software.

"ETAP had its origins in LSU's electrical engineering power labs," stated Shokooh. "I found that what I learned as a graduate student at LSU helped me to develop a software more powerful than other similar software in the industry, and that led me to start OTI."

Statistics back up his claim. ETAP is recognized as the global market leader in providing solutions for power systems analysis, design, simulation, operation, control, optimization and automation. Presently, ninety-four percent of U.S. nuclear energy companies utilize ETAP for their facilities. In addition, the top 10 largest engineering consulting firms have standardized with ETAP.

Shokooh began his journey to success at LSU. At age 17, he moved from Tehran to Baton Rouge where he subsequently earned his bachelor's, master's, and Ph.D. degrees in electrical engineering. Originally majoring in both electrical and mechanical engineering, Shokooh found his niche in electrical engineering where he studied under the direction of his favorite professor, power systems expert Dr. Owen Tan. Following graduation, Shokooh spent a year teaching at LSU as an assistant professor before leaving to begin his career in the power industry.

"We are proud of the accomplishments of our graduates and especially pleased with our distinguished alumnus, Dr. Farrokh Shokooh, in particular. It has been a pleasure to welcome him back to LSU," said Dr. Jorge L. Aravena, chairman of the LSU Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

During his recent visit to the campus, Shokooh graciously donated 20 licenses of ETAP software to LSU for use as an essential learning tool for undergraduate and graduate students interested in a career in power engineering. "I had started my education and future in power systems at LSU and this visit has been a fulfilling homecoming for me," stated Shokooh.

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Article by Tammy V. Abshire, Associate Director of Development & Communications, LSU College of Engineering, ECE Department, 225-578-5478, tvabshire@lsu.edu