Blake holds a PhD in Energy Science and Engineering from the University of Tennessee, with dissertation research conducted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. His research focused on innovative electrode processing methods for next-generation batteries, including water-processed cathodes, freeze-tape casting, and dual-layered electrode designs. Beyond these specific methods, Blake’s research experience encompassed analyzing the stability of cathode materials with polymer electrolytes, developing methods for recycling and upcycling spent cathode materials, and exploring silicon-graphite anode processing techniques.

Following his PhD, Blake transitioned to the industry, working for Sparkz, Inc., a startup dedicated to commercializing American-made, cobalt-free lithium-ion batteries. He began his tenure at Sparkz as a Test Engineer and later progressed to R&D Manager. In this role, Blake played a key role in establishing the company’s material validation and electrode development capabilities. His leadership included designing, sourcing, and installing the laboratory equipment, as well as spearheading the overall effort.

Blake holds a PhD in Energy Science and Engineering from the University of Tennessee, with dissertation research conducted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. His research focused on innovative electrode processing methods for next-generation batteries, including water-processed cathodes, freeze-tape casting, and dual-layered electrode designs. Beyond these specific methods, Blake’s research experience encompassed analyzing the stability of cathode materials with polymer electrolytes, developing methods for recycling and upcycling spent cathode materials, and exploring silicon-graphite anode processing techniques.

Following his PhD, Blake transitioned to the industry, working for Sparkz, Inc., a startup dedicated to commercializing American-made, cobalt-free lithium-ion batteries. He began his tenure at Sparkz as a Test Engineer and later progressed to R&D Manager. In this role, Blake played a key role in establishing the company’s material validation and electrode development capabilities. His leadership included designing, sourcing, and installing the laboratory equipment, as well as spearheading the overall effort.

Blake holds a PhD in Energy Science and Engineering from the University of Tennessee, with dissertation research conducted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. His research focused on innovative electrode processing methods for next-generation batteries, including water-processed cathodes, freeze-tape casting, and dual-layered electrode designs. Beyond these specific methods, Blake’s research experience encompassed analyzing the stability of cathode materials with polymer electrolytes, developing methods for recycling and upcycling spent cathode materials, and exploring silicon-graphite anode processing techniques.

Following his PhD, Blake transitioned to the industry, working for Sparkz, Inc., a startup dedicated to commercializing American-made, cobalt-free lithium-ion batteries. He began his tenure at Sparkz as a Test Engineer and later progressed to R&D Manager. In this role, Blake played a key role in establishing the company’s material validation and electrode development capabilities. His leadership included designing, sourcing, and installing the laboratory equipment, as well as spearheading the overall effort.