Three distinguished alumni honored into Alumni Academy
CEM’s highest honor bestowed upon alumni to three inductees at annual Alumni Academy Ceremony
University of North Dakota College of Engineering & Mines proudly welcomed three esteemed alumni into its Alumni Academy Hall of Fame during the annual induction ceremony on September 27, 2024, at the Henry Family Ballroom in UND Memorial Union. This honor, the highest distinction awarded by the college, celebrates alumni who have achieved remarkable success in their fields, inspiring future generations of engineers. This year’s honorees—Craig Kipp, John Larsen, and Roger Borg—have built impactful careers that span diverse engineering disciplines and demonstrate commitment to innovation and service.
Roger Borg (Civil Engineering ‘63)
Born in Lunds Valley, North Dakota, Roger Borg graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering from UND in 1963 and went on to earn a master’s degree from Iowa State University. Borg dedicated his career to America’s transportation infrastructure, playing a pivotal role in developing the Interstate Highway System—46,876 miles of highways that transformed U.S. transportation and commerce. His groundbreaking master’s thesis introduced an algorithm that helped shape interstate traffic forecasting, marking him as a thought leader in early interstate planning.
Borg’s practical experience began in North Dakota, where he worked summer jobs in road construction, finding his calling in civil engineering. His career culminated with his leadership in the Senior Executive Service, where he oversaw the restructuring of the Federal Highway Administration’s largest field office in California. Although unable to attend the ceremony, Borg’s legacy was represented by his son, Brad. Borg’s enduring contributions remind us of the vital role engineers play in building and modernizing infrastructure on a national scale.
Craig Kipp (Mechanical Engineering ’78, ‘81)
Hailing from Edgeley, North Dakota, Craig Kipp is a graduate of UND’s mechanical engineering program, where he earned both his bachelor’s (1978) and master’s degrees (1981) before completing an MBA at the University of Chicago in 1983. Launching his career with EAPC in Grand Forks, Kipp later took on global roles with GE, expanding the company’s operations and notably establishing GE Energy’s first business presence in Budapest. Among his many achievements, he spearheaded the construction of China’s first wind turbine factory and took Boart Longyear public on the Australian Stock Exchange as its CEO.
Kipp attributes his choice of mechanical engineering to his father’s advice on the career security that an engineering degree offers. He fondly remembers Dean Don Naismith’s mentorship and the deep friendship he formed with fellow student Dave Zeus, a talented engineer in his own right. Kipp’s career exemplifies the impact of innovative engineering leadership, while his adventurous spirit led him to complete a 21-peak bike journey across the Pyrenees—a testament to his perseverance both professionally and personally.
John Larsen (Electrical Engineering’ 87)
Originally from Chisholm, Minnesota, John Larsen earned his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from UND in 1987. His nearly 40-year career at Alliant Energy Corporation has been marked by strategic leadership, and he was appointed President and COO in 2019 before taking on the role of Chair, President, and CEO. Under Larsen’s guidance, Alliant Energy has developed new products and services to meet evolving customer needs and bring sustainable energy solutions to the communities it serves.
A dedicated hockey fan, Larsen was drawn to UND not only for its engineering program but also for the opportunity to be part of a college hockey culture. The rigorous courses of Professor Ron Moe challenged Larsen and shaped his problem-solving abilities, building the foundation for a successful career in the energy sector. Larsen and his wife, Theresa, are proud parents of three children, all pursuing careers in health, business, and nursing.
A Lasting Legacy
The Alumni Academy Hall of Fame recognizes graduates whose careers have significantly contributed to their industries and communities. Their stories, preserved on plaques displayed in the Upson II Building, provide a source of motivation for current UND students by highlighting the achievements of those who once walked the same campus halls. In addition to celebrating individual achievements, the annual ceremony offers students, staff, and family members a chance to come together and honor alumni.
Written by Paige Prekker // UND College of Engineering & Mines
