Donald Fosnacht is the Associate Director of the Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota. He is also the Initiative Director for Energy Management. His academic training includes metallurgical engineering, mineral engineering, and applied chemistry. He has broad managerial experience obtained in leading a consulting firm (Steel Profitability Consulting) and as an executive at the former Inland Steel Company (now part of Arcelor Mittal). He is a seasoned technical manager with 40 years of experience in managing and directing research and technology development programs. He consults with various clients on business improvement specializing in yield and profitability enhancement and cost reduction. He teaches courses related to iron and steel manufacturing and the economics of steel production. His current focus is converting biomass into solid biofuels and value-added products and in assessing various energy storage methods. Past major studies include evaluation of the use of Pumped Hydro and Compressed Air energy storage at various mine sites in Minnesota and the development of an improved geothermal map for the state of Minnesota. Don has also participated on development of policies for renewable fuels and identification of key research topics for renewable energy through his participation on various state committees.