Magna-Power Electronics Founder Dr. Ira J. Pitel Elected to National Academy of Engineering
Magna-Power Electronics, a global leader in high-power programmable DC power supplies and electronic loads, is proud to announce that its founder, Ira J. Pitel, Ph.D., has been elected to the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). The NAE, chartered by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863, elects a little over 100 new members annually. This selective process recognizes extraordinary contributions to engineering research and practice, making induction one of the field's most prestigious distinctions. The Academy cited Dr. Pitel specifically “for advancements in power electronics, integrating theoretical innovation with practical applications in commercial products.”
Dr. Pitel’s career is characterized by a focus on both academic research and industrial application. A Rutgers University Honor Graduate (B.S. '72), he went on to earn his M.S. from Bucknell University and his Ph.D. from Carnegie-Mellon University in 1978. His early career was marked by technical contributions at major corporations, including Bell Labs and GTE Sylvania, where he pioneered high-frequency ballasting techniques for energy-efficient lighting. These roles focused on solving complex magnetic and topology challenges in commercially viable ways.
In 1981, Dr. Pitel founded Magna-Power Electronics, initially as a contract R&D firm before pivoting to manufacturing in the late 1980s. Under his technical leadership, the company developed its signature current-fed power processing topology—a robust alternative to conventional voltage-fed designs—that has become the standard for high-reliability applications. This foundational technology has enabled the company to develop the industry's broadest range of programmable DC power supplies, providing solutions that scale to over 10 megawatts. Dr. Pitel holds over 29 patents and served as President of the IEEE Industry Applications Society in 1999. He is a Life Fellow of the IEEE and has earned numerous industry awards.
"I am deeply honored to be recognized by the National Academy of Engineering and to join such a distinguished group of colleagues," said Dr. Pitel. "This recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the engineering philosophy we have cultivated at Magna-Power. We have always believed that theoretical rigor and practical manufacturability are not opposing forces but necessary partners. Seeing our research translate into products that power particle accelerators, electric vehicle infrastructure, and power electronics innovations is the ultimate reward."
Dr. Pitel’s election places him among a group of peer-elected members nationwide who are pioneering new technologies and leading major advancements in their fields. The citation for his election highlights his success in "integrating theoretical innovation with practical applications," a standard exemplified by Magna-Power's vertically integrated manufacturing model. From its 73,500-square-foot facility in Flemington, New Jersey, the company controls every aspect of production, from magnetic winding to sheet metal fabrication, allowing for rapid prototyping and the delivery of highly specialized standardized power solutions to clients like NASA, CERN, and the U.S. Navy.
Dr. Pitel will be formally inducted during the NAE's annual meeting in Washington, D.C. this Fall. He continues to serve Magna-Power Electronics as an engineer and mentor, fostering the next generation of innovators in the field of power electronics.
About Magna-Power Electronics
Magna-Power Electronics is a leading manufacturer of high-quality programmable DC power supplies and electronic loads. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Magna-Power has been serving a diverse range of industries since 1981. The company's products are renowned for their reliability, precision, and cutting-edge technology, making them the trusted choice of engineers, researchers, and professionals worldwide. Visit magna-power.com to explore the complete product lineup and discover how Magna-Power Electronics can power your innovation.