By Al Mamun, May 7, 2026, Marlboro, NJ-
For more than three decades, Dr. Mohammad Farooque has stood at the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and social impact—quietly shaping both the future of clean energy and the lives of hundreds of thousands of young learners across the globe.
Dr. Farooque’s journey began with a strong academic foundation. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, he pursued advanced studies at the University of Waterloo, where he completed both his Master’s and Ph.D.
Armed with deep technical expertise, he embarked on a 35-year career in the fuel cell industry—an emerging field that would later become central to global clean energy efforts. At FuelCell Energy Inc.,Dr. Farooque rose to the position of Senior Vice President and Discipline Fellow, leading groundbreaking work in the development of the ultra-clean Direct Fuel Cell (DFC) power plant. This innovation represented a major leap toward environmentally friendly energy solutions, significantly reducing emissions while improving efficiency.
Even after retiring in 2014, his expertise remained in demand. He continued contributing as a strategic consultant and later worked with ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Corporation on CO₂ capture and separation technologies—critical tools in combating climate change.
Dr. Farooque’s contributions have earned him global recognition. Early in his career, his innovative research in coal conversion attracted attention from major media outlets, including The Wall Street Journal.
His achievements were further honored with prestigious awards, including, The New Electrochemical Technology (NET) Award from the Electrochemical Society in 2009, The internationally acclaimed Fuel Cell Industry Career Award in 2014
A prolific innovator, he holds 56 U.S. patents, has published over 100 technical papers, and co-authored key chapters in leading fuel cell handbooks—cementing his role as a thought leader in the global energy sector.
While his scientific achievements are remarkable, Dr. Farooque’s impact extends far beyond laboratories and boardrooms. Driven by a commitment to social equity, he founded Computer Literacy Program Volunteers for the Underprivileged in 2004—a U.S.-based charitable organization dedicated to bridging the digital divide in Bangladesh.
Under his leadership, CLP has launched a series of innovative programs:
Computer Literacy Centers (CLC) to build foundational digital skills
Smart Classrooms (SCR) to modernize learning environments
Education through Entertainment (EE) blending learning with creativity
Connect Students Around the World (CSAW) fostering global collaboration
Expert Guided Learning (EGL) delivering world-class teaching remotely
Today, these initiatives benefit approximately 200,000 students each year, offering scalable, technology-driven education solutions that can be replicated globally.
During our interview, Dr. Farooque stated that CLP launched a unique vocational training initiative, Essential Office Skills (EOS), in 2024. The program is designed to equip young people with the practical skills necessary to secure employment and succeed in the workplace through effective and efficient performance.
Dr. Farooque is also deeply involved in grassroots development through the Bangladesh-based social enterprise SNT Trust. Serving 37 villages in Bagerhat, SNT integrates health, technology, and education to uplift underprivileged communities. His contributions have helped design and implement innovative services that directly improve quality of life in rural areas.
Residing in Marlboro, New Jersey, Dr. Mohammad Farooque exemplifies what it means to pair professional excellence with meaningful social contribution. From advancing clean energy technologies to empowering the next generation through education, his life’s work reflects a rare blend of scientific brilliance and humanitarian vision.
His story is not just one of success—but of purpose, persistence, and a lasting commitment to making the world a better, cleaner, and more equitable place.
