On 18 June 2026, at Walailak University, the EPC Team from the School of Engineering and Technology, Walailak University, received an Honorable Mention Award in the Research to Market (R2M) 2026 University-Level Competition. The competition provides students with an opportunity to transform knowledge, research findings, and innovations into business concepts while developing skills in market analysis, business planning, and presenting ideas that respond to real-world needs and commercial opportunities.
The EPC Team consisted of students from several engineering programs within the School of Engineering and Technology, including Ms. Thararat Suekhan from Petrochemical and Polymer Engineering, Mr. Nattawut Khamchu from Electrical Engineering, Ms. Nattaphat Buapan from Civil Engineering, and Ms. Punyisa Suksri from Civil Engineering. The team was advised by Associate Professor Dr. Suruek Khongthong, who provided guidance and support throughout the development of the project.
The innovation presented by the EPC Team focused on enhancing the value of wood through polymer impregnation technology. The project applies knowledge in engineering and materials science to improve the performance and value of wood materials, while creating opportunities for further development into products that can meet practical needs and potentially be commercialized in the future.
This achievement reflects the potential of Walailak University students to apply knowledge gained in the classroom to research and innovation. It also demonstrates the strength of interdisciplinary collaboration, as students from Petrochemical and Polymer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Civil Engineering combined their expertise and perspectives to strengthen the project and connect research outcomes with practical applications and business opportunities.
The Research to Market (R2M) competition is an important platform that encourages students to learn the process of transforming research and innovation into market-ready concepts. Participants gain experience in product concept development, feasibility analysis, customer needs assessment, business and marketing planning, as well as presenting their ideas to a judging panel. These experiences help students strengthen not only their academic knowledge but also their entrepreneurial thinking, communication skills, and teamwork abilities.
The Honorable Mention Award received by the EPC Team is therefore another proud achievement for the School of Engineering and Technology, Walailak University. It highlights the students’ ability to extend engineering knowledge toward the development of innovations with the potential for real-world application and commercial value.
The School of Engineering and Technology, Walailak University, congratulates the EPC Team and their advisor on this achievement and wishes them continued success in further developing their work and creating innovations that contribute to the economy and society.
