Florida State Turns New Athletics Deal Into Something Bigger

FSU's innovative collaboration with Danfoss paves the way for student-athletes to score benefits in STEM opportunities and athletics success.

Florida State is widening its relationship with Tallahassee-based engineering firm Danfoss, and this time the deal reaches into athletics.

The university announced a new three-year sponsorship agreement with FSU Athletics, building on Danfoss Climate Solutions’ existing five-year partnership with the FSU-FAMU College of Engineering. That earlier partnership established the Danfoss Research Fellowship Program and includes funding for scholarships and research opportunities for students and faculty.

The athletics side of the agreement is aimed at student-athletes with an interest in STEM careers. According to the release, the partnership will open the door to “potential pathways for STEM-focused internships, facility tours, and other activities that connect students with advanced manufacturing and sustainable technology.” Danfoss also plans to activate on Langford Green this season and inside the stadium with banners and graphics that highlight job opportunities.

“Danfoss has already demonstrated a meaningful commitment to Florida State University and the Tallahassee community, and we’re excited to expand that relationship into FSU Athletics,” Vice President and Director of Athletics Michael Alford said in a statement released today. “This partnership goes beyond traditional sponsorship by creating opportunities for our student-athletes to connect with a global industry leader and gain valuable exposure to careers in engineering, advanced manufacturing, and technology,” he added.

Danfoss Climate Solutions said the new sponsorship expands its investment in Tallahassee and creates additional ways to connect FSU student-athletes with STEM career paths. Rogerio Federici, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Tallahassee-based Danfoss Turbocor®, said the company sees the move as part of a bigger push to build ties with the university and the local community.

“We are excited to expand our relationship with Florida State University,” said Rogerio Federici, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Tallahassee-based Danfoss Turbocor®. “FSU is a nationally recognized university with one of the most well-known brands in collegiate sports. This expanded partnership allows us to support the next generation of engineers while deepening our connection to the Tallahassee community and strengthening relationships with employees, customers, and industry partners.”

Federici also said the company’s growth is being driven by global demand for its oil-free, magnetic-bearing compressors. The release said Turbocor technology offers a low-carbon, highly reliable cooling option for commercial air conditioning and heat pump applications, with uses in offices, hotels, hospitals, airports, and data centers that are working toward decarbonization and energy efficiency goals. Danfoss said building a strong talent pipeline through brand recognition and early career pathways is important to supporting that growth.

“This latest chapter in the relationship between Danfoss and FSU reflects our long-term commitment to innovation, workforce development, and the Tallahassee community,” said Federici. “By connecting student-athletes with real-world exposure to advanced manufacturing and sustainable technology, we can help open new career pathways while supporting the growth of our business and the industries we serve.”

The university said the partnership is designed to do more than simply put a logo in the building. For FSU, the pitch is straightforward: connect athletics with career development, and give student-athletes a chance to learn about engineering and technology while representing the Seminoles.

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