Bearb8 just inboxed me this which I think is relevant:

http://wnpr.org/post/utc-funds-10-million-engineering-institute-uconn

"The institute will be dedicated to research on systems engineering, which is the science of integrating different complex technologies that must work together in everything, from smartphones, to office buildings, to aircraft. Systems engineers focus on making whole products work together with an emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and cost reductions."

Sounds familiar...

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The solar connection might not be there but Bearb8's link about United Technologies could be. United Technologies is also a miltary defense contractor. From Wikipedia:

"UTC is also a large military contractor, producing missile systems and military helicopters, most notably the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter"