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| Magazine Stories • Issue 5, Spring/Summer 2007 |
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| Stories by title *=New story for this issue NP=Nonprofit Story P=Partner |
 Who’s Who in
Huntsville Technology is recognized by the JIAMD Summit 2006 for its
Sponsorship. Individuals in the picture from left to right are: Admiral
Edmund Giambastiani, Jr., Dave Knowles, Director of Sales & Marketing,
Who’s Who in Huntsville Technology Magazine, and LTG Larry J. Dodgen.
COVER STORY: ADEPT Technologies*
ADEPT Technologies is making a point of precision through the manufacturing of components for aerospace, military, and communication applications. With many years of expertise in the business, co-owners Chad and Brad Fielder, identical twins and Huntsville natives, continue to expand their solid business foundation by producing the finest, most precise products available. ADEPT is a SDB 8(a) Native American Owned company that has a strong history of meeting customer expectations for high-quality products and on-time delivery at a competitive price. The company is a complete precision manufacturing facility that focuses on machining, welding, assembly, and fabrication for the military/defense, aerospace, aircraft, transportation, and commercial industries. "We use high-speed machining," Chad states. "When time matters, ADEPT offers a short answer to fast-turnarounds." Additionally, it is the Quality Policy of ADEPT to ensure customer satisfaction by producing and continually improving safe, reliable products that meet or exceed customer and regulatory requirements. This goal is achieved and recognized by ADEPT’s certification as an ISO 9001:2000, AS9100:2004 Rev. B registered company. ADEPT is also DOT DBE Certified. Within its manufacturing facilities, ADEPT uses extensive documentation and tracking and also employs a certified AS9100B Lead Auditor. With more than 150 years of combined experience, the professional and dedicated team at ADEPT knows how to put quality and speed into one complete package. ADEPT possesses a wide range of manufacturing capabilities and the company’s fabrication range is from high volume to high impact. Its combination of cutting-edge tools and a traditional commitment to excellence has allowed ADEPT over the years to expand its work in precision manufacturing. Some of its many services include high-speed machining (both production and prototype); welding (with highly experienced welders, both manual and robotic); assembly; molding (with the capabilities to build both rapid prototyping molds as well as full-scale production molds); fabrication (utilizing all types of materials); precision sheet metal; and recently added metal finishing. ADEPT, in its continuing commitment to meet exacting time and quality requirements, has established a full-scale metal finishing facility that includes alodine, anodize, painting, and powder-coating processes to both military and commercial specifications. ADEPT’s brand new, open-face, multi-stage paint booth with racking system has expansive capacities and is under the direction of an experienced professional with extensive knowledge in metal finishing. As a result of the company’s personal and corporate commitment to precision, quality and excellence, coupled with its dedication to customer service and satisfaction, ADEPT has grown exponentially in the world of stringent government and military contracts. "Our continuous investment in systems, machinery, and personnel ensures quality from design concept through production of the finished product," Brad says. "And the customer’s specifications are met with exacting precision every step of the way." Chad adds, "On every contract, no matter the size or volume, we provide personalized service to ensure that the customer’s needs are met. Our long-established relationship with our suppliers assists us in acquiring hard-to-find hardware. By working closely in a professional relationship with our customers, ADEPT is often able to solve problems, reduce costs and cut production times." This emphasis on relationship building has aided ADEPT in developing strong professional relationships with a wide range of fellow government contractors, specifically on Redstone Arsenal. And, this spring, ADEPT joined the AMCOM Express team through Westar Aerospace and Defense Group. Chad comments, "We are honored to have been selected by Westar to be part of their team." Some of ADEPT’s fabrication capabilities include producing precision-critical turbine blades, brackets for the Humvee, electronic chassis for the Black Hawk helicopter, and ammunition cans for the Apache and Black Hawk helicopters. "We are pleased with the expansion of ADEPT Technologies in the past few years and we are very excited about the overall growth and opportunities of the technology industry in our community," Brad states. To continue its support for the government and military industry this year, ADEPT will be participating in a variety of exhibitions, such as the national Army Aviation Association of America Convention in Atlanta in May, and the Space Missile Defense Conference & Exhibition in Huntsville in August. "ADEPT Technologies is a local, growing company that is established, stable, and professional," Chad explains. "We have a long-standing history in this area and excellent relationships with many local and national customers. We are committed to the continued development of a state-of-the-art precision manufacturing facility and we have recently purchased property for future expansion of our campus. In fact, a new 100,000 square foot innovative manufacturing facility is in the development and design stages, and is scheduled for ground-breaking in late 2007. Our corporate physical expansion, driven by increased bid submissions and intensive contract negotiations, shows that ADEPT is serious about its growth. We are exhibiting world-class skills coupled with a corporate commitment to quality and precision…and that is very powerful! This is an exciting time at ADEPT Technologies." For cutting-edge precision manufacturing, contact ADEPT Technologies by phone at (256) 851-2932, by e-mail at office@adept-technologies.com, or visit the web site at www.adept-technologies.com. The company is located at 141 Nick Fitcheard Road in Huntsville. Aerospace Integration Corporation*
AIC is building the facility of the future, bringing the next level of customized capability to the aviation industry. The new Aircraft Completion Center (ACC) will be located in Albertville, Alabama at the Albertville Regional Airport, approximately 45 miles southeast of Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, and will become fully operational in February 2008. In a major step forward for the aviation industry, the ACC will propel aircraft services forward by offering new levels of significantly increased resources for the military and civil aviation markets. AIC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of MTC Technologies, Inc. of Dayton, Ohio, is headquartered in Mary Esther, Florida, and maintains permanent operations in Crestview, Florida, Warner Robins, Georgia, and Huntsville/Madison, Alabama. AIC recently hosted a formal groundbreaking celebration on the ACC construction site at the Albertville Regional Airport. Honored guests included Governor Bob Riley, Alabama Senator Hinton Mitchem, Alabama Representative Frank McDaniel, and senior leadership from MTC Technologies. Attending the festivities were representatives of local government, local and regional media, and hundreds of interested citizens from the surrounding communities. "This event has special meaning," said Governor Riley. "This project is going to save lives and make a difference between winning and losing [the War on Terrorism]. If ever we made the right choice, this was it, by combining [efforts of] city, county, and state. This one’s special. We will make it successful," he continued. AIC President and CEO George Gonzalez added, "This is a very exciting day for our company and for the hundreds of employees who will be a part of this very important community project. We are looking forward to the day when we are fully operational so this facility can play a critical role in supporting America’s Warfighters on the front lines of the War on Terror." The significant advantage of the ACC will be its ability to take a "green" or even unassembled aircraft and transform it into a fully missionized, fully tested, and fully integrated product that meets all end-user specifications. While designed primarily for helicopter support, the facility will also be able to accommodate medium sized fixed-wing aircraft. The operational capabilities of this new facility include:
The physical specifications of the ACC include:
2,000 FT 15,000 FT 15,000 FT 16,000 FT 15,000 FT Also at the Albertville Airport, AIC operates two 8,000 square foot hangar facilities, which were completely renovated and refurbished in 2006, and are presently being used to perform systems integration on Army, Air Force, and Navy helicopters. The specifications of the existing facilities include:
As a basis for estimating total capacity, the new ACC will house up to approximately 17 H-60 aircraft in various stages of assembly, modification and completion. AIC’s existing facilities can house up to eight additional similar sized aircraft. For additional information about AIC, please visit www.aicworld.com. For information about MTC Technologies, please visit www.mtctechnologies.com. Corr Wireless* Story by Ivor Fredrickson
Corr Wireless is a locally owned and operated provider of wireless communication services dedicated to meeting the needs of its clients. Corr Wireless’ goal is simple: To be the consumers’ first choice. To achieve its goal, the company offers a wide variety of feature-rich wireless handsets and flexible service plans using a high-quality GSM network that is supported by a local corporate infrastructure. The GSM network covers the 11 contiguous counties comprising north Alabama, including Madison, Limestone, Morgan, and Marshall counties. Ownership and operation of this network allows Corr Wireless to offer residents of these counties unique service plans. Outside of the owned and operated service area, Corr Wireless provides service to its customers via roaming partners, such as AT&T. The advantage Corr Wireless has by owning its local network is passed down to its customers. The primary benefit is the ability to create service plans that offer tremendous advantages to residents of these communities. For example, the Endless Minutes plan offers UNLIMITED calling, text messaging, and voicemail for one low, monthly rate. For customers who do not wish to make a multi-year commitment, the company has developed the Corr as U go prepaid offering. This service can be purchased in increments as low as $20, and is charged on a per day basis, which sets Corr apart from competitors who charge by the minute for prepaid service. Corr as U go offers pay-by-the-month UNLIMITED calling service, text messaging, and voicemail services. Corr Wireless also sets itself apart from its competitors with its personal customer service. Customers of Corr Wireless are served by a person in the community who is able to understand their needs and address them quickly and efficiently. The network engineers know the communities and are dedicated to constantly improving the network. When Corr Wireless discusses service improvements, it talks in terms of neighborhoods, schools, and businesses. The residents of north Alabama are Corr’s only customers and its #1 priority. Corr Wireless has 14 retail locations in Madison, Limestone, Marshall, and Morgan counties to serve customers. For further information, please visit the web site at www.corrwireless.com. B.G. Smith & Associates*
B.G. Smith & Associates, Inc. is a leading systems, solutions, and technical company that continues to grow by expanding services and staff to provide solutions for mission-critical needs. A woman-owned company, B.G. Smith & Associates was established in 1992 in Huntsville and offers innovative applications of technology and more than a decade of expertise to many Department of Defense (DoD) and non-DoD agencies. During the last year, B.G. Smith & Associates has experienced growth in its NASA operations, which led to Dr. Ann F. Whitaker joining their team of professionals. Dr. Whitaker, a retired NASA SES employee, brings with her a wealth of knowledge and insight into the Agency’s past and its vision for the future. She began her career at NASA in 1963 and retired from the agency in 2005. During her commission, she held many key positions, and in 1995, Dr. Whitaker was selected for the Senior Executive Service (SES). Her SES appointments included: Deputy Director of Space Sciences Laboratory and Director of the Materials, Processes and Manufacturing Department. In 2001 she accepted her final assignment as the Director of the Marshall Space Flight Center Science Directorate. Throughout her career at NASA she received numerous awards and authored/co-authored many publications. "We are honored to have Dr. Whitaker on our team," Chief Executive Officer Bill Smith states. "She brings unique scientific and engineering expertise to our company and is a welcomed addition. Our goal to be the best at what we do is only reinforced with her as a part or our company." B.G. Smith & Associates pledges to provide distinctive quality and unparalleled customer service. For more information, contact the company at (256) 890-8544, information@bgsmith.com, or visit www.bgsmith.com. Lockheed Martin*
Performing Noble Work for Our Country From its beginning in 1963 in Huntsville with just 12 employees, Lockheed Martin has been performing noble work for our country. Now, with more than 896 employees in seven different facilities in Huntsville, Lockheed Martin is proud to support the military in defending our homeland and soldiers abroad. In 2003, the Targets and Countermeasures (TC) and Medium Extended Air Defense System (MEADS) contracts were awarded to Lockheed Martin. The husband and wife team of Louis and Suzan Connor, both program directors, head up the efforts of these programs with Louis in charge of the TC work in Huntsville, and Suzan managing MEADS. "He builds targets and I build systems to shoot them down," Suzan says. Louis and Suzan’s connection goes back to 1994 when Louis hired Suzan to run the ground support software program for the Payload Launch Vehicle program. After Louis left Lockheed in 1998, they sort of lost touch. While Louis was working support contracts with Lockheed Martin, he reconnected with Suzan via e-mail—similar to the "You’ve Got Mail" movie—one thing led to another, and they were married in September of 2003. "It was the right time, the right place, and the right person," she states. Right after they got married, Louis came back to Lockheed as the Deputy Program Director in Washington, D.C. and they moved to Fairfax, Virginia in July 2004. In January 2006, Suzan was presented an opportunity to come back "home" and run the MEADS BMC3 IPT while Louis stayed in Washington, D.C. Lockheed Martin took pity on them and asked Louis to move back to Huntsville and continue as the Deputy Program Director for TC. "Huntsville is our home and we love it here," Louis says. "We have a lot of well-educated and patriotic people in our community and we achieve a high sense of accomplishment and contribution to our nation by performing in the jobs that we have". The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) selected Lockheed Martin for the prime contract of TC. The company manages the overall missile defense targets and countermeasures to ensure these target systems will enable the United States to realistically, reliably, and affordably test the full range of ballistic missile defense systems (BMDS) under development, as well as defend against the evolving threats the nation faces. "We are designing targets that emulate missile threats to our troops and allies," Louis states. "We have a moral obligation to do the best job we can so our troops and allies have the ability to defend us and themselves. We all want our children and grandchildren to have a secure future." In Huntsville, the TC program has around 100 employees and will increase its workforce to 225 by the year 2008. MEADS is an international project with Italy and Germany that develops weapons systems with funding from each government. MEADS is replacing the Patriot and Hawk systems with new hardware and software technology. The system can command a fleet of distributed missile launchers while simultaneously detecting and tracking hostile forces and targets, as well as being interoperable with allied air defenses. MEADS is expected to enter service in 2014 and currently has a workforce of 175 people in Huntsville with personnel expansion to 250 this year. In addition, Lockheed Martin supports Hellfire, Longbow, Javelin, Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System (THAAD), Patriot Advanced Capabilities Missile (PAC3), Payload Launch Vehicle, Multiple Kill Vehicle, Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), Advanced Tactical Army Missile System, Compact Kinetic Energy Missile, High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), and NASA’s shuttle external tank. "At Lockheed Martin we’re performing noble work for our country," Louis says. "It’s very fulfilling to contribute to the securing of our nation’s future." For more information, contact Lynn Fisher at (408) 742-7606 or lynn.m.fisher@lmco.com. System Studies & Simulation, Inc.*.
Superior Technical Expertise System Studies & Simulation, Inc. (S3) was incorporated in the state of Alabama in 1993 by its President/CEO, Jan Smith, to provide technical services to the U.S. Army and NASA. The company established a customer base inclusive of aviation, missile, and space program support, while establishing operations at an average of two new sites each year. S3’s ability to recruit and retain senior managers and qualified staff personnel who are subject matter experts and leaders in their field, supported the expansion. S3 technical personnel are co-located with the government at 30 sites, operating in 13 states, Iraq, and Germany. In Madison County, S3 continues support to the Army and Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) and is a valuable member of the community. A significant milestone for the company was the 2001 move into the corporate facility at 615 Discovery Drive, Corporate Research Park West. Since that time, S3 has continued to expand at an annual rate of 20% to the current level of 350 employees. S3’s business units include Research and Development (R&D), Strategic Planning and Transformation, PEO Acquisition Support, IT, Logistics Operations, and Training. R&D customers include MSFC, Missile Defense Agency, Space & Missile Defense Command, Aviation & Missile Research, and Development & Engineering Center. Strategic Planning includes operations in the Pentagon, National Guard Bureau, U.S. Army Training & Doctrine Command, Joint Forces Command, and Ft. Leavenworth. Acquisition customers include Program Executive Offices for Missiles & Space, Aviation, C3I, Intelligence, Electronic Warfare & Sensors, Ground Combat Systems and Logistics Support Activity. Training includes Eastern Army National Guard Aviation Training Site, Western Army National Guard Aviation Training Site, Fixed Wing Army National Guard Aviation Training Site, 21st Cavalry, Ft. Campbell, Ft. Stewart, III Corps, and Standard Army Maintenance System-Enhanced. Logistics Operations is the company’s newest business unit. S3 rapidly established itself as an effective logistics support provider with selection as a prime contractor for FORSCOM’s Field and Installation Readiness Support Team Contract. IT is a key element to the automation success provided to each of the business units. S3 is a unique company in many ways. An example of the company’s unique flexibility and "out-of-the-box" thinking is the success story of their commercial aviation business, which operates a fleet of five helicopters. S3 protects the habitat of endangered species, provides MEDEVAC services, and conducts aerial firefighting support for the Army through safe, cost-effective aviation operations. S3 is positioned to benefit from BRAC relocations. In preparation, the company re-organized into six business units, obtained ISO/AS9100 certification (November, 2006), and focused its Business Development Team to pursue additional IDIQ contract awards. Currently, S3 operates 15 IDIQ contract vehicles and five GSA schedules, which support Army and NASA customers. S3 has proven expertise, diversity, a close working relationship with customers, and a highly qualified, experienced, professional work force that provides the company with a solid foundation on which to continue its remarkable success into the future. For more information, contact System Studies & Simulation, Inc. at (256) 539-1700 or visit www.s3inc.com. WestWind Technologies, Inc.*
WestWind Technologies, Inc. (WTI) is a locally owned engineering and manufacturing firm that provides innovative, fast-response solutions to military equipment requirements. President Dan Petrosky has first-hand experience with the importance of good products that perform as promised and are delivered on time. He retired from Army Aviation as a Lieutenant General after serving for 37 years. Petrosky says, "After retiring from active duty, I wanted to continue supporting our warfighters. What I like most about WestWind is the rapid response, and ability to efficiently build items urgently needed in combat zones. Our sole purpose is to support our nation’s warfighters. We pride ourselves on levels of quality and performance that are above and beyond the norm—nothing less than what our warfighters deserve." WTI employs more than 350 staff members, including over 100 degreed professionals in engineering, logistics, business, and other professional disciplines. General Petrosky explains, "Our services include engineering, manufacturing, integration, modification, and maintenance and support. Capabilities encompass an equally broad range: design engineering, technical publications, and complete kit manufacturing, including integration and installation. Modifications WTI installs on aircraft include missile warning systems, crashworthy external fuel systems, search and rescue gear, and high speed personnel insertion/extraction systems." WestWind’s primary customer is the Program Executive Officer for Army Aviation, and WTI is the prime contractor for the Army Aviation’s Logistic Support Facility located on Redstone Arsenal. But WTI’s business impact extends far beyond Huntsville. "We are a positive force throughout the Tennessee Valley," General Petrosky comments. "In 2006, WTI contributed approximately $29 million to the economy of Northern Alabama and Southern Tennessee through the purchase of raw materials, subcontracts, and other direct costs." WTI is now preparing for its next big project of building flight simulators for the CH-47F Chinook helicopter. The CH-47F is a new generation helicopter for the Army and it will provide crews with more efficient mission performance and enhanced communications for greater situational awareness. "The construction of this simulator is something new for WestWind," Program Manager Lori Marks states. "These simulators will allow our troops to train safely and effectively at far less cost than other training approaches." Petrosky adds, "The construction of the CH-47F flight simulator is a very important new endeavor for Madison County. It may even be the first helicopter flight simulator ever built here. This award, a distinct honor and a measure of the Army’s confidence in WestWind personnel and our capabilities, is yet another opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment to responsiveness, quality, performance, and cost-savings." WTI is ISO 9001-2000 Registered, AS9100B Registered, and is a FAA Part 145 Repair Station. For solutions that go above and beyond, contact WestWind Technologies, Inc. at 2901 Wall Triana Highway Suite 200, Huntsville by phone at (256) 319-0137, or online at www.westwindcorp.com. Business Resource Solutions*
North Alabama’s Premier Firm for Corporate Business Management Services to Government Contractors Many of North Alabama’s start-up companies and existing small-to-medium-size businesses are searching for an additional edge to stay lean and competitive in today’s marketplace. Business Resource Solutions, LLC (BRS), specializes in providing critical business management services to provide that edge. The company focuses on providing clients with day-to-day human resources, accounting, and contract administration services. "BRS is the business solution for an individual interested in starting a company, or a small company in an expansion phase," President Sharon Yalowitz says. "We handle the business side of operations, so the client company can focus on performance and growth. This means a company can have full operational support in everything from human resources, accounting, to contract administration, without the financial burden of a full team of in-house business management employees." BRS started in August 2005 in Huntsville and currently supports clients across the U.S., including companies such as SpecPro, Vista International, Glacier Technologies, SES, STS, and Eagle Applied Sciences. BRS is the business management services arm for these government contracting firms. The BRS client base includes over 700 employees and revenues of $70 million. In addition, the BRS staff of professionals provides "on call" support services for other businesses nationwide that perform prime contracts and subcontracts for the federal government. "We have experience working with start-up, 8(a), small disadvantaged, and small-to-medium-size companies," Sharon states. "We’re now expanding our North Alabama client base and supporting new and existing businesses in the local community." The small business services that BRS offers include web-based electronic time collection, accounts payable, accounts receivable, human resources, and bank management. The company also provides these services to medium-size businesses, as well as monthly reporting requirements (such as P & L and customized reports management), affirmative action/EEOC reports, job cost reports, and customized business options. Additional services include the management and oversight of a client’s software programs and business procedures as they transition to more powerful and dynamic systems available through BRS. "The value of our services resides in our ability to offer single and multiple administrative functions," adds Yalowitz. "A business gains the greatest benefit when using the full range and depth of BRS services. Utilizing BRS as a fully integrated partner, a business owner immediately gains access to an entire team of professionals that provides support in contract administration, accounting and compliance, and human resources without incurring extensive overhead." As the premier firm for delivering business management services to the community, the BRS mission is to provide cost-competitive services in a timely and accurate manner. "Our aim is to do a great job with on-time, accurate, and superior support for our clients," Yalowitz states. Business Resource Solutions is located at 4815 Bradford Drive, Suite 201, Huntsville, AL, 35805. For more information on its services, contact the company at (256) 726-4763, fax at (256) 726-4770, and online at www.brs-llc.com. Knology*
In the Huntsville and surrounding business communities, Knology is at the forefront of evolving business communications solutions with its advanced fiber optic network. "Knology has evolved into more than the trusted provider of residential phone, Internet and cable," Business Sales Manager Stan Hodges states. While offerings include traditional bundled services for the smaller agile business owner, Knology has also designed advanced services to meet the more complex voice and data needs of larger businesses. Over the last three years, Knology has expanded its core fiber optic network into Cummings Research Park and throughout Madison County. Hodges says, "Huntsville is now a fiber rich environment. Businesses of all sizes benefit from our services." Knology, headquartered in West Point, GA, is a publicly traded company that currently provides service to eight Southeastern markets: Huntsville, Montgomery, AL; Knoxville, TN; Charleston, SC; Augusta, Columbus, West Point, GA; and Panama City, Pinellas County, FL. Knology has recently entered into a definitive agreement to acquire PrairieWave Communications, a South Dakota based company. The transaction is expected to close in second quarter 2007, subject to the satisfaction of closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals with respect to the municipal franchises. "Fiber allows clients more flexibility and unlimited opportunities in voice, data, and video communications," Hodges comments. With bandwidth services delivered over a fiber optic network, Knology can increase bandwidth with just a phone call. In the area of telecommunications, Knology offers IP Centrex Services using Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP). "With IP Centrex, there is no phone system to purchase—just a handset," he adds. "We provide the services via fiber securely connected to our servers. This allows Knology to offer features that a business could not normally afford." Another direct fiber optic network solution is Passive Optical Network (PON), which enables businesses to serve their clients more effectively and efficiently. PON delivers enough bandwidth and speed to handle a business’s local and long-distance services, high-speed Internet, e-mail, and data speeds at up to 100Mbps on a single network. "PON technology enables small and large businesses to add speed and capacity on demand," Hodges explains. Another solution Knology offers is Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN), which is ideal for businesses with multiple offices because it allows them to exchange information privately and securely over Knology’s fiber network. Unlike other companies that provide service by leasing and sharing equipment, Knology is a facilities-based provider that has built its own network. Knology’s network is scalable and future proof, allowing for increased capacity to meet consumer demands and allowing for the introduction of new communications services. Knology is also well known for outstanding customer service. Professional, well-trained, customer-oriented sales representatives work directly and responsively with each client. A client in the Huntsville market, when asked if there was one thing that the Knology representative could have done to better serve them replied, "I can’t imagine how she could have been more helpful. I’m always amazed at Knology’s customer service and tell folks how pleased I am." Additionally, each locally based facility offers responsive customer service through a team of experienced personnel that monitor, manage, and maintain the integrity of the fiber optic network. And, finally, the company offers clients one point of contact and one convenient monthly bill for all their voice, video and data needs. "Knology offers exceptional customer service," Stan states. "We are customer focused." For evolving business communications solutions, contact Knology at (256) 489-8920 or visit www.knology.com. Cornerstone Supply*Moving Industry Forward
Since 1996, Cornerstone Supply has been providing quality biotech and industrial lab supplies, as well as material handling supplies to support a warehouse environment. Along with these services, Cornerstone Supply is proud to be expanding its services to the aerospace and military hardware/fasteners industry with parts for tanks, helicopters and aircraft. To do so, Cornerstone Supply recently completed its ISO certification, #QEC16050, which makes the company stand out in the industry. "It is important for our clients to know that we have a quality program and follow quality processes from beginning to end to ensure products are ordered correctly and meet all specifications," co-owner Bonnie Powers states. As part of its focus, Cornerstone Supply provides multiple product lines for companies on a single invoice, a service popular among customers. "We streamline the procurement process by offering multiple product lines on one purchase order," co-owner Mike Powers explains. With its expansion, Cornerstone Supply has also increased its workforce and continues its focus on developing relationships with its clients. Some of the many clients the company serves are Redstone Arsenal, the Marshall Space Flight Center, and manufacturers throughout the United States and in Europe. "We are growing along with the Huntsville-Madison County area," Bonnie says. Cornerstone Supply is accredited by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council as a woman-owned business and is a member of the Better Business Bureau and the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce. For more information, contact Cornerstone Supply at (256) 461-4147, by fax at (256) 461-4048, by e-mail at bonnie@cornerstone-suppply.com, or online at www.cornerstone-supply.com. Clark Associates*
Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Huntsville, Clark Associates puts customers first with its wide-format automation equipment from Xerox Wide Format Systems. The company was appointed as one of the original dealers of Xerox wide format equipment and supplies in 1986. The equipment offered includes black-and-white and color digital systems and engineering copiers, plotters and scanners, as well as plotting supplies including paper, vellum, film and toner. Clark Associates also offers used and refurbished machines that are available for lease or rent, as well as the new Xerox equipment that can be purchased or leased. "Clark Associates meets the needs of people who require a reprographic shop on site," Founder and Senior Associate Warren Clark says. "Our customers can have their own wide format (large document) management systems, with the capability of making prints in sizes up to 42 inches wide (or more) by any manageable length." Also available and supported are a variety of software packages to meet the needs of customers. The company focuses on providing customers with top-quality products, delivery, setup and on-site training on equipment for small and large businesses. It has a complete service department and offers clients preventive maintenance programs on all new and used equipment, as well as top-notch telephone and tech support. Clark Associates services the printed circuit board industry as well as silkscreen shops in the area and around the country, producing artwork masters with quick-turn laser photoplotting (4000 dpi). As an Autocad compatible service bureau, the company also offers large format document scanning to tif G4, as well as PDF file formats and archiving to CD. Clark Associates is located at 803 Oster Drive in Huntsville, and is a woman-owned company that services Alabama, N.W. Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee. For a business that has been putting customers first for over 40 years, contact Clark Associates by phone at (256) 536-6366, toll free (800) 633-2084, fax (256)539-0790, or on the web at www.clarkgraphics.com. Joint Integrated Air & Missile Defense (JIAMD) Summit 2007* (NP)
The annual JIAMD Summits establish continuing forums to aid in achieving improved Government and industry communication by obtaining innovative industrial inputs necessary to attain a more joint and integrated Air and Missile Defense Family of Systems (FoS). At each of the Summits, experts from Government, industry, military, and academia will work together to resolve significant issues and improve overall participation in the present and proposed JIAMD architecture and FoS implementation plan. In reflection of this spirit of cooperation, the motto of the Annual JIAMD Summit is "One System...One Team...One Fight...One Future". The Summits are supported by US Strategic Command (STRATCOM); the Director, Defense Systems, OUSD (AT&L); the Joint Forces Command (JFCOM); the Joint Functional Component Command for Integrated Missile Defense (JFCC-IMD); the Deputy Director, Force Protection (JCS J8); and the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). The subject matter to be discussed during JIAMD Summit 2007 will include significant classified issues relating to gaps in our present JIAMD system capabilities that threaten the security of our Homeland and our deployed forces overseas. Therefore, attendance at the Summit is "By Invitation Only" and the conference will be classified SECRET. All of those attending must have at least a Secret Clearance. An unclassified luncheon will be held at the Von Braun Center on Wednesday 07 March 2007. It will be "Open to the Public" and the Honorable Gordon England, Deputy Secretary of Defense, has been invited to be the Luncheon Speaker. All other Summit events will be held in secure facilities on Redstone Arsenal, America’s Joint Center of Excellence for Rockets and Missiles. The theme for the Second Annual JIAMD Summit is "Addressing the Issues - Uniting the Team." In recognition of the Warfighters’ critical role in the JIAMD mission, General James (Hoss) Cartwright has agreed to be the Keynote Speaker. Several other senior Warrior Leaders have also been invited to the Summit, including General Peter Pace, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff; General James L. Jones, Supreme Allied Commander, Europe and Commander, U.S. European Command; Lieutenant General Trey Obering, Director, Missile Defense Agency (MDA); and Major General (Promotable) Kevin Campbell, Joint Functional Component Commander for Integrated Missile Defense (JFCC- IMD). Other invited attendees and speakers include: the Honorable Ken Krieg, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics; Mr. Mike Schexnayder, Deputy to the Commander for Research, Development and Acquisition (RD&A), U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command; and Mr. James "Raleigh" Durham, Deputy Director, Joint Force Applications, OUSD (AT&L). The Second Annual Joint Integrated Air and Missile Defense (JIAMD) Summit is being planned by the Tennessee Valley Chapters of the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), Women In Defense (WID), and the Huntsville Chapters of the Armed Forces Communications Electronics Association (AFCEA) and the International Council On Systems Engineering (INCOSE). For further details on the JIAMD Summit, consult this web site: www.JIAMDsummit.org.
Education is STRONG in the Tennessee Valley As the unofficial "Mayor of Redstone Arsenal" since 2005, Garrison Commander Colonel John Olshefski is making education a top priority with the BRAC relocation coming to Redstone Arsenal. "Education is one of my top priorities and I am passionate about this topic," Olshefski says. "I believe my responsibilities include all of the Tennessee Valley. I feel this way because the 30,000 employees working on Redstone Arsenal come from all over the region. And we’ll all be affected by the upcoming BRAC moves." This past August, Olshefski, along with the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce, hosted an Education Summit that was attended by federal, state and local officials. The summit focused on how BRAC will affect Redstone Arsenal and all surrounding communities. "It was a productive meeting that focused specifically on public education in the Tennessee Valley. And the Summit showed that our public schools are very high in quality," Olshefski states. "Tennessee Valley schools provide an excellent education in the areas of math and reading. In fact, based upon available statistics from 2004, test scores show the Tennessee Valley is as good, if not better, than the Maryland/Northern Virginia area schools. Our schools produce as many, if not more, National Merit Scholars." Olshefski estimates there could be up to 9,000 new students associated with BRAC—children who have parents that work for the U.S. Army, Redstone Arsenal, or government contractors. He feels our communities need to begin preparing now for the upcoming changes since there are currently defined infrastructure needs estimated at $230 million that have not been addressed by the education budgets. "We need to do something now to improve our educational infrastructure," Olshefski says. To help bridge the financial gap created by BRAC, Impact Aid supplements will be helpful, but inadequate to support the future construction requirements. Impact Aid payments are provided by the Department of Education to local public school districts that educate federally connected students. Children of Redstone Arsenal employees (including military, DoD, civilian, and contractor) qualify as federally connected students. "Impact Aid is good for all schools," Olshefski explains. "To obtain the money that’s out there, all parents of federally connected students need to fill out the forms." Colonel Olshefski concludes, "The state of Alabama and local school systems have made tremendous strides in providing a quality education for our children. But more needs to be done. Well educated kids are the future!" For more information, contact the Redstone Arsenal Public Affairs Office at (256) 842-4161 or visit www.redstone.army.mil. Army Air Defense Artillery Association (NP)
The goals of ADAA are to foster a spirit of unity and esprit de corps among members of the Air Defense Artillery Branch, and support its affiliated activities, such as the Air Defense Artillery Museum, located at Fort Bliss, Texas. The Redstone Arsenal/Huntsville Chapter of ADAA was formed in 1988. Additional goals of the local chapter are to provide support to all soldiers and families of all branches, and contribute to the education and general welfare of the local military community. Some of the ways the Redstone/Huntsville Chapter of ADAA supports the military community include Space Camp Scholarships awarded to dependents of our local military soldiers, financial scholarships to Army ROTC students attending UAH and Alabama A&M, providing financial grants to Redstone Arsenal’s Total Tots Program, which provides care for ‘at risk’ children and military families in need. The local chapter of ADAA also provides monetary awards to the Redstone Arsenal Non-Commissioned Officer and Soldier of the Year, and has provided financial grants to the Huntsville Veteran’s Museum and the Blue Star Service Banner Program. The chapter hosts quarterly luncheons for members and guests, and an annual formal dinner dance honoring the Air Defense Artillery Branch and Saint Barbara – the patron saint of Artillery. The RSA/Huntsville Chapter of ADAA is very proud of its contributions to our Soldiers and their families and is glad to promote esprit de corps within the ADA Branch. It welcomes anyone interested in furthering the purposes of the association. For more information, visit the ADAA web site at www.firsttofire.com/. The Huntsville Association of Small Business in Advanced Technology* (NP)
The Huntsville Association of Small Businesses in Advanced Technology (HASBAT) is a nonprofit organization founded to increase business opportunities for high technology small businesses in the Huntsville area. HASBAT serves as a beacon on the latest business opportunities, developments, and legislation within the federal government which effect small contracting firms. The organization keeps its members abreast of pertinent issues by inviting leaders from NASA, AMCOM, SMDC, COE and other federal agencies, including the Small Business Administration, to present updates at its monthly membership luncheons. In addition to the networking opportunity, the HASBAT monthly luncheons also offer its members a means for exchange of capabilities. HASBAT makes available an annual directory profiling the capabilities of its member companies, providing an excellent resource for large prime contractors seeking to fulfill specialized requirements or to meet small business goals. The directory may also be used as a tool for small businesses seeking teammates for prime contract opportunities. HASBAT also works closely with local community leaders to ensure the needs and interests of its members are served. "HASBAT strives to create synergy among small high-tech companies within the Huntsville area," says Sharon A. Myers, Myers Technical Services. "We currently have more than 60 member companies. Together, we form a loud voice for legislative influence on policy makers." HASBAT annually awards scholarships to students majoring in high technology fields attending Alabama A&M University and the University of Alabama, Huntsville. This year, HASBAT will host its first annual awards dinner centered on recognizing a large business prime contractor for its initiatives in supporting small high-tech businesses. "We are very excited about presenting this award," says Myers. "We want to dispel the belief that all large primes tend to mistreat and/or take advantage of its small business subcontractors." For more information about HASBAT, visit the web site at www.HASBAT.org, e-mail amy@hasbat.org, or call (256) 830-1939. The Army Space and Missile Defense Association* (NP)
50 th Anniversary Celebration of the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic CommandThroughout the year of 2007, the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command is celebrating 50 years of outstanding work in the missile defense field. Each month, the command will be focusing on one methodology of sharing the history of the missile defense industry and encouraging employees to take pride in the great accomplishments of the science community. The celebration will take place throughout the command but primarily in Huntsville and Colorado Springs, where most SMDC/ARSTRAT employees are located. In January and February, the year of celebration began with the publication of historical articles in the command information newspaper, The Eagle. This monthly series will continue throughout the duration of the celebration, and stories can be seen online at www.smdc.army.mil/PubAff/The_Eagle.html. In March, SMDC/ARSTRAT continued its celebration by launching a web page (https://commandnet.smdc.army.mil/Historical/Weeks/19Mar-25Mar.html), initiating e-mail trailers for employee usage and distributing copies of the last published command history. A logo design competition will be announced in April. On May 11, there will be an SMDC/ARSTRAT ball in Colorado Springs. In June, all SMDC/ARSTRAT sites are encouraged to have a reunion picnic in which all current and past command employees can enjoy. The official Uncasing Ceremony for SMDC/ARSTRAT in Huntsville is tentatively scheduled for sometime in July. This ceremony will be the formal recognition of SMDC/ARSTRAT’s transition to a Huntsville headquarters. Also in July, Colorado Springs will be hosting a Fun Run. Celebration in August will be abundant at the 10 th Annual Space and Missile Defense Conference, where SMDC/ARSTRAT will have speakers, exhibits, and a plethora of leadership present. For September, Huntsville plans to have its Fun Run/Volksmarch event.Plans are in place for a premier dinner event in October in Huntsville. October is significant because it is the month that the Redstone Anti-Missile Missile System Office was established in 1957. Created for the development of NIKE-ZEUS, it was the first program/system office devoted to ballistic missile defense. November will keep SMDC/ARSTRAT employees active celebrating in conjunction with Veterans Day parades at most locations and Thanksgiving events. In December, SMDC/ARSTRAT hopes to have their 50 th Anniversary logo used as the Redstone Arsenal yearly ornament. There will also be open houses/holiday receptions at each of the sites to close out the calendar year.We hope you will join SMDC/ARSTRAT in celebrating 50 years of excellence in missile defense. For more information, please visit the SMDC/ARSTRAT home page and look for the "This Week in History" icon (https://commandnet.smdc.army.mil/). 2007 Space and Missile Defense Conference and Exhibition* (NP)
10th Annual Space and Missile Defense Conference and Exhibition Mark your calendars now! The 10th Annual Space and Missile Defense Conference and Exhibition (SMD Conference) will take place August 13-16, 2007, at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, Alabama. The theme for this year’s event is "Celebrating 50 Years in Space and Missile Defense". The SMD Conference is widely attended by more than 6,000 professionals from throughout the United States and our allies around the world. Event sponsors include the National Defense Industrial Association-Tennessee Valley Chapter (NDIA-TVC), Army Space and Missile Defense Association (ASMDA), and the Air Defense Artillery Association-Huntsville Chapter (ADAA). Conference highlights include presentations from internationally recognized experts in the areas of global ballistic missile defense systems development and operation, as well as integration, synchronization, and capability development to meet new threats. The conference will also include a training and technology track focused on emerging technologies. Sessions will also cover space support to the warfighter, homeland defense, and the integration of cruise missile defense. Confirmed speakers include Gen. James E. Cartwright, commander, U.S. Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM); Lt. Gen. James A. Abrahamson, director, Strategic Defense Initiative Organization; and MG Howard B. Bromberg, chief of staff, USSTRATCOM. Other invited speakers include Admiral Timothy J. Keating, commander, U.S. Pacific Command; Gen. Kevin P. Chilton, commander, Air Force Space Command; LTG Kevin T. Campbell, commanding general, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command; Lt. Gen. Henry A. "Trey" Obering III, director, Missile Defense Agency; Lt. Gen. Michael A. Hamel, commander, Space and Missile Systems Center, Air Force Space Command; and LTG Michael D. Maples, director, Defense Intelligence Agency. There will be exhibit displays throughout the entire VBC and daily attractions in each hall, including presentations from local and celebrity authors. These attractions, along with the viewing of all exhibits, are free and open to the general public. To register for the conference, visit the web site at www.smdconf.org, or contact Jeanne Weaver at (256) 533-6986, or fax (256) 533-4508. Register before July 1, 2007, to save! For additional information, please contact Giselle Bodin at (256) 955-3889 or giselle.bodin@smdc.army.mil. National Defense Industrial Association, TVC Chapter* (NP)NDIA Supports the Tennessee Valley Community The mission of the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) is to provide a legal and ethical forum for the interchange of ideas between the government and industry to resolve industrial problems of joint concern. Locally, the Tennessee Valley Chapter (TVC) of NDIA supports or sponsors many activities to encourage information exchange and recognition of excellence. Through the Chapter’s leadership and participation, as well as their significant member participation, the TVC has earned "Model Chapter" status for the last six consecutive years. The TVC of NDIA sponsors or co-sponsors many events annually such as the Space and Missile Defense Conference, the Joint Integrated Air and Missile Defense (JIAMD) Summit and the Southeastern Software & System Engineering Conference, as well as numerous luncheons and dinners for the purpose of providing industry updates by senior government and industry officials. Other community activities include support to the Veteran’s Day Parade and the Veteran’s Museum. The Chapter conducts an extensive awards program to recognize excellence in the workplace and to fund educational opportunities for students ranging from elementary school through post graduate studies. On May 1st, at its annual awards dinner, the Chapter will announce this year’s winner of the Major General John B. Medaris Award, the Chapter’s most prestigious award, to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the technical progress of the Defense Industrial Base for the defense preparedness of the United States. The awards dinner will also honor government and industry representatives for management or technical contributions to our Armed Forces and Scholarships and Fellowships will also be presented. Typically, the TVC provides over $15,000 per year to deserving undergraduate and post graduate students, and supports various educational programs in the local school systems. The TVC of the NDIA is headquartered in Huntsville and has 1403 individual members and 41 corporate members. For information about the Tennessee Valley Chapter of NDIA and upcoming events, programs, and membership, please visit http://www.ndia-tvc.org/. Brigadier General Mike Cannon*(NP)
The Program Executive Office (PEO) Missiles and Space develops and provides the missile systems for the U.S. Army. Since January 2004, Brigadier General Mike Cannon has overseen the PEO’s role as a soldier-supporting team that provides uncompromising service in development, procurement, and sustainment of superior weapon systems for homeland security and the war on terror. "The mission at PEO is to develop, produce, field, and sustain U.S. Army Missiles for now and in the future," Cannon says. "This is done by improving existing current systems and recognizing developing opportunities for advanced future missile systems." PEO focuses its efforts on the Joint Attack Munition Systems, Close Combat Weapon Systems, Non-Line of Sight Launch System, Precision Fires Rocket & Missile Systems, Cruise Missile Defense, Lower-Tier Missiles, and Integrated Air and Missile Defense. Specific projects include the Joint Common Missile for the Super Hornet, the Seahawk, the Super Cobra, U.S. Army’s Apache, FCS ARV-A, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, Integrated Air and Missile Defense Systems, the Guided MLRS P3I Rocket, the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile, and the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II. Brigadier General Cannon, along with his talented staff, have valuable educational and military backgrounds to produce missile systems right here at Redstone Arsenal. "This PEO—and the people in it—is a national treasure," Cannon states. "This is the only place in the nation where we do tactical missiles." Cannon’s military career started in 1977 and he holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Engineering, and a Master’s degree in Industrial Management from Texas A&M University. He also has a Master’s degree in National Resource Strategy from the National Defense University. He has served in a variety of commands and has received many accolades for his accomplishments. "We have the best and most sophisticated missile systems in the world," Cannon states. "However, we need to continue to move forward with technological advancements and developing the next generation of missile systems. We are committed to serving any soldier…anywhere…all the time!" For more information about PEO Missiles and Space, contact Dan O’Boyle at (256) 876-4162 or via e-mail at dan.oboyle@redstone.army.mil.  Embry-Riddle Huntsville Students Selected for Who's Who Among American Universities and Colleges* (NP) The Huntsville campus of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Worldwide is pleased to announce that two of their students, Carlton L. Foster and David M. Rumney, have been selected for Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. Each year, a select group of students are nominated to accept this award. This exclusive honor is conferred by more than 1,000 schools in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and is symbolized by the presentation of an award certificate followed by inclusion in the annual Who’s Who publication. The Embry-Riddle Worldwide Who’s Who Committee, consisting of faculty and staff from the Worldwide Campus, evaluated the nominees and submitted their recommendations to the Who’s Who National Headquarters for final approval. Foster, whose hometown is Austell, GA, is an aerospace engineer and master of aeronautical science student with a 4.0 GPA. He works for NASA at the Marshall Space Flight Center as the Mechanisms Team Lead and senior engineer and technical advisor in the Structural and Mechanical Design Branch, EV32. He has helped with the development and certification of mechanisms and mechanical systems for numerous launch vehicles, spacecraft, and experiments, including the Hubble Space Telescope, Small Expendable Deployer System, Solar X-Ray Imager, Tethered Satellite System, Chandra X-Ray Observatory, International Space Station, and Gravity Probe B. In addition to his professional achievements, Foster is involved in volunteer work at his church, where he serves as a deacon, director of the adult Sunday school division, and volunteer bus driver. He is also the past commander of the Huntsville Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol, where he serves as an emergency services pilot, observer, and scanner. Rumney, whose hometown is Phoenix, Ariz., is a Senior Systems Engineer for Science Applications International Corp. He provides contractor support to the Special Operations Aviation Division of the Army’s Aviation Engineering Directorate, specializing in airworthiness of software, avionics, and flight management systems. He is a student in the master of aeronautical science program with a 4.0 GPA. In service to the community, Rumney is founder and Director-at-Large of the Iowa Clothe-A-Child Charity, which has helped over a thousand children across Iowa receive new winter clothing since 1998. For this work, he was presented with the Iowa Young Mason of the Year Award in 1999. He is a member and past master of Marion Lodge #6, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons. Additionally, Rumney is a member and past Grand Commander of the Iowa DeMolay Court of Chevaliers. As advisor to the Cedar Rapids chapter, Order of DeMolay, he was named Advisor of the Year in 2000. Additionally, Rumney served as a Linn County Underwater Search and Recovery Diver, recovering drowning victims and evidence for the Linn Country Sheriff’s Department and various fire departments. The Huntsville campus of Embry-Riddle Worldwide offers undergraduate and graduate academic programs geared to the working adult in an accelerated format with classes meeting one night a week for nine weeks, with five terms per year. Degree offerings include aeronautical science, technical management, aviation maintenance, and professional aeronautics. College credit is awarded for military Technical Schools, specialty skill-levels, and certain FAA, A&P, and ATC licenses and certificates. Students can also earn credit through CLEP/DANTES testing. For more information about the Huntsville campus, e-mail huntsville.center@erau.edu or call (256) 876-9763. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the world’s largest, fully accredited university specializing in aviation and aerospace, offers more than 30 degree programs in its colleges of Arts and Sciences, Aviation, Business, and Engineering. The university educates more than 34,000 students annually in undergraduate and graduate programs at residential campuses in Prescott, AZ, and Daytona Beach, FL, worldwide at more than 130 centers in the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Middle East, and through online learning. Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) Huntsville Chapter* (NP)
Beyond the numerous benefits of networking with other AFCEA associates, AFCEA membership provides access to the Association’s educational and professional development opportunities. SIGNAL is a monthly international news magazine serving the critical information needs of government, military, and industry professionals active in the fields of command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR); information security; research and development; electronics; and homeland security. Education is an AFCEA core value. The Association, in partnership with the AFCEA Educational Foundation, Chapters and Members worldwide, presents $1.4 million annually in scholarships, grants, and awards to students in the "hard" sciences attending the five service academies, ROTC programs, graduate schools and other educational institutions. The AFCEA Professional Development Center (PDC) complements the Association’s educational efforts by providing a wide-ranging program of continuing education and technical training courses. AFCEA TechNet conferences offer problem-solving and networking opportunities through exhibits, technical panels, and featured speakers. Decision-makers from around the world attend AFCEA conferences for hands-on demonstrations, question-and-answer sessions, and system solutions. For complete details on AFCEA, please visit the AFCEA International web site at www.afcea.org. For more information on the AFCEA Huntsville Chapter, please e-mail afcea-hsv@comcast.net. Huntsville Aerospace Marketing Association (HAMA)*
HAMA meets the second Friday of each month at 11:30am at the Redstone Arsenal Officers’ and Civilians’ Club. The focus of their luncheons is to provide an opportunity for government to inform industry of upcoming reorganizations, procurement opportunities, Base Realignment & Closures (BRAC) timelines, or other issues of interest to the business development community. The speakers are commanders, program managers, directors, etc., from organizations like NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, Army Materiel Command, Missile Defense Agency, Army Aviation and Missile Command, Army Space and Missile Defense Command, Program Executive Offices, and other government agencies. Additionally, HAMA has an annual picnic at Ditto Landing in September as well as a facility tour during the year. The HAMA luncheon provides a forum for networking with a significant number of key industry representatives in an informal atmosphere, as well as the opportunity to gain insight from each briefing. HAMA members interact with guest speakers and other business development professionals during a social period preceding each luncheon. For more information on HAMA, visit the web site at www.hamaweb.org or contact the president, Don Sanders at (256) 533-1720. HATS Science & Technology Education and Training Conference* (NP)
On March 28, 2007, 22 teachers from the North Alabama region gathered at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville to present the results of their grant activities to the Science & Technology Education and Training (STEDTRAIN) Board of Directors and other interested educators and citizens. This year, the STEDTRAIN Grants Program Overview Conference was held at the VBC in conjunction with the Alabama Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) Technology Fair to increase teacher and public awareness of the grant program and its possible opportunities. Last September, STEDTRAIN distributed more than $20,000 to these 22 teachers for innovative projects aimed at stimulating students in the areas of math and science. All grant recipients demonstrated the work that their students had done through displays and oral presentations. Projects ranged from elementary school students creating mathematics super heroes and designing web sites, to middle school students building computers and developing a web site with Chez Republic students, to high school students building robots and conducting DNA analyses. STEDTRAIN is a committee of the nonprofit Huntsville Association of Technical Societies (HATS) and is focused on improving the math and science education of the next generation. K-12 teachers interested in receiving grants for next year should submit their proposals by May 1, 2007 to STEDTRAIN, c/o HATS, P.O. Box 1964, Huntsville, AL 35807 or send by e-mail as an attachment to: stedtrain@hats.org. Application forms and sample submissions can be found on the HATS web site at: www.hats.org/STEDTRAIN/stedtr.shtml. Grants are limited to no more than $1000. Public and nonprofit schools in Jackson, Madison, Morgan, Marshall, and Limestone Counties in Alabama and Lincoln County in Tennessee are eligible. For more information, please contact Woody Williams at (256) 837-1391 or P.G. Grodzka at (256) 536-8638. Organizations interested in contributing to STEDTRAIN’s grant fund can send donations made payable to HATS STEDTRAIN to: HATS STEDTRAIN, P.O. Box 1964, Huntsville, AL 35807. For more information, please visit the HATS web site or contact Philomena Grodzka at (256) 536-8638 or grodzka@huntsbama.us. Association of the United States Army (AUSA)* (NP)AUSA Redstone-Huntsville Chapter A Winner Again! The Redstone-Huntsville Chapter of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) continues to chart a course of excellence. At the recent Third Region (Southeastern US) meeting at Ft. Rucker, AL, the Chapter received the President’s Trophy for Large Chapter of Excellence for 2007. The revolving trophy is quite large, so it is sure to be most visible at the various upcoming AUSA events. This award comes on the heels of the Chapter’s national recognition as Best Chapter in the Large Chapter Category for the third year in a row. How does "four-peat" sound? It could happen, so stay tuned! As the summer approaches, AUSA plans to sponsor and participate in many events in the Huntsville and surrounding communities. Somewhat behind the scenes, Chapter board members attend both college and high school ROTC/JROTC award events throughout the area where they make presentations to outstanding cadets. AUSA continues to make presentations to Soldiers and Army civilians selected as Non-commissioned Officer and Soldier of the Quarter and Year, Drill Sergeant of the Year, Department of the Army Civilian of the Year, and Military and Civilian Instructors of the Year. AUSA will sponsor the 9th Annual Tactical Missiles Conference on May 21-22 at the Von Braun Center, and the 232nd Army Birthday Celebration on June 14 at Redstone Arsenal. The Chapter plays a significant role in Armed Forces Week activities from July 14-20. Events that week include Military Appreciation Night with the Tennessee Valley Vipers on the 14th, Concert in the Park featuring the 313th USAR Band on the 16th, Army Soldier Show performances on the 17th and 18th, the annual SALUTE Dinner on the 17th and the Armed Forces Week Golf Tournament on the 20th. The Redstone-Huntsville AUSA Chapter invites you to become a member, either as an individual or as a corporation. You can check out Chapter activities at the web site (www.ausaredstone.org) and find out how you can participate as a part of this winning organization supporting our Soldiers, Army civilians and their families. The Volunteer Center* (NP)FATHER OF THE YEAR 2007 If there were an Oscar nomination for fatherhood, these men would certainly deserve one. Ten "Heroes at Heart" have been chosen as finalists for Father of the Year 2007 in Madison County. They will be honored during a gala at the Von Braun Center North Hall on June 1st. Presenting Sponsors for the evening are The Boeing Company and COLSA Corporation. The event, in its fifth year, is growing in popularity among the community. These fathers or father figures, who live in Madison County, represent the very best of fatherhood in the area. Through the impact of their lives, these heroes not only positively influence children, but also the communities in which they live. The ten finalists are: Eddie Johnson, Jack Ragland, Charlie Madkins, Richard Hawkins, Sr., Ben Rawls, James Williams, Todd Owen, Jonathan Ford, Sr., Samuel Sullins, and Michael Cornell. Additional Father of the Year sponsors are: Gold Level Sponsor– Accenture; Silver Level Sponsors – AEgis Technology, Camber, CDP&A, George & Margo Williams, GlenTalon Consulting, The Huntsville Times, Mr. Alan Jenkins of Intersouth-Properties, Jerry Damson Honda, Joe & Lana Ritch, MG Jim & Becky Pillsbury, Qualis Corporation, Redstone Federal Credit Union, The Surgery Center, Toyota; Bronze Level Sponsors – AT&T, Avocent Corporation, Barry Schrimsher, Michael Brodowki - Attorney, Technology Management Training Corporation; and Volunteer Center Level Sponsors – Fuqua & Partners Architects, Wachovia Bank, Woody Anderson Ford. The Volunteer Center of Madison County is the premier connection between volunteers and community needs. For more information, call (256) 539-7797 or visit www.volunteerhsv.org. United Way*United Way of Madison County is busy preparing for the Annual Community Investment Celebration. At this luncheon, United Way announces funding for 70+ programs in the upcoming year. Thousands of people invest in their community through United Way every year. United Way takes this responsibility very seriously and strives to make certain these dollars are invested in programs that make a real difference in peoples’ lives. To this end, a team of volunteers go through a rigorous evaluation process to ensure the program is achieving its goals and desired outcomes annually, and then recommends funding for the following year. These programs make a difference to individual clients while improving the community as a whole. One gentleman writes regarding his mother, who received help from CASA of Madison County: "I just wanted to send you a note to say thanks for helping my mother. Your volunteer came out and put up some safety railing for her on the porch and in her bath tub. I think you also had a group of young people come over and do some yard work for her. I know she really appreciates all you have done for her over the past few months. My mom was such a giver herself over her lifetime and now it is really nice for her to reap some of the blessings from helping others out for so many years." The public is invited to attend the Annual Community Investment Celebration on Friday, May 18, 2007 from 11:30am–1pm. The cost is $20 per person. Please RSVP to Cynthia Robinson, United Way of Madison County, (256) 536-0745 Ext. 107. Business Networking International* (NP)The World’s First Strong Contact Network for Technology Companies Business Networking International (BNI), THE business referral organization,™ has opened the first technology-focused chapter in the world in Huntsville. Its vision is to create a network of technology-driven companies to share projects, business opportunities, and sales. The target companies for this new organization are those in defense, space, biomedical and engineering. As the world’s largest referral organization, BNI provides education, accountability, and structure. At each meeting, each person has the opportunity to inform others about his or her business and request referrals and introductions. "The more specific you are about whom you want to meet, the easier it is for us to help you," says Meaghan Williams, Executive Director of BNI in North Alabama. The premise in this networking is to building a trusting business relationship with other sales professionals, and BNI members are more than willing to share their business contacts.
Williams adds, "This BNI Tech Chapter will be a great place for larger companies to go to find small businesses and suppliers to help them meet their requirements for large public projects." For more information, e-mail meg@bnialabama.com or call (866) 291-9496, ext. 2. Or contact Dave Knowles by e-mail at dave@whoswhoinc.com or call (256) 704-8888, ext. 1. Junior Achievement*
You know them for who they are…legends of the community who have provided a legacy to our community. Not only have they made outstanding contributions to free enterprise but are also inspiring role models for young people. Their business achievements have demonstrated business excellence, courageous thinking, and community mindedness. These leaders were honored on April 20 at the Inaugural Northern Alabama Business Hall of Fame gala at the Von Braun Center. The 2007 Laureates included:
In addition, the Business/Technology Advocate Award was presented to Huntsville’s Mayor Loretta Spencer. Mayor Spencer was recognized as an outstanding elected official at the local level that effectively blends personal, business, and civic accomplishments. She sets a great example for the business leaders of tomorrow. Dr. Greg and Carmen Gum chaired the black tie event, and WHNT anchor and reporter, Steve Johnson, was the Master of Ceremonies. Attendees enjoyed videos spotlighting each laureate as part of the award ceremony. Junior Achievement students participated in the event, serving as student ambassadors. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne was the Presenting Sponsor and the event was hosted by Junior Achievement of Northern Alabama, Inc. (JANA). "These leaders have made a lasting impact on our community" says Tracy Lamm, Chairman of the Board for JANA. To find out how you can get involved with the Northern Alabama Business Hall of Fame or other Junior Achievement programs, contact the JANA office at (256) 533-4661. About Junior Achievement. Junior Achievement (JA) is the world’s largest organization dedicated to educating young people about business, economics, and free enterprise. Through a dedicated volunteer network, JA provides in-school and after-school programs for the students in grades K–12. JA offers educational programs that focus on nine key content areas: importance of education, workplace readiness skills, business, citizenship, economics, entrepreneurship, ethics/character, financial literacy, and career education/development. Today, over 7 million students worldwide are served by junior Achievement. For more information, visit the Junior Achievement web site at www.ja.org (worldwide) or http://northernalabama.ja.org (local).
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Cutting-edge Precision that Hits Quality Every Time
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Second Annual Joint Integrated Air & Missile Defense (JIAMD)
Summit Will Be Held 05-08 March 2007 in Huntsville Alabama
The Army Air Defense Artillery Association (ADAA) is an Army-wide private
organization formed in 1980. It operates under the provisions of Department
of the Army Regulation 210-1, and IRS Code 501 c. (3), as a nonprofit
organization to support Air Defense Artillery Soldiers and retirees.
Program Executive Office Missiles and Space: Serving
Any Soldier…Anywhere…All the Time
AFCEA serves as a bridge between government requirements and industry
capabilities, representing the top government, industry, and military
professionals in the fields of information technology, communications, and
intelligence. A nonprofit international association, AFCEA is dedicated to
supporting global security by providing an ethical environment that
encourages a close cooperative relationship among civil government agencies,
the military, and industry. AFCEA’s 31,000+ members are among the world’s
leading designers, planners, manufacturers, testers and users of systems,
services, and components for IT, communications, and intelligence. As one of
134 chapters located around the world, the AFCEA Huntsville Chapter gives
engineers, programmers, managers, government officials, and military
personnel continuing opportunities to exchange ideas during bi-monthly
luncheon meetings. In addition, the Huntsville Chapter co-sponsors the Joint
Integrated Air and Missile Defense (JIAMD) Summit, a by-invitation-only
classified conference to aid in achieving improved government and industry
communication by obtaining innovative industrial inputs necessary to attain
a more joint and integrated air and missile defense family of systems.
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