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| Magazine Stories • Issue 6, Fall/Winter 2007/08 |
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COVER STORY: WestWind Technologies, Inc.* Posted 8/17/07 Truly a Huntsville Hometown Success Story
WTI’s President is LTG (retired) Dan Petrosky. Before joining WTI, Petrosky served 37 years in Army Aviation and retired as a Lieutenant General. As an aviator himself, Petrosky has first-hand experience with the importance of products that perform as promised and are delivered on time. Petrosky emphasizes, "Simply put, we know that lives depend on us. We won’t let them down." WTI’s services include engineering, manufacturing, integration, modification, and aircraft maintenance and support. WestWind’s high standards in all areas are a sound foundation for diverse capabilities, including design engineering, technical publications, and complete kit manufacturing, along with integration and installation. Modifications WTI installs on aircraft include missile warning systems, crashworthy external fuel systems, search-and-rescue systems, and high-speed personnel insertion/extraction systems. A soldier’s sense of duty and urgency exists in WTI’s attention to rigorous quality standards and quick response. An aviation maintenance officer stationed in Iraq sent this August 6, 2007 e-mail about electrical wiring harnesses that WTI designed, prototyped, tested, fabricated and delivered in just 10 weeks:
WestWind manages a dedicated warehouse and logistics organization that delivers Common Missile Warning "A" and "B" kits to destinations all over the world. Components manufactured at WestWind are consolidated with other manufacturers’ parts and repacked. The warehouse also provides spare parts and coordinates field returns for repair and refurbishment. It’s crucial that the work be done quickly and be done right. The Logistics Department completes 400-500 such transactions each week, many of which are shipped within hours of the identification of the need. In recognition of WestWind’s contribution, on August 3, 2007, LTC Raymond D. Pickering, Army Product Manager for Infrared Countermeasures at Redstone Arsenal, presented awards to five WestWind employees for outstanding contributions in support of the Common Missile Warning System. An Air Warrior customer compliments WTI on recent UH-60 equipment:
To inaugurate WTI’s production of the Transportable Flight Proficiency Simulator (TFPS) for the Army, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held on July 31, 2007 at WTI’s newest Huntsville location devoted expressly to simulator production. The TFPS is an effective and more economical way to train pilots. Over a million dollars is saved by training pilots on the simulator for 2,000 hours compared to conducting 2,000 hours of training on the actual helicopter. Government TFPS prototype simulators were originally assembled outdoors. However, WTI President Dan Petrosky recommended the simulator assembly process be brought indoors, providing an environmentally controlled area for both equipment and employees. The Army agreed. The first TFPS will be completed and shipped in January 2008. A total of 60 new jobs were created to staff the facility. Colonel Newman Shufflebarger, Project Manager, Cargo Helicopter Project Office on the Redstone Arsenal, said at the ribbon cutting:
WestWind is IS09001/AS9100 Registered and FAA Part 145 Repair Station Certified. WestWind’s quality performance is exceptional, with a first-pass aircraft acceptance rate of 98 percent. "Our achievements in quality and delivery stand as evidence to our understanding of functional requirements," Petrosky states. The government, via CPSR (Contractor Purchasing System Review), has certified WTI’s purchasing process. "WTI has a strong small business culture, and we believe in supporting other small businesses," Petrosky comments. "In 2006, we placed 1,873 purchase orders worth almost $7.5 million with companies in the Tennessee Valley, and more than $5 million of these expenditures were with Alabama companies." Petrosky says, "During our years of partnering with the Department of Defense, WestWind has gained a reputation for responsiveness, flexibility, and customer focus. We are aware that a vital trust has been placed with us and we are grateful for every opportunity to serve our warfighters." Contact Info:
ADEPT Technologies has been Making a Point of Precision manufacturing components for aerospace, military, and communications applications for many years. Applying the same philosophies that have built a solid business foundation in manufacturing, ADEPT now targets research and development, obsolescence, product, and system design with the newly formed Applied Sciences Department. ADEPT co-owners Brad and Chad Fielder chose Marty Williams to serve as the Applied Sciences Department Director. As the principal engineer, Marty brings nearly two decades of experience in innovative and award winning designs to ADEPT. In addition to his engineering and design credentials, Marty also brings considerable entrepreneurial experience, having owned his own business for nearly ten years. By definition, applied sciences are an application of natural sciences (such as physics) to solve practical problems. Research & development and engineering are classic examples. Adding this capability, ADEPT positions itself in a niche where few small businesses are equipped to compete. ADEPT now offers a one stop solution capable of developing an idea from concept, to prototype, and even to production, meeting difficult schedule and fiscal constraints, all under strict aerospace quality standards. The Applied Sciences Department is pursuing work in many areas, with an emphasis on technology refreshments and research and development for the Department of Defense and other government agencies. However, the commercial sector can benefit greatly from ADEPT’s capabilities as well. Marty says, "Combining applied sciences and manufacturing not only benefits our large aerospace and defense customers, but commercial companies ranging from small sole proprietorships to large corporations can also benefit from our unique capabilities. Being able to efficiently move from a client’s initial concept to prototype and then to production is invaluable to any customer, no matter what their size." Currently, the Applied Sciences Department provides expertise in areas including part to system level product design, automation, and analysis capabilities. The Applied Sciences Department is expected to follow the exponential growth curve that ADEPT is currently experiencing. As the department expands, it will be occupying offices and state-of-the-art labs in ADEPT’s new 130,000 square foot facility currently under construction. ADEPT is a Native American owned company, SDB 8(a) certified, ISO 9001-2000 and AS9100B registered, and employees a lead auditor on site. For innovative solutions to challenging design and manufacturing problems, contact ADEPT Technologies. Contact Info:
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 modification center at the Albertville Regional Airport (approximately 45 miles southeast of Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville), will become fully operational in early spring 2008. In a major step forward for the aviation industry, this facility will propel aircraft services forward by offering new levels of significantly increased resources for the military and civil aviation markets. The new facility will be used for upgrading and modernizing mission systems on military aircraft. One significant advantage of this facility 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 to provide mission systems integration for rotary wing aircraft, 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 this new, state-of-the-art facility include:
AIC also operates two 8,000 square foot hangar facilities at the Albertville Airport. Both hangars 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:
The new aircraft modification facility reflects an abiding commitment to provide the customer with the very best products and services that industry can offer. MTC Technologies, Inc. Last year, AIC joined the MTC Technologies, Inc. family of companies. As part of MTC’s Modernization and Sustainment Group, AIC will become part of the MTC brand at the beginning of 2008. MTC’s realignment will bring more depth and breadth to its ability to serve Army Aviation in Huntsville, as well as its customers throughout the Department of Defense. MTC Technologies is an industry-recognized provider of aircraft modernization and sustainment, professional services, C4ISR, and logistics solutions to the Department of Defense and national security agencies. Headquartered in Dayton, OH, MTC was founded in 1984 as Modern Technologies Corp., became a public company in 2002, and today employs approximately 3,000 professionals at more than 40 locations nationwide and overseas. MTC is extremely proud of the role the company plays in support of our nation’s defense and freedom. MTC is one of the foremost Ohio-based providers of technical and professional services to the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community. The company is ISO 9000 Certified, and has imaginative, innovative professionals who have the agility, in-depth knowledge, and background experience to help its customers meet the challenges facing our nation in the war on terror. MTC Modernization and Sustainment Group After five years at war, our military weapon platforms are wearing thin. Dozens of aircraft are too old to fly safely or they lack the sophisticated technology to combat new enemy threats. New platforms will be hard to come by due to long acquisition cycles and hefty price tags. Thus, a trade-off exists between buying new systems or spending scarce dollars to extend the life of current systems and modernize their equipment and subsystems. With a solid reputation in modernization and sustainment for a variety of major weapons systems, unique facilities to do repairs and upgrades, proprietary tools to identify obsolete parts and systems, and the ability to locate/manufacture replacements, MTC Modernization & Sustainment Group is geared to support aging aircraft and other systems’ obsolescence issues. If the dollars are transferred to obtain fewer, but newer and more capable platforms and/or systems, MTC will compete for the ensuing development, procurement, test, and deployment programs. Contact Info:
Accelerating the flow of technology to the warfighter is a top priority within the Department of Defense. This flow, known as ‘Technology Transition’, is a multifaceted effort that requires teamwork and communication between government, industry, and a number of interrelated functional communities. In 2003, the Defense Acquisition University (DAU) initiated a cooperative effort between the Army’s PEO Aviation; the Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center; and the Army Aviation Warfighting Center to improve the rate of successful transition of advanced technologies to systems meeting the U.S. Armed Forces’ critical operational needs. Over the last five years, this effort has matured into the Army’s Technology Assessment and Transition Management (TATM) process, and is now a standard process by which a number of Army organizations share technology requirements, stay up-to-date on technology assessments, and successfully manage technology transitions. The TATM process stresses early transition planning and ongoing communications between acquisition program managers, Science & Technology (S&T) managers, requiring organizations, the sustainment community, and a variety of other process stakeholders. At the heart of the TATM process is a government-owned, web-enabled software application tool suite. In addition to process management support, SAIC’s Systems and Technology Solutions Business Unit in Huntsville develops, maintains, and supports the tool suite on behalf of the government. The TATM Tool Suite’s relational database contains detailed descriptions of Acquisition Programs and S&T Projects. The Tool Suite enables the linking of specific Acquisition Programs to S&T Projects developing technologies with a high potential for transition to satisfy that program’s needs. Using TATM, process stakeholders accomplish assessments of supporting S&T projects; develop transition roadmaps; evaluate cost, schedule, and performance risks; and implement transition risk management plans to ensure the successful transition of technology to meet warfighter needs. With insight gained from the technology transition roadmaps and other reports generated by the Tool Suite, program managers and other stakeholders can better plan to leverage the best technology available to maintain the advantages for our warfighters. Early identification of the potential application of emerging technologies across multiple systems, what the Army calls Horizontal Technology Integration, is also possible. TATM Tool Suite reports can be placed directly into the various transition planning documents. While TATM was initially implemented by PEO Aviation for the purpose of more effectively transitioning new technologies onto Army Aviation platforms, the process has been adapted to other organizations’ existing technology transition management frameworks including the Robotic Systems Joint Project Office, PEO Soldier, and the Joint Ground Robotics Enterprise (JGRE) within the Office of the Secretary of Defense. The JGRE Director, Ms. Ellen Purdy, says that the ". . . process has a lot of merit. I adapted it for Joint Ground Robotics use, and it has been very effective for us." Contact Info:
In 1989 when two engineers, Guy and Alicia Juzang, began their aerospace engineering, systems, software, and technical services company, they dreamed outrageously and named their venture Infinity Technology, Inc. "We named our company with the aim of giving God the glory and set out to establish a company that could move into the aerospace industry and then ultimately into space," Guy says. Today, Infinity Technology, a woman-owned small business, has 120 employees, offices in eight states, and provides clients with services from the ground to outer space. The core competencies of the company include Avionics Software Development, Application Software Development & IT, Quality Management & Surveillance, Hardware Fabrication & Manufacturing, Document Imaging, and Support Services. In 1991, Infinity achieved one of its goals and obtained its first contract work that involved systems integration and digitizing material safety data sheets for Decatur’s Monsanto Chemical. Then, AMCOM contracted Infinity for three years to provide automated test equipment, test program set, and test and evaluation for the Kiowa Warrior, MLRS, and Avenger Missile launcher worldwide. Infinity provided a technical reference model for the Apache Longbow (PEO Aviation), and built computer chassis, pintles, and truck parts for the Army. Additionally, Infinity provided C++ software IV&V work on the Space and Missile Defense Command’s Ground Base Intercept System and worked on the Ground Base (now THAAD) and Aegis radars. By 1993, Infinity began aerospace work for the United States Air Force and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics’ (LMA) F-22. It supported the 7000 node, wide-area network that provided the programmers and engineers their computer tools to design and produce the F-22, C130, and C5. This successful 14-year relationship with LMA led to it nominating Infinity to win the Small Business Administration and Lockheed’s 2000 Subcontractor of the Year awards. Infinity also helped Lockheed design, code, and test the Operation Flight Program (OFP) of the F-22, and then was the lead company in the management of the Systems Integration Lab and the Simulation Lab for the F-22. In 2003, the Dryden Flight Research Center named Infinity its Woman Owned Business of the Year. Recently, Infinity became ISO 9001:2000-certified. Another one of Infinity’s goals was reached this year with the awarding of the Orion project. This project will build a human space flight system to transfer astronauts between the International Space Station, the Moon, Mars, and beyond. "Infinity is extremely pleased to be Lockheed Martin Space’s teammate on the NASA Orion/Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) contract!" he exclaims. "The contract has three phases and spans 27 years." Along with its soaring services, Juzang and Infinity team members continue to impact the community. Annually, Infinity provides scholarship monies and internships to Alabama A&M University, Oakwood College, and UAH. The 100 Black Men of America, Inc./Greater Huntsville chapter, named Juzang 2003 Mentor of the Year for Economic Development. Infinity and Kidz 4 Kidz, Inc., an organization it started, raised $5,000 for Huntsville’s St. Jude Children’s Research Center (Oncology Pediatrics) through a benefit concert and Juzang serves as the corporate chair for the 2008 United Negro College Fund’s 30th Anniversary banquet. "We moved from the ground, doing work with AMCOM, then aerospace with the F-22, which was another step toward Orion," Juzang states. "In hindsight, what has been the end of the process was set at the beginning (on to Infinity). Each step was a building block for accomplishing our vision that’s driven by innovation and built on integrity." Contact Info:
MKV in HSV Lockheed Martin is proud to support the Multiple Kill Vehicle (MKV) program in Huntsville! Since receiving the competitive contract in January 2004 from the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and the Space and Missile Defense Command (SMDC), Lockheed Martin’s talented engineering workforce in the Tennessee Valley has made tremendous progress in the development of the MKV. The MKV destroys multiple threat objects with a single interceptor launch. This engagement approach will increase the probability of intercepting the threat object and defeat decoys in the most efficient and effective manner. Dr. Patricia Dare, Lockheed Martin MKV Business Development manager states, "Lockheed Martin is designing and developing a volume kill capability to counter present and future missile threats to the United States and its allies." The MKV is modular, making it adaptable to multiple basing modes on either land or sea. It consists of two major segments, the carrier vehicle and the kill vehicles. The carrier vehicle deploys and assigns the kill vehicles and manages the engagement. The kill vehicles and carrier vehicle are both used to destroy decoys and threat objects. The MKV program, which is part of the MDA’s Ballistic Missile Defense System, increases capability, lowers the costs of missile midcourse intercept engagements, and offers an effective near-term response to ballistic missile threats. "The MKV system architecture incorporates modularity, commonality and producibility to provide cost effectiveness and a solution that is easily adaptable as technology and threats evolve," Dare adds. As a direct result of BRAC, MDA is consolidating into Huntsville, making the area a center of excellence for all kill vehicle technology. And, because MKV is an MDA priority development program with great adaptability, MKV applies to all of the MDA midcourse programs. With the MDA Program Director for MKV, Mr. Richard Matlock, now based in Huntsville, Lockheed Martin is establishing an even stronger presence here to work closely with the MDA. Lockheed Martin MKV Deputy Program Manager Randy Colvin says, "MKV is the next generation in hit-to-kill technology and Lockheed Martin’s approach is to make the MKV smaller and lighter to maximize its effectiveness. "I had the privilege to work on the first ground-based missile system and now I’m excited to bring this second generation of capability to our country," Randy Riley, Lockheed Martin Program Director for flight software adds. "I’m very excited to have the MKV program growing in Huntsville. And I’m proud to be a missile defense pioneer with this program and to continue pushing the envelope." By 2010, the MKV program will bring many jobs to the North Alabama area. Lockheed Martin currently has 30 people involved in the program in Huntsville and future plans call for more than 125 Lockheed Martin, government, and other contractor employees being involved in MKV in the Huntsville area. "Huntsville is a key location for integrating MKV with the Ballistic Missile Defense elements," Dare states. "We are in close proximity to Courtland, AL where we plan to assemble and test the MKV." Randy Riley adds, "MKV reinforces Huntsville as a major force in defense technology and Lockheed Martin has made a significant investment in Huntsville with multiple facilities supporting the MDA." Lockheed Martin’s Vision: Powered by Innovation, Guided by Integrity, We Help Our Customers Achieve Their Most Challenging Goals. Contact Info:
The Secret is Out Southern Digital Products, Inc. (SDPI) is no longer the best kept secret in Huntsville for design and integration of conference rooms, boardrooms, Command & Control, and video over the Internet. Walter Bridges and his wife, Terri, started the small woman-owned business with the vision of bringing the digital revolution to Huntsville and the Southeast. SDPI has more than 120 years of combined personnel expertise and has worked in the broadcast industry for over 14 years, as well as with high-end government facilities. "We have an excellent reputation for our knowledge of products, finding the right solutions to our customers’ requirements, and for staying within their budgets," Walter says. Recently, SDPI was awarded a Federal Supply Schedule 70 contract (GS-35F-0378T) and can now more effectively service their government clients. "Government customers of SDPI can now purchase design, engineering, and integration services and products through SDPI’s GSA contract," Walter states. "This will allow government buyers to purchase directly through our pre-negotiated contract." Terri explains, "SDPI is the only company in Huntsville with a GSA contract that specifically deals with broadcast and audiovisual presentation equipment and integration." One of the many clients SDPI supports is NASA. SDPI has provided product for the Russian Services Group at Marshall Space Flight Center that allows them to transmit a broadcast quality video and audio signal from Moscow to both Huntsville and Houston in just over a quarter of a second via NASA’s internal IP network. SDPI has also designed the new Radiation Detection Office Control Room at Kennedy Space Center, and continues to supply products that support shuttle launches and unmanned rocket launches. Other noteworthy customers include DoD, Dynetics, EWTN, Huntsville Hospital, Vanderbilt University, and ministries such as Willowbrook Baptist Church and T.L. Lowry Ministries, to just name a few. As part of its design process, SDPI provides a first-time consultation at no charge to determine a client’s needs and budget. Once SDPI installs and integrates the system, they offer training and service agreements after the sale. "It’s not just the products, it’s the people who are designing, programming, and integrating the system," Walter declares. "We don’t want a customer to waste money, so we’re not going to allow our customers to paint themselves into a corner. We’re going to give them a way out." SDPI’s recent rapid growth has been an indicator that its secret is out. The company is adding new team members. "The word is out about SDPI!" Terri exclaims. "We realize that it is only through the exceptional efforts of our team members that we can maintain our position as an industry leader. You can contact us for a confidential consideration in assisting you with your application." Contact Info:
Proactive and Responsive in Human Resources Business Resource Solutions (BRS), the premier firm in this region for delivering business management services, is both proactive and responsive to its clients’ operational support needs. "BRS focuses on providing human resources, accounting, and government contracting for start-up, small and medium-sized businesses," says Sharon Yalowitz, President/CEO. "We provide a full operational support system to handle the core back-office issues so our customers are free to focus on technical performance and business development for their companies." Among BRS’ fastest growing area of services is the Human Resources division, led by Eddie Littrell. Joining the company in 2006, Littrell offers BRS clients a wealth of HR expertise with a concentration in government contracting. His career highlights include serving in the U.S. Army and Alabama Army National Guard, and working with several fast-growing government contractors and large corporations in North Alabama. "Human resources is evolving, especially when it comes to the increasing availability of electronic tools," Littrell states. "At BRS, we have been very successful in utilizing computerized tools to deliver quality candidates, particularly in the field of government contracting." Littrell and his team of HR professionals use the latest tools to provide BRS clients with top-quality services in locating candidates for their open positions. When recruiting candidates, Littrell seeks high-quality candidates from both the local and national markets and develops a pool of qualified people using several different high-tech methods. An automated Applicant Tracking System centralizes the storage of all electronic applicant information and tracks the data it collects throughout the entire recruitment process. This system helps generate reports necessary to maintain compliance with government regulations and provides immediate insights into candidates for HR administrators. "For the benefit of our clients, our company continually strives to incorporate the most advanced tools available," says Littrell. In addition to offering recruiting services, BRS provides full support in all areas of employment services, benefits administration, and labor reporting. For example, Littrell and his staff often work with clients to create company policies and evaluate benefit plans. "Benefits are a vital recruiting tool in helping companies to attract top-quality employees," states Littrell. Additionally, BRS’ standard HR services to clients include composing offer letters, creating hiring packages, tracking employee performance evaluations and personnel changes, and creating Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action (AAP) plans, as well as maintaining reporting and compliance in those areas. BRS is also able to work with clients to respond to Department of Labor (DOL) audits and other EEO related claims. "BRS is here to help clients with any HR related need that the company may require," adds Littrell. "We really consider ourselves as an always-available extension of our clients’ in-house team." "Most importantly, BRS prides itself in being proactive in its approach to all areas of Human Resource management," Littrell states. "Our goal is to be responsive and responsible to companies in every way, whether they are seeking job candidates, need a benefits plan review, or if they require any other type of HR support." Contact Info:
Knology, well known for its outstanding phone, Internet, and Cable TV services, is also known for its valued customer service. In the Huntsville area, General Manager Jerry Strasser focuses the company’s efforts on valuing its customers. "Knology recognized early on that to gain customers, something had to be different other than products, and that was customer service," Strasser says. "The emphasis we place on customer service is a ‘strategic advantage’ for Knology and we like to use every opportunity to ’wow’ our customers." A recent example of Knology "wowing" its customers was when it increased residential and business Internet speeds by 50 percent and upgraded networks at no extra cost to the customer, a value that customers can appreciate. "We are confident that by increasing the speed of our service without increasing our rates, our customers will continue to enjoy the speed, dependability, and value for which Knology is known," Strasser states. Knology’s business growth and expansion comes from its dedication to a core value system that includes being honest, fair, and evenhanded; delivering what it promises professionally and personally; showing courtesy, respect, and friendliness; working relentlessly as a team; giving customer matters urgent attention; "owning" problems and always being responsive; and being truly easy to do business with. "Our value system is the foundation of the company," Strasser says. "We must provide telecommunication services in line with our value system. This focus on teamwork and customer service drives our business growth." Knology is at the forefront of evolving business communications solutions with its advanced fiber optic network. 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. "Fiber allows clients more flexibility and unlimited opportunities in voice, data, and video communications," Sales Manager Stan Hodges comments. Hodges continues, "Our network is monitored 24/7 to ensure full optimization. Should a problem arise, we strive to resolve it prior to a customer being aware of any service interruption. In addition, our customer care department is readily available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and we have an escalation process put into place for immediate response." Knology also values the Huntsville community and contributes to a variety of local organizations and charities, such as the Huntsville Museum of Art, Huntsville Botanical Gardens, Huntsville Hospital Benefit, Greater Huntsville Humane Society, The Ark, Big Spring Jam, Huntsville Havoc, Tennessee Valley Vipers, Junior Achievement, Kiwanis, Panoply, Huntsville/Madison County Home Builders Association, MWR on Redstone Arsenal, Burritt on the Mountain, and the United Negro College Fund. Additionally, Knology offers advertising on its cable networks, giving the local business community the ability to reach a wide range of customer demographics in an efficient and cost-effective way. As an ongoing effort, Knology continues to explore ways to further enhance its customer experience through new innovative offerings and exhibiting superior customer service. "Every year, we raise the bar higher and higher with the goal of exceeding our customers’ expectations," Strasser comments. Contact Info:
Arrowsight, a web-based application services provider, is a leading developer of remote viewing services and software that allow companies in a variety of industries to optimize process control and performance in manufacturing plants and processing facilities. In business environments, such as food processing, food services, and manufacturing, among others, driving employee best practices is a continuous task. No matter how well an organization manages and complies with rules, regulations, and equipment alarms, there is always variance in the human factor. Improving the effectiveness of labor is a critical and ongoing task that is fundamentally necessary to remain competitive. Arrowsight enables management to evaluate, coach, and train labor in ways that reduce risk and optimize processes. Remote Video Auditing (RVA) from Huntsville-based Arrowsight is a process optimization solution that combines manufacturing expertise, remote video monitoring, live feedback LED screens, and daily and weekly reports so plant managers can more effectively monitor labor performance controls across the plant. "Regardless of the business you are in, all stakeholders strive to optimize operations and provide better services or products to their customers," Chief Executive Officer Adam Aronson says. "Until now, one area in commercial business that has remained virtually untapped is being able to effectively measure labor performance. An industry that has excelled in this area is professional sports where coaches use sophisticated video analytics to measure, assess, and improve player and team performance. Arrowsight applies that same video methodology to business. We provide ‘game video’ to plant managers for operational reviews on a daily and weekly basis." According to Arrowsight President of Manufacturing Mark Moshier, the company has proven the effectiveness of its methodology and technology. An annual 10-to-1 return on investment has been achieved in plants where RVA is currently installed. Critical process proof points are evident in as few as 90 days. Moshier adds, "Arrowsight can be a key success tool for maximizing assets, coaching staff and executing a more effective and profitable business labor game plan." Working closely with clients, Arrowsight auditors monitor key performance indicators within the client’s facility to enhance productivity, safety, quality, and plant efficiency. Daily, weekly, and monthly e-mail scorecard reports are sent to management that quickly identify variances in operating standards. Management teams access these reports through web hyperlinks to video clips and still images that provide visual documentation of events in real time This information can then be used as a continual training tool for staff improvement, improving process awareness, and making adjustments to labor processes in real time. "Through better awareness and discovery, imagination is stimulated by information," Moshier comments. "This tool gives managers the information needed to achieve higher standards of productivity. Improving knowledge, discovery and clarity, also leads to culture change and improves personnel accountability." As an Internet software-based company, Arrowsight recommends hardware, such as video cameras and digital video records that will work best with its systems. The company also manages, designs, and installs the hardware after the client has purchased or leased the equipment directly from the hardware provider. Arrowsight’s RVA also offers a Hot Zones security feature that adds biosecurity safeguards. Hot Zones includes employee background checks, security access restrictions, biometric readers, and web-based video monitoring. RVA with Hot Zones biosecurity protection allows for real-time, 24/7 monitoring of biological, chemical, and physical hazards, whether they are naturally occurring or intentional in a plant’s food safety and security program. In the Quick Service Restaurant industry, Arrowsight’s service improves customer service times by providing live feedback to in-store managers on employee performance. "The live feedback services component, coupled with daily and weekly performance reports ranking individual shift manager performance, has improved customer service time results by 40-50 percent," Moshier states. "Our technology is also being used at leading companies, including Limited Brands and McDonald’s franchises." Arrowsight’s Hospital Video Auditing (HVA) service improves patient safety. HVA features help ensure patient safety compliance, reduces medical errors, decreases risk, improves staff processes, and institutes new patient-safety benchmarks. In addition, the service assists in training staff and caregivers on best practices and instituting new processes. "From hand-hygiene guidelines, central-line safety, alarm response timeliness and ventilator safety protocols to surgical-infection prevention and a host of others, HVA is at every point of care critical to your patients’ well being," Moshier says. "And the service is monitoring facilities daily—not just once a year—so your hospital’s performance is measured with every patient, every day of the year." Arrowsight’s 6,200 square foot facility in Huntsville is the centerpiece of the company’s RVA services. "Our staff includes engineers, process specialists, and economists who work closely with clients to develop applications in their facilities to drive costs down, increase quality, and promote employee welfare," Moshier states. "This facility enables the monitoring of employee operations across a wide range of industries at critical points, 24 hours a day." Arrowsight is excited to be a part of the Huntsville business community and is looking forward to building its base and serving local-area companies in manufacturing, quick-serve restaurants, medical, food processing, automotive, and engineering and defense. Heading up Arrowsight’s Huntsville marketing team is Southeast Regional Sales Director Laurie Houk. Houk is a Huntsville native who brings 20 years of experience from the electronics/manufacturing industry to the company. "From my past experience in the electronics/manufacturing business, I can attest to how powerful Arrowsight’s service can be for our clients," Houk says. Arrowsight’s innovative products can analyze, verify, and train employees to do their job correctly, efficiently, and in a more cost-effective manner. Houk concludes, "With the information provided by Arrowsight, companies can see what’s going on and changes that occur from shift to shift. This real-time data can be used to instruct employees to follow the company’s ‘best practices’ game plan, supporting organizational success." Contact Info:
AdeptMedia Corporation provides clients in a variety of industries such as financial services and manufacturing, with innovative services that transform marketing efforts. Founded in September 2005 by Kathy Bazemore, AdeptMedia focuses on one-to-one marketing technology that mine a company’s business intelligence for strategic communications across online and digital print media. The vision of AdeptMedia is to be recognized for innovation and technology leadership among marketing professionals worldwide, with the basis being its unique technology platform, DeepTarget. In addition, PrintsByMe.com, an AdeptMedia subsidiary, presents a new initiative and service that takes advantage of its in-house digital press. AdeptMedia solutions automate and manage marketing campaigns so businesses can connect to their customers with personalized and targeted marketing, while improving their return on investment. DeepTarget SmartPrint uses intense personalization and rules-based variability to stimulate action-ready response in any industry using direct mail in their marketing efforts. DeepTarget uses electronic banner messaging to market products and services 24/7/365 using an online banking platform. This technology lets professionals market to many, but message to one. AdeptMedia solutions utilize multiple channels like web sites, billing statements, ordering platforms, web applications, e-mail, point-of-purchase displays, and print to communicate consumer-oriented marketing messages. AdeptMedia is currently rolling out its new, expanded distribution strategy for a Value-added Reseller program called VAR Advantage, targeted toward win-win partnerships with marketing agencies, print brokers, and printing companies who can utilize various DeepTarget products for their clients. This program is being rolled out across the United States. DeepTarget merges its precision aim with Xerox’s finest digital printing press, the iGen3, to provide quality on-demand print, deep personalization, and variable print technology that improves direct mail response and increases return on investment. "This print capability is unique for this community," CEO Preetha Pulusani comments. "Taking advantage of a significant asset, the iGen3, AdeptMedia founded a print web site called PrintsByMe.com. The web site uses automation to offer some of the lowest prices in the industry combined with extremely high-quality four-color printing, quick turnarounds, and short-run print orders." With PrintsByMe.com, clients can print an array of corporate identity products, such as business cards, brochures, presentation folders, note cards, self-mailers, postcards, newsletters, and four-color posters. "Many businesses face the challenge of making their communications memorable on a limited budget," Pulusani says. "We are pleased to provide the convenience of this innovative printing venue at very affordable prices." AdeptMedia is a client of BizTech, the Huntsville-based technology incubator. "The company has seen considerable growth in just two years," Pulusani reflects. "It is satisfying to see the results, but we are primed for a lot more work and results in the coming years, as we build upon initial investments and successes." The company’s commitment to innovation is matched by its dedication to provide outstanding customer service and maximize return on investment. On one hand, AdeptMedia’s innovative products help transform any company’s marketing efforts into success. And on the other hand, PrintsByMe.com offers professional printing at online prices 24/7/365 for businesses of any size and located anywhere in the country. Contact Info:
Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp., a leader in the development of spacecraft, sensors, systems, and components for government and commercial customers, planted a tree at the Huntsville Botanical Garden in April of 2007 for two reasons: to symbolically "put down roots" in the community and to announce its pursuit of the NASA Instrument Unit Avionics contract for the Ares I rocket. Bill Townsend, Vice President for Exploration Systems, states, "Ball Aerospace wants to establish a permanent presence in Huntsville to expand business opportunities with current and future customers." David Taylor, president and chief executive officer, adds, "As the Huntsville area continues to grow in importance, it makes sense for us to be closer to our customers in this region." The recently opened office in Huntsville does not, however, make Ball Aerospace a newcomer to this line of business. The company was formed in 1956 and tested its first rocket pointing control two years later under a contract with the U.S. Air Force. Through its relationship with both NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, and the Army’s Redstone Arsenal, technologies provided by Ball Aerospace have contributed to numerous programs and accomplishments. Now a company of approximately 3,000 employees with 2006 sales of $672.3 million, Ball Aerospace is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ball Corporation, the packaging company famous throughout America for Ball canning jars. Since 2002, Ball Aerospace has nearly doubled its sales because of the demand for its core technologies and continued customer confidence. In July 2007, Ball Aerospace won the Large Business Supplier of the Year award from the United Space Alliance (USA), for continually demonstrating outstanding overall performance on USA Space Shuttle requirements. Ball Aerospace launched the first Orbiting Solar Observatory for NASA in 1962. Thirty years later, Ball’s reputation resulted in the company being selected to correct the Hubble Space Telescope’s faulty vision. The company will have more bragging rights after the Hubble servicing mission in 2008, when all seven of the instruments aboard Hubble will be Ball-built. "Approximately half of our business is with the DoD and intelligence agencies and half is in civil space," said Townsend. Ball Aerospace has now bid to become the prime contractor for the Ares I Instrument Unit Avionics. Ares will launch the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle, the spacecraft that will replace the space shuttle after its 2010 retirement. To that effort, Townsend brings more than 40 years of experience in project and program management with NASA. Robert Seto, program manager for the Ares Instrument Unit, contributes 30 years of experience on large development programs for commercial aircraft and space transportation systems, and Chris Crumbly, deputy program manager and formerly with the Marshall Space Flight Center, provides extensive subcontract expertise. Locally, Ball Aerospace continues to "PLAY BALL"! Ball Aerospace recently sponsored the premiere showing of the film, In the Shadow of the Moon at the Space and Rocket Center, and has donated a sponsorship to the Huntsville Association of Technical Societies in support of K-12 Science and Technology Education and Training programs. "We strive for innovation and agility in all our business," Townsend comments. "We bring proven capabilities and experience to the Ares I Instrument Unit Avionics pursuit and believe we’re the right team at the right time. As we take the next giant step forward in returning mankind to the moon, what better place to start the trip back than Huntsville." Contact Info:
SL1 Engineering, founded in 2007 by Steven and Lori Burkett, is blasting into Huntsville with its top-notch architecture and engineering services. Burkett is building SL1 Engineering on a strong foundation of dedication to customers with his solid reputation, integrity, and determination to support each customer to the best of his ability. "I am a results-driven professional who has 10 years of expertise with the U.S. Army and its policies," Burkett states. "With that knowledge in project management, business process modeling, strategic implementation, and process engineering within the DoD, Army, and Joint Communities, SL1 Engineering will be soaring to new heights of excellence." SL1 Engineering specializes in architecture engineering development and analysis by providing products and services to support government and industry needs by identifying requirements and utilizing current architecture products to assess system requirements. The company performs gap analysis and identifies interoperability problems and possible solutions, while supporting engineering development decisions for program acquisition that interface with systems in accordance to Army policy and warfighter requirements. SL1 Engineering develops sound architecture products, which are well documented and can be simulated in the lab and field environments that lead to system material release and fielding. The area in which SL1 Engineering excels is system interoperability. "This area is highly important because in the modular Army right now, systems are going into the field at a high rate," Burkett explains. "We need to verify that these systems will support the soldiers by operating with other systems, that it is safe, and performs as it was designed to work. Because I am familiar with the Army policies, I’m able to help customers implement Army warfighter requirements." What sets Burkett apart is his ability to be resourceful with contacts at all levels to accomplish his customers’ goals. He and his staff, including Director of Government Systems, Louis J. Eyermann in the Orlando office, meet with customers, go over with the company what the needs are, and present ways to help that company achieve these goals and grow. "I pride myself on dedication to the customer," Burkett says. "I’ll go out of my way to make sure my customer’s best interests are met." Burkett has been involved in numerous Army-related organizations and workgroups over his career. In 2006, Burkett received two very significant awards. The first award is the Department of the Army Certificate of Appreciation for being the Key Introductory Briefer, which was presented to him by Michael E. Williamson Colonel, Air Defense Project Manager, Future Combat Systems (FCS). Burkett is proud to have received this accolade after working diligently to brief a conference on the Department of Defense Architecture Framework to the FSCS program. The second award was a service award for dedication to Communications Electronics Research Development Engineering Center (CERDEC) HQS Architecture and Systems Engineering Office. With its solid foundation, SL1 Engineering is set to blast off in Huntsville. "I’m excited that SL1 Engineering has this opportunity to provide the Huntsville community with our services," says Burkett. Contact Info:
Corr Wireless*
Posted 8/17/07
What your cell phone can do for you today is amazing. And Corr Wireless has all the phones! Not only can you make calls, send text
messages, and surf the net for your favorite web sites, you can also get
your local weather, check out what is playing at the movies and more. Smart
Phones will push your e-mail to your phone so that you are instantly updated
on incoming messages. For business or personal use, phones and service from Corr Wireless is a great way to stay in touch. Corr Wireless has featured two phones in their ad. The
HTC DASH with the Data – Talk – Text plan is available starting at just
$79.99 per month. Also featured is the Sony Ericsson W300i WALKMAN music
phone with an FM radio and download capability for your music or radio
listening pleasure. The best feature of owning a Corr Wireless phone is the
customer service that goes along with your purchase. All salespeople are
trained to use these phones and most of their salespeople own and use one of
the Smart Phones themselves. Whether your goal is to carry a Personal
Computer in your pocket or just to make a call, Corr Wireless has the plan
and the phone that is right for you. You may visit the Corr Wireless web site or stop by any
of their 20 locations for more information on Smart Phones and Corr’s
complete line of phones. Test drive a phone today! Check out service from
their towers and be certain their service works for you. Corr Wireless, now
you’re talkin’ sense. Contact Info:
B.G. Smith & Associates, Inc. (BGS), a leading systems, solutions, and technical company, is proud to announce that Dr. Paul Munafo has joined its team as vice president of engineering services. Dr. Munafo will direct BGS’s growing aerospace engineering business. Munafo brings a tremendous amount of expertise and skill to the BGS staff. Previously, Dr. Munafo served as Chief Engineer in the Chief Engineer’s Office at NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) from December 2005 to June 2007. Also, Dr. Munafo was manager of the Materials, Processes and Manufacturing Department at MSFC and under his leadership the department achieved a national reputation for the analysis and resolution of hardware problems in human space flight systems. Among his major accomplishments, Dr. Munafo acted as the sole representative of NASA to the European Space Agency I. As such, he incorporated the principles of fracture control to the project, and thereby enabled the safe deployment of the Spacelab. Additionally, he developed a methodology for assuring the flight worthiness of the Hubble Space Telescope’s composite structures. And, Dr. Munafo advanced the technology of two new stress corrosion resistant alloys from the test tube stage to the point that they were used in major flight systems. He also led development of aluminum lithium technology, including the detailed welding procedures that enable the use of that material in the Space Shuttle’s super lightweight external tank. Dr. Munafo has authored dozens of technical papers and received more than 40 NASA awards at the individual and team levels, including a Presidential Rank Award, Distinguished Service Medal, and Outstanding Leadership Medal. BGS founder Bill Smith states, "We are excited to have Dr. Munafo on our team. His experience will further position BGS in the aerospace and defense marketplace. With Dr. Munafo’s addition to the BGS staff, we pledge to continue to provide distinctive, quality work and unparalleled customer service. Contact Info:
Our Team Puts Customers FIRST! The belief that the customer comes first is at the foundation of Clark Associates and its team members. Since 1966, Clark Associates has demonstrated this high level of quality and now serves customers in Alabama, Northwest Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee. The equipment offered includes Xerox wide format digital systems and engineering copiers, plotters, and scanners. Clark Associates also offers used and refurbished machines, as well as the new Xerox equipment that can be purchased or leased. Founder and Senior Associate Warren Clark’s admiration for his team members is very evident when he says, "A necessity for any company’s success is attitude. We have been extremely fortunate over the years in building a team in which each member maintains a strong, helpful and cooperative attitude." Four spotlighted team members in this issue are William Cody, Sonia Senyeri, Bryant Harris and James Wilson. Cody, Sales Manager and Systems Analyst, provides a competent and timely response to customers. "Recently, while William Cody was in south Alabama, I received a call from a client that urgently needed complex information," Clark states. "I contacted William and he provided the client with the requested data via laptop almost instantly." Sonia Senyeri, Communicator and Dispatcher, controls the inventory, dispatches service technicians and manages customer care. "She is on the front line with customers and is extremely capable in all areas she handles," Clark comments. Bryant Harris is the CAD/CAM Department Manager. Clark says, "We have frequently found Mr. Harris’ advice and suggestions invaluable. He also brings many years of IT experience to the company, as well as his many years of CAD-CAM management." James O. Wilson has many responsibilities that include customer service, product set-up and demonstrations. "His immediate response to any need is the epitome of the company’s ‘Do It Now!’ slogan," Clark exclaims. Contact info:
Since 1991, Technical Maintenance, Inc. (TMI) has focused its mission on providing top-notch technical services in the areas of calibration and the repair of test and measurement equipment, both in its laboratory and at client sites. The four main areas on which the company focuses are electronic, sonet, physical/dimensional, and fiber optic capabilities. TMI serves the automotive and aviation industries, as well as manufacturers, service companies, medical firms, and defense contractors. Owner Mike Floyd founded TMI after he recognized a need for a calibration company that catered to the needs of manufacturing and services companies with the advent of ISO 9000. In June 1997, TMI opened its facility in the Tennessee Valley. "Our goal was to grow TMI into the best Calibration Lab in the Southeast and I’m confident that we have accomplished this goal," Floyd states. "There are no other labs in the Southeast that have more capabilities in the calibration field than TMI." TMI’s dedication to excellence is reflected in the company mission statement: TMI has made a commitment to achieve excellent laboratory practices through continuous improvement of the entire system, competence of its technicians, continuous training of all its employees, and by providing the best customer service possible. "The one thing that sets us apart from our competitors is our commitment to customer service," Floyd comments. "TMI’s customer policy is to just say ‘YES’. This means that if a customer asks us to do something that we can do, we say, ‘Yes, we can’ and then actually do it." TMI is accredited to ISO/IEC 17025-2005 for technical competence in the field of calibration and is also registered to ISO 9001:2000. TMI services more than 1,300 clients in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama. The company houses four labs throughout the Southeast and also has technicians working full time at three customer sites. "TMI employs highly trained technicians (almost all of whom are U.S. Air Force PMEL Certified) to provide excellent and dedicated customer service," Sales Manager Renae Coley states. Contact Info:
Myers Technical Services LLC (Myers Tech) is an information systems and management consulting firm specializing in the systems and tools that organizations use to collect, manage, document, analyze and report key business data. Sharon A. Myers, owner of Myers Tech, is dedicated to helping her customers improve business performance, increase productivity, and maintain quality standards. Myers is Huntsville born and educated with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Alabama A&M University and a Master’s degree in Management focused on technological environments from the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Her professional experience includes software engineering, knowledge management, marketing/business development, and quality management. "I have a passion for solving problems and making improvements," she says. "My team is made up of business analysts, application developers, technical writers, and quality specialists who share that passion." Myers Tech offers evaluation, integration, customization, user support, and training for a variety of business software applications, particularly customer relationship management, business process management, and business intelligence systems. "Often, a client thinks new technology will solve everything," Myers explains. "But new software will not fix poor and/or undocumented business processes." Myers Tech also develops documentation and training programs for product development projects and quality management systems, such as ISO 9001:2000 and CMMI. Recently, the Women’s Business Center of North Alabama recognized Myers Tech as the 2007 Small Business Start-up of the Year. Myers believes the secret to the company’s success will be in its ability to understand each customer’s unique business and technology challenge, then to collaborate to deliver a value-added solution. "We want to work with our customers and not just for them," Myers says. "At Myers Tech our goal is to provide seamless support and responsive solutions." Contact Info: Joint Integrated Air & Missile Defense Honors Corporate Sponsors with Luncheon In appreciation for a successful Joint Integrated Air & Missile Defense (JIAMD) Summit, a luncheon was held on May 23rd to honor the corporate sponsors for their financial, logistical, and administrative support. The participation from these sponsors played a key role in broadening the Tennessee Valley technical community’s influence into the national defense effort of joint and integrated air and missile defense systems. To kick off the luncheon, James "Raleigh" Durham, Director of Joint Advanced Concepts, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics (OUSD/AT&L), opened with remarks and an introduction of the featured speaker, Katrina Wahl, Deputy for Acquisition Management Missile Defense Agency. Wahl has more than 20 years of experience in civil service. Currently, she develops acquisition and contracting policy and processes for the agency’s procurements, develops direction and guidance for the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS), assesses performance by program managers against direction, and provides assistance to comply with direction and guidance. She also acts as the Missile Defense Acquisition Executive decision authority as directed by the MDA Director. Wahl’s presentation focused on the success of joint and integrated missile and defense systems, enemy threats, and where the United States is going in the future. "We’ve entered a new area, an era of threat," Wahl states. "We are going forward with an unprecedented fielding of equipment and support for integrated, advanced capabilities against these threats." After the presentation, Durham and Major General Larry New presented the sponsors with corporate recognition awards. Who’s Who in Huntsville Technology Magazine was on hand to accept its award for its participation in support of the 2007 JIAMD Summit. Closing remarks were given by Lonnie Poling, Chairman of the JIAMD Summit, who commented on the success of the JIAMD Summit that was held earlier in March. This year’s theme was "Addressing the Issues – Uniting the Team" and had participants from the military, government, industry, and academia in attendance. The subject matter discussed included significant classified issues relating to gaps in our present JIAMD system capabilities that threaten the security of our homeland and our deployed forces overseas. The JIAMD Summit continues to establish 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). Contact Info:
As Garrison Commander of Redstone Arsenal, Colonel John Olshefski notes that all of the Tennessee Valley is the family of Team Redstone. Olshefski, the "unofficial mayor", says this because many people from the Tennessee Valley come to work on Redstone in support of the United States warfighters. Olshefski’s responsibilities include running the "city of Redstone". This work involves maintenance on buildings, building construction oversight (such as the $403 million of construction to support base realignment and closure relocations), operating an airfield, providing recreational opportunities (i.e. swimming pools, golf course, ball fields, fitness centers, bowling center, and clubs), and maintaining and upgrading utilities. In addition, Olshefski’s staff must provide a high level of security for those who live and work on the Arsenal. To do this day-to-day work, Olshefski has more than 2,000 garrison employees. "My team is comprised of mostly government civilians, contractors, and some soldiers," Olshefski says. "And they do an outstanding job!" Redstone has a dramatic impact on the Tennessee Valley family, since it employs nearly 30,000 area individuals with approximately $2.3 billion in annual salaries. Also, more than 236,000 people living within 80 miles of the post use its facilities and services. Every organization that operates on Redstone, such as Marshall Space Flight Center, Missile Defense Agency, Aviation and Missile Life Cycle Management Command, Program Executive Offices for Missiles and Space and for Aviation, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command, Ordnance, Munitions and Electronics Maintenance School, Aviation and Missile Research, Development & Engineering Center, and the Missile and Space Intelligence Center contribute its efforts to providing for the Tennessee Valley family. What Olshefski finds astounding is the support the Tennessee Valley family gives back to Redstone Arsenal and the U.S. military community. "Our linkage—our support—here on Redstone is so important to this war effort," says Olshefski. An example of this support is to the Army Emergency Relief Fund. This fund helps Army personnel in need and has raised almost a quarter of a million dollars this year. At the end of the day, it’s all about family for Olshefski and Team Redstone. "Who’s your Family?" he asks. "It’s Team Redstone. Who’s Team Redstone? It’s the Tennessee Valley…Florence, Lincoln and Giles counties, Scottsboro, Cullman, Guntersville, and everything in between." Contact Info: The Huntsville Association of Technical Societies (HATS) honored 16 recipients at its annual Professionals of the Year (POY) Awards Dinner on Thursday, June 28, 2007 at the Holiday Inn Downtown. The Huntsville Association of Technical Societies was founded June 17, 1969 as a nonprofit 501(c) (3) organization comprised of technical and professional societies dedicated to the advancement of science and engineering. Its mission is to help coordinate the professional, educational, and civic activities of Member organizations and to promote common goals, particularly those that can best be performed by cooperative action. HATS sponsored technical and business exhibitions and symposia (TABES and TEAMS) during the period 1985-2005. These served the local business and technical communities by providing a forum for displaying their products and talents to the international community. Since 1988, the HATS STEDTRAIN Seed Grant Program has provided 240 individual grants and over $250,000 to K-12 programs for learning activities, such as hands-on science projects. This year, 16 professionals were nominated and selected for the HATS POY Award by their Member organizations for outstanding contributions toward the mission of their awarding organization. Because the professional activities of these professionals have resulted in broad social, technological, and/or economical consequences benefiting the science and engineering community, it is fitting that their hard work has been recognized. Their extraordinary dedication, creativity, and leadership will be an inspiration to all. The 2007 Professionals of the Year
Left to Right: Jeffery Delmas, Von Braun Astronomical Society (VBAS), John Young, Huntsville Association of Technical Societies (HATS), Michael Barefield, National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), Keith Jadus, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Larry Bradford, Alabama Solar Association (ASA), Deborah Fraley, Joint Integrated Air and Missile Defense (JIAMD) Summit Working Group, Dr. William (Bill) Craig, the 2006 Recipient of the HATS Joseph C. Moquin Award, Thomas Hancock, AIAA POY and also the 2007 Recipient of the HATS Joseph C. Moquin Award, Mr. Joseph C. Moquin, Lisa Galentine, Program Management Institute (PMI), Sandra Pape, Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA), Lisa Gilbert, Women in Defense (WID), Stacy Houk, Society of Cost Estimating & Analysis (SCEA),Jerry Gabig, National Contract Management Association (NCMA), Staff Sergeant James P. Horrocks, Association of the United States Army (AUSA), Susan Cantrell, System Safety Society (SSS), Ancil Hicks, Huntsville Aerospace Marketing Association (HAMA) No Photo: Mike Murphy, Society of Logistics Engineers The 2007 Joseph C. Moquin Award, named for one of Huntsville’s most outstanding technical and business leaders throughout the past 50 years, was presented to Thomas M. Hancock of the American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics in recognition for his extraordinary technical contribution to the North Alabama technical community. This award is selected each year from among the Professional of the Year honorees.
Left to Right: Dr. William (Bill) Craig, Thomas Hancock, Joseph C. Moquin, The special guest speaker, Mr. Richard Stocks, Founder and CEO of Gold Leaf Corporation, Preservationists of the Artifacts from the Statue of Liberty and of Ellis Island gave the presentation "What does Freedom and Liberty have to do with Science and Technology?" concerning his company’s activities to carry the spirit of liberty and freedom throughout the world, and what liberty and freedom means to science and technology.
Left to Right: Richard Stocks, POY guest speaker, Dr. William (Bill) Craig, the 2006 Recipient of the HATS Joseph C. Moquin Award, Thomas Hancock, AIAA POY and also the 2007 Recipient of the HATS Joseph C. Moquin Award, Joseph C. Moquin, Joe Fitzgerald, 2007 POY emcee, past HATS President and POY emcee, and twice POY recipient. Contact Info: 2007 Space and Missile Defense Conference and Exhibition (NP)* Posted 10/4/07
SMD Conference Completes its Tenth Successful Exhibition The Space and Missile Defense Conference and Exhibition took place Aug. 13-16 at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville. The conference, in its tenth annual celebration, had a theme this year of "Celebrating 50 Years of Space and Missile Defense". The conference included military, government, academia, and industry presenters who provided the latest information in the areas of global ballistic missile defense system development and operation, as well as integration, synchronization, and capability development to meet new threats. Sessions also covered space support to the warfighter, homeland defense, and the integration of cruise missile defense. Notable speakers included Gen. Kevin P. Chilton, commander, Air Force Space Command; Lt. Gen. Henry A. "Trey" Obering III, director, Missile Defense Agency; LTG Kevin T. Campbell, commanding general, SMDC/ARSTRAT; Lt. Gen. Michael A. Hamel, commander, Space and Missile Systems Center, Air Force Space Command; Lt. Gen. William Webster, deputy commander, U.S. Northern Command; Lt. Gen. Bob Kehler, deputy commander, U.S. Strategic Command; Lt. Gen. (R ) Ed Anderson, former vice commander of NORAD; Lt. Gen. (R) James A. Abrahamson, first director of the Strategic Defense Initiative Organization; Lt. Gen. (R) Thomas Stafford, former astronaut; and Ambassador Robert Joseph, former Under Secretary of State. Besides the line-up of impressive presentations, the SMD Conference offered an extensive amount of exhibits and displays. There were more than 220 exhibits in the conference halls, coupled with nearly 2,400 exhibitors working those booths. For 2007, the recorded attendance was almost 1,200 attendees, with a third of them registering from out of state. There were also another 2,800 walk-in visitors, more than double the number of general public visitors than in years past. There were members of the press present from local, national, and international publications. This year definitely marked a record high of total participants onsite, which is a great sign of the growth and importance of the space and missile defense community to a variety of audiences. Besides the regular speaker presentations and exhibits, there was also an innovative idea that correlated with the 50 th Anniversary Celebration theme. A historical trek and a technology trek were available in which attendees could participate, sending them on a scavenger hunt to search for different answers from a variety of exhibitors. In addition to those treks, there was a School Day on Thursday, August 16. Approximately 200 students in seventh and eighth grade from six different area schools participated in the exhibit tour provided to encourage their interest in science and technology studies. The students met a real "Army Hero," onsite to sign an action figure designed in his likeness and share stories about being a Soldier. There was an area that contained the America’s Army video game, one of the top 10 computer interactive games and an amazing simulation experience.The 2008 SMD Conference is scheduled for Aug. 12-15, 2008. If you are interested in exhibiting in 2008, please contact Catherine Boykin. Additional information for the 2008 event will be added to the web site as next year’s conference draws closer. Contact Info:
Bill Gates and leaders of many of our technology-based companies have deplored the lack of student interest in science and engineering careers. America’s competitive edge in the global economy lies in its ability to produce technological discovery. The time to engage student interest is in K–12, during their formative learning years. The STEDTRAIN Committee of the Huntsville Association of Technical Societies (HATS) has been addressing this problem since 1988. Each year for the last 20 years, this committee has solicited and evaluated innovative science-based proposals from K-12 teachers in North Alabama, evaluated them, solicited local funding, monitored their progress, and offered assistance and counsel to the teachers. In this period, 210 projects such as Connecting with Math and Science in the Second Grade, Creating Lego Mindstorm Robots, and Forensic Studies, benefiting an estimated 8,000 students directly and about 15,000 indirectly, and amounting to over $201,000 were funded.The results of these investments are revealing. Teacher and student testimonials indicate that the STEDTRAIN Seed Grant program is generating amazing results in schools across the area. Local donors not only help the development of children’s education, but they also, in essence, help the community by increasing the character and skills of the future leaders and workforce that will help ensure north Alabama’s future prosperity. And while technical professionals address a community education problem, donors help to enhance the spirit of cooperation and teamwork that is so vital to innovation and entrepreneurship. HATS is a registered 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, and donations to the STEDTRAIN program are tax-deductible. Donors are recognized through the HATS web site, STEDTRAIN conferences and programs, and local media such as the Huntsville Times and this popular Who’s Who publication. Donations for 2007 and the coming 2008-2009 school season are now being solicited. Everyone can help drive technology education deeper into the fabric of our community. Contact Info: The Redstone-Huntsville Chapter, Association of the United States Army (AUSA) was designated best Overall Chapter AUSA for 2007, as it was in 2004, 2005, and 2006. This award and numerous others will be presented at the 2007 AUSA Annual meeting in Washington, DC, October 8-10, 2007. Chapter members attending will participate in educational and professional development activities. The Chapter will host Team Redstone’s Soldier and NCO of the Year as part of its delegation, and sponsor a HOOAAH tent at the Army Ten Miler to cheer on Team Redstone’s two running teams. On October 25, the Heritage Club will host a "Welcome Home" to celebrate Chapter achievements that will be open to current and prospective members. The Redstone-Huntsville Chapter furthers the aims and objectives of AUSA with a range of programs that promote the Army and support Soldiers (Active, Army Reserve, and Army National Guard), their families and Department of the Army Civilians (DAC), veterans and retirees. The Chapter region includes counties in Tennessee and northern Alabama including the cities of Huntsville, Birmingham, Florence (University of North Alabama Sub-Chapter), Montgomery, and Anniston (Sub-Chapter lead by MG [Ret] Gerald Watson). Chapter membership exceeds 2,600 individual members and 250 corporate members. Recent Chapter events included the Team Redstone Army Birthday celebration, the Tactical Missiles Conference, the DAC of the Year Dinner, participation in Junior and Senior ROTC Award ceremonies, "Welcome Home" ceremonies for Soldiers and units returning from deployments, sports event sponsorships providing free tickets to Soldiers and their families, and the second annual Ordway Award recognizing the best First Sergeants (Active, Reserve & National Guard) in the Chapter area. Planned events include Redstone Arsenal Retiree Day activities, Veterans Day Dinner and Parade Sponsorship, and continued support to Soldier and Non-Commissioned Officer recognition ceremonies. Contact info:
They are proactively committed to long term career development and life skills support for severely wounded veterans and their families. While their primary focus is on the severely wounded veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, ALL veterans (WWII, Korean, Vietnam, peacetime, etc.) are welcome and no veteran is every turned away. Still Serving Veterans offers a unique, holistic support services approach to job training, education, career transition, and counseling, as well as coordination with relevant government (e.g. Veterans’ Administration), public and private organizations. They strive to optimize post-military career opportunities for veterans and their families by facilitating and promoting personal and professional development to maximize employment opportunities and community opportunities in conjunction with local business/community associations. They recently offered, in collaboration with other Huntsville agencies and businesses, a "Vet’s to Work" day. This activity was designed to help the attending veterans with résumé writing, education seminars, and practice interviews with many of Huntsville’s business leaders and human resources personnel. This event was so successful that others are being planned for the near future. This year’s annual golf tournament will be held on October 5, 2007 at Cherokee Ridge. If you want to play, call us soon because space is limited. Still Serving Veterans is a designated Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) Agency. Their CFC # is 12606 and your contributions are tax deductible. Contact Info:
The field of biotechnology, particularly as it relates to genomics and DNA-based discoveries, has grown exponentially over the past 15 years. "We are on the threshold of a world where biotechnology influences daily decisions about foods we eat, energy we use, ways we monitor the world, and choices about health and well-being," said Dr. Neil Lamb, director of education and outreach for the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology. To responsibly evaluate these choices, noted Lamb, "We need a society that is well educated about DNA, the role of genetics in disease, and the impact of biotechnology on agriculture and the environment." Lamb is busy brainstorming, assembling, and nurturing strategic partnerships to address learning opportunities for "pre-K to gray" audiences. Under his guidance, HudsonAlpha is sponsoring and developing a number of programs geared to raise public awareness of biotechnology, including lectures, seminars, hands-on workshops, museum exhibits, and audio and video podcasts. Lamb is also working with community and technical colleges, as well as university faculty and staff, to provide meaningful opportunities that prepare students for biotech careers. Just before the new school year began, Dr. Lamb and seventh-grade science teacher Becky McCoy from Stevenson Middle School, created and presented a training session for leaders from the Alabama Department of Education, and a group primarily comprised of North Alabama teachers who will pilot a seventh-grade genetics module through the Alabama Math, Science and Technology Initiative (AMSTI). The module incorporates hands-on lab techniques and state curriculum requirements to give students a deeper understanding of what genetics entails. By reaching out to Alabama educators, institute staff can effectively and efficiently touch thousands of Alabama students. "I see HudsonAlpha not only as a key driver of technologies and tools that improve quality of life, but also as a guide to understanding them," added Lamb. Improving human health, stimulating economic development and inspiring youth to seek careers in science are chief goals of the HudsonAlpha Institute." Contact Info:
One of the biggest challenges facing defense programs is the management and transition of technologies into military systems. The government accountability office (GAO) has warned that the Department of Defense (DOD) should do a better job of managing the technology transition (TT) process. GAO found that programs entering the System Development and Demonstration (SDD) phase with immature technologies experienced an average of 41% cost growth and 13 months in schedule delays. In response to these findings, several organizations developed processes and tools to provide management insight and systems engineering rigors to the TT process. Also, in 2007, DAU appointed Ms. Diane P. Williams as the Director for the newly established Technology Transition Learning Center of Excellence (TT LCOE), to provide focused management on this critical area. Its mission is to identify technology related best practices and management tools to facilitate the transition of technologies from the laboratory to acquisition programs to the warfighters. These practices are folded into the AT&L knowledge sharing systems, online courses, and the science and technology (S&T) management courses available at www.dau.mil. An initial set of strategic technology management tools was identified and briefed to the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense (Advanced Systems and Concepts), Mr. John Kubricky, on August 29, 2007. Also in attendance was Ms. Kathleen Harger, the Assistance DUSD (Innovation and Technology Transition), Dr. Mike McGrath of the Office of Naval Research (ONR), and several representatives from the Army and Department of Homeland Security. Further market research will be conducted to identify other best practices and tools across the military services, NASA, industry, and others. The technology tools demonstrated on August 29 were developed in response to the GAO findings, and the increased need for technology management tools. Technology is advancing at an ever increasing rate, and with the stretched DOD budgets, it is imperative that DOD does a better job of prioritizing technology investments, managing technology maturity, and integrating technology and program management. Together, the three tools which were briefed provide these capabilities. Dr. Daniel Schrage briefed Georgia Tech’s Strategic Prioritization and Planning (SP2) model, Dr. Suzy Young briefed the Aviation and Missile Research, Development, & Engineering Center’s (AMRDEC) Technology Assessment and Transition Management (TATM) process, and Mr. Jeff Craver briefed the Space and Missile Defense Command’s Technology Program Management Model (TPMM). DAU is proud to be involved with the collaboration of these organizations, which began in 2003. Ms. Angela Roden, SAIC’s TATM Project Manager, said, "We are excited to be working with DAU on new methods for improving the technology transition process." Mr. Richard Sykes of DAU drafted a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) between Georgia Tech and AMRDEC to integrate their tools for a more robust capability. In addition, TPMM provides a structured framework for assessing and maturing S&T projects through the various Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs), which provides additional capability. Technology Transition Agreements are another key outcome of the TATM and TPMM models. Contact Info: Technology Transition...Bridging the Gap From Laboratory to Program Technology programs and projects must be carefully managed to ensure that technologies are delivered to the customer within the time and budget constraints and that they provide increased capabilities to meet the needs of the warfighter. To accomplish this, a logical methodology is needed to support Technology Managers (TM) through the planning and development of their projects. The TPMM V2 provides that methodology. Developed by USASMDC Technical Center, the TPMM provides its users a standardized approach to technology development using a systems engineerin |
WestWind Technologies, Inc. (WTI) is truly a Huntsville
hometown success story. WTI, locally owned and operated, has grown from a
small group of visionaries to over 400 employees, including more than 125
degreed professionals in engineering, logistics, business, and other
disciplines.
Part of WTI’s ability to react quickly is the strategic
placement of its campus where response time to customers can be measured
literally in minutes. WestWind has over 227,000 square feet of manufacturing
and support facilities in the JetPlex Industrial Park. An additional 80,000
square foot hangar is under development at the
Huntsville International Airport.
WTI’s customers
include the Program Executive Officer (PEO)
for Army Aviation located on Redstone Arsenal. WTI supports PEO Army
programs for the Scout/Attack Helicopter, the AH-64 Apache, the Blackhawk
Utility Helicopter, and PM Aviation Systems. In addition, PM Air Warrior and
PD Aircraft Survivability Equipment programs are a priority for "Team WestWind".
Making a Point of Precision
Modification
Facility Nears Completion at Albertville Airport
SAIC Teams with DAU for Technology Transition
From the Ground Up to Space in One Generation
The Knology® Value
Analyze, Verify, and Train
Where Innovation Transforms Marketing
Integrating
into the Huntsville Community
Blasting Into Huntsville with Architecture and Engineering Services
Smart Phones & Music Phones from Corr Wireless
Dr. Paul Munafo Joins Team
Supporting
Clients with Superior Calibration and Repair of Test and Measurement
Equipment Services
Optimizing People, Processes, and Technology
All of the Tennessee Valley is the Family of Team
Redstone
HATS STEDTRAIN Program Helping K-12 Science Education in Our Area
Education and Outreach Programs
Technology Transition – Bridging the Gap from Laboratory to Program