| | UAH adds modeling, simulation focus; creates new center and hires director(8/9/2005)Rapid growth of the modeling and simulation industry has resulted in the creation of a new research center at The University of Alabama in Huntsville and the recruitment of a new scientist. Dr. Mikel Petty, former chief scientist at the Virginia Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Center at Old Dominion University, has joined UAH to lead the university's efforts at supporting the modeling and simulation industry in Alabama, university officials announced today. "The opportunity to leverage this position into a sustained economic advantage for Alabama is great," said Dr. Ron Greenwood, UAH Vice President for Research. "Huntsville is already a leader worldwide in modeling and simulation technology, education, workforce development, application, and industrial development. We need to add M&S information technology to the list of those few qualities that distinguish Alabama in its efforts to compete in economic development in the 21st century." The UAH Center for Modeling, Simulation and Analysis was approved last year by the University of Alabama System's Board of Trustees, and the university began searching for a top-notch researcher to focus its efforts and to support the industry. Dr. Petty said his desire to move to Huntsville was two-fold — personal ambition and Huntsville's background in M&S technologies. "The idea of starting a new research center for modeling and simulation intrigued me tremendously," he said. "I had learned quite a bit working at centers at Old Dominion and at the University of Central Florida, and I plan to apply that knowledge at UAH. So, from a personal and professional standpoint, I am looking forward to that challenge." He said Huntsville is home to a number of important organizations in the modeling and simulation world, but the area lacks exposure outside the local community. "There is a tremendous body of modeling and simulation competence in this area, and I have been favorably impressed by the work that is being done here. I had developed relationships with people in Huntsville over the years, so I was familiar with some of the activities taking place, Now, I hope to leverage and exploit those opportunities that exist." Bill Waite, president of AEgis Technologies Group, is a leading industry proponent, and serves as executive director of the Alabama Modeling & Simulation Council. He said the modeling and simulation industry in Alabama has shown rapid growth with 30 new companies and 60 percent growth during the past decade. Most of that growth today, according to the council's survey, is concentrated in Madison County. "The survey correctly shows considerable M&S competency and activity in Madison County," Waite said. "This is commensurate with the richness and concentration of M&S in the Huntsville area, mostly in support of defense and aerospace." Dr. Petty has worked in modeling and simulation research and development since 1990 and has published more than 120 research papers. He has been responsible for more than $11 million in research funding. Old Dominion's M&S center grew from $1.5 million in annual research revenues in 1999 to more than $10 million this year. Dr. Petty is quick to note that many people contributed to that growth. However, he hopes to see similar results at UAH, and will spend his first few weeks recruiting research scientists for the new center. (UAH) For more information: Ray Garner, (256)UAH-NEWS |
| | Email Story | Send Comment Digg  Share on Facebook
 Delicious
|