Strategic Goals/Objectives
a Living Document as of: 31 December 2012
Note: NCS has recruited 61 new Members since 1 Jan 2012. At present,
NCS has a total of 210 Member Companies/Organizations/Individuals.
The makeup of the Membership is as follows:
MS&T Company
Government/Academia/Not-for-profit
Non-MS&T Company
Practitioners
Students
Total
104
28
44
23
11
210
Objective 1—Expand M&S Technology & Applications
- Support knowledge transfer
- Support collaboration
- Support diversification
9 Jan, as follow-up to a discussion with Aneesh Chopra, Chief Technology
Officer in the White House, Randy Berridge, FHTCC orchestrated a conference
call with a number of business/academic leaders in Central Florida. The
following joined the call:
Aneesh Chopra, White House
Randy Berridge, FHTCC
Jim Craig, Lockheed Martin
Jim Jardon, JHT & Medical Curriculum Technologies
Daryl Holt, EA Sports
Dr. Tom O’Neal, UCF/Incubator
Ed Schons, UCF
Dr, Randy Shumaker, UCF/IST
Lt Gen (Ret) Tom Baptiste, NCS
Tina Lucas, USF
Carla Hoskins, NCS
Sridhar Kota, OSTP
The purpose of the call was to explore the possibility of implementing in
Central Florida a program patterned after a successful initiative underway in
the Midwest that leverages M&S Technologies from big companies to improve
the productivity of small and mid-size companies in their manufacturing
supply chain. Sridhar Kota has offered to share contact information of key
individuals involved in the Midwest initiative. Randy Berridge has offered to
invite them to Orlando (at FHTCC expense) prior to the end of Feb to learn
first-hand of their efforts and plans for the future.
12 Jan, NCS has agreed to provide in-kind outreach and marketing support to
the 2012 MT3 Conference in exchange for recognition as an event sponsor.
13-16 Jan, OTRONICON Interactive Technology Event returned to the Orlando
Science Center for Year Seven. NCS served as an event sponsor and continues
to serve on the Advisory Council.
24 Feb, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Diana Boyce and Pat Bornstein, Florida
Hospital Foundation. The possibility of Gen (Ret) Baptiste possibly serving on
the Florida Hospital Foundation Board of Directors was raised in advance of
the luncheon but did not come up in the discussion.
6 Mar, NCS hosted an event with Industry featuring Dr. Thad Seymour, Vice
President Life Sciences at Lake Nona. The focus of the event was an update on
the status of construction/development of the Medical City at Lake Nona.
28-30 Mar, GameTech 2012 was a resounding success with participation up
nearly 30% over 2011. Hosted by NCS for the first time this year, the
conference aims to expand the use of serious games, virtual world technologies
and mobile applications to meet the training and education requirements of
our war fighters. A website devoted to the GameTech 2012 Conference is at
http://www.gametechconference.com.
Below is a comparison of GameTech 2011 and GameTech 2012:
2011—total registrations 599
2012—total registrations 780
Exhibits—27 sold
Exhibitors—138
Full Conference—376
Wednesday Only—53
Thursday Only—23
Friday Only—4
Volunteers—4
Media—5
Exhibits—34 sold
Exibitors—276
Full Conference—535
Wednesday Only—31
Thursday Only—18
Friday Only—2
Volunteers—58+
Media—9
14 Jun, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste attended a community leader gathering focused
on the Impact of Florida Hospital East on East Orlando and pending plans for
significant expansion of their in-patient and emergency care facilities.
20 Jul, NCS has joined Florida Hospital’s Nicholson Center for Surgical
Advancement (NCSA), UCF/IST, and USF’s Center for Advanced Medical
Learning & Simulation (CAMLS) in a white paper proposal to the FHTCC. The
idea is to create a formal organization of key stakeholders across the FHTC that
have expertise and interest in advanced medical education, simulation and
training in order to accelerate Central Florida’s agenda of becoming a leader in
the research, development and transition of these technologies into the medical
field. This is basically a continuation of what was begun with the FLASH
initiative and leverages the strengths of organizations across the FHTC. If this
gains any traction I will provide more detailed information at a future BOD
Meeting.
14 Aug, planning for GameTech 2013 officially began with an ExCom Meeting
designed to develop strategic direction & guidance to inform the first plenary
planning session scheduled for 16 Aug.
18 Sep, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented NCS and the MS&T Industry at a
joint Board of Directors Meeting for the Metro Orlando EDC, Central Florida
Partnership and Visit Orlando. The event was hosted by Florida Hospital at
their downtown Orlando Campus. Florida Hospital used the event to roll out
plans to build three new facilities dedicated to Women’s Health at the
Downtown Orlando Campus, Celebration Health and Winter Park Hospital.
They also celebrated the first ever successful bilateral lung transplant and
confirmed the patient is doing well.
Oct 16, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste was invited to attend the Impact of Celebration
Health Assessment and Orlando Magic Tour at the Amway Center.
Oct 18, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste participated in a UCF/IST “Simulation
Laboratories Showcase” focused on cutting edge R&D aimed at advancing the
state-of-the-art of modeling & simulation.
22 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste, George Cheros and Dr. Randy Shumaker,
UCF/IST, visited the Center for Advanced Medical Learning and Simulation
(CAMLS) in Tampa. An extension of USF, the center is dedicated to medical
simulation and education. The purpose of the visit was to advance the
possibility of regional cooperation between CAMLS, UCF/IST and the MS&T
Industry cluster centered in Orlando’s Research Park. NCS again offered to
host an event with Industry that would feature what CAMLS is doing to
advance the state-of-the-art of medical simulation and training. The target
date would be early 2013.
24 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Gaming Department leadership at
FullSail University. In addition to learning more about their programs, the visit
provided an opportunity to explore ways in which FullSail could get more
involved in GameTech 2013.
Objective 2—Support M&S Education, Awareness & Public Policy
Development
- Support education/academic programs
- Communication & outreach
- Participate in Government affairs
- Sponsor events, conferences & meetings
11 Jan, Senator Rubio and a number of his staff Members visited the Research
Park. After an abbreviated Team Orlando brief, he toured a number of
technology displays set up for this event. Jim Jardon, JHT & Medical
Curriculum Technologies and Elizabeth Burch, Dignitas Technologies (NCS
Member Companies) were present for introductions and to represent some of
their technologies on display.
12 Jan, Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) have announced plans to open a
STEM-themed high school in August 2013, and pursue financial assistance
from the Gates Foundation. Their stated objective is to use innovative
instructional methods, i.e., simulation, on-line instruction, project-based
learning teams, experiential learning and others. Both NCS and UCF/IST have
agreed to partner with OCPS as they move forward with a proposal to the Gates
Foundation. The idea would be to ensure MS&T is a major part of the future
curriculum.
13 Jan, as follow-up to last year’s Trade & Investment Mission to Israel led by
Mayor Dyer, he hosted a visit to Orlando by Moshe Yonay, principal advisor to
the Mayor of Kiryat Motzkin, Orlando’s sister city in Israel. Attending the
round table discussion with the Mayor was most of the Team that traveled to
Israel last year:
Mayor Dyer
Tony Nicholson, Florida Hospital’s Nicholson Center for
Surgical Advancement (NCSA)
Dr. Thad Seymour, Lake Nona Medical City
Lt Gen (Ret) Thomas L. Baptiste, NCS
Bridgette Goersch, Orlando Aviation Authority
Karen Anderson, Architectural Design Cooperative
Carmenza Gonzales, Consultant
Rick Wassel, Florida Hospital’s Nicholson Center for Surgical
Advancement (NCSA)
17 Jan, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste hosted an orientation visit from Ray Sands,
Military Admissions Outreach Representative, FullSail University. Mr. Sands
was interested in re-establishing the FullSail Membership in NCS. This also
presented an opportunity to suggest FullSail get much more involved with
GameTech through display space, volunteer support and potential
sponsorship.
19 Jan, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste was interviewed by Kevin Fritz for an article in
Texture Magazine.
18-20 Jan, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste participated on a panel chaired by MG Bill
Bond, former Commanding General STRICOM. The panel was part of TechNet
2012, “Meeting the Warfighter’s Full Spectrum Challenge” and focused Test,
Evaluation and acquisition of M&S Technologies & Applications in support of
America’s Warfighters.
6-7 Feb, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented NCS and the MS&T Industry cluster
at the National M&S Coalition Inaugural Congress in D.C. On the second day,
he visited a number of Congressional offices to discuss, among other issues,
the possibility of additional BRAC rounds in 2013 & 2015.
28 Jan & 11 Feb, in Sep 2011 NCS hosted a High School M&S Curriculum
Workshop that included education leaders from Orange & Seminole Counties,
the Florida Department of Education and representatives from the M&S
Industry. Desired outcomes included:
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To identify skill sets required by M&S Industry now and in the future
To describe M&S workforce opportunities
To become familiar with regional post-secondary school programs in
M&S
To understand the range and content of M&S courses being taught in
a sample set of High Schools in Orange and Seminole in a sample set
of high schools in Orange & Seminole Counties
To construct a model M&S curricula
To plan for the education of a broader range of teachers across the
many counties of Florida
As follow-up to the workshop, NCS hosted two additional sessions (28 Jan & 11
Feb) involving selected teachers to help write a model M&S curriculum. That
effort is nearly complete and will lead to a submission of the curriculum to the
Florida Department of Education for approval and eventual implementation in
selected Florida High Schools.
13 Feb, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Dr. Dan Holsenbeck, VADM Al Harms,
Fred Kittinger and Mark Yerkes to discuss initial steps to energize the
community for potential BRAC rounds in 2013 & 2015.
14 Feb, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Reagan Rick & Ted Sheppe, Executive
Vice Presidents with Fifth Third Bank. They were interested in knowing more
about the MS&T cluster in Central Florida and potential business development
opportunities for their banks.
23 Feb, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Omar Metwally, Irene Melendez &
Nathan Gilbert, Florida Technical College to talk about the MS&T Industry
cluster in Central Florida and potential NCS Membership for the College.
28 Feb, during the past 45+ years, Central Florida has quietly grown to become
the epicenter of the Modeling, Simulation & Training (MS&T) Industry in the
United States and arguably in the world. With more than 150 companies
across the Central Florida high tech corridor involved, this $5+ billion per year
Industry provides critically needed technology to support our war fighters and
has been a survivor in a down economy. Baker and Hostetler, Attorneys at Law
hosted a Lunch & Learn that featured Thomas L. Baptiste, Lt Gen, USAF (Ret),
President/Executive Director, National Center for Simulation to outline how
Industry, Academia and smart Government have helped this cluster develop
and grow, why it is important to the future of a more diversified Florida
economy and what promising opportunities are on the horizon. More than 125
community leaders attended the by-invitation only luncheon.
2 Mar, Aaron Gorovitz, an attorney with Lowndes, Drosdick, Kanter, Castor &
Reed, invited Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste to participate in a luncheon Round Table
with Colorado Senator Bennet. Senator Bennet is visiting a number of areas
around the U.S. to talk about small business development and public private
partnerships that work.
5 Mar, NCS planned and executed a visit to Team Orlando and the Research
Park for Senator Nelson. Senator Inouye was also scheduled to attend but had
to cancel at the last minute.
12 Mar, NCS planned and executed a luncheon session with MS&T Industry
leaders and Congressman John Mica.
6 Apr, Rick Stroyan, CSC, Vice President Warfighter Focus invited Lt Gen (Ret)
Baptiste to be the keynote speaker at an “All Hands” meeting. The focus of the
presentation was the significant growth of the MS&T Industry over the past
several years and a vision for the future.
10 Apr, NCS partnered with the Florida Federal Contractors Association
(FFCA), headquartered in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area, and UCF to host an
event with Industry with special guest Congressman Daniel Webster. This was
the first joint event with FFCA aimed at fostering closer cooperation/
collaboration between the two Associations and emphasizing the high tech
opportunities across the High Tech Corridor of Central Florida. More than 75
business leaders attended the event.
10 Apr, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste participated in a regional stakeholder’s data
collection event hosted by UCF aimed at developing metrics to evaluate
American Public Land Grant Universities (APLUs) success in the following
areas:
-
Relationships with Industry
Developing the Regional & national Workforce
Knowledge Incubation & Acceleration Programs
11 Apr, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste participated in a Research Park orientation visit
for Wiley Deck, Congressman John Mica’s Chief of Staff and Patrick Kelly, his
local District Representative. Other participants included:
Dr. Dan Holsenbeck, VP University Relations, UCF
Joe Wallace, Director Orange County Research & Development Authority
Dr. Randy Shumaker, Director UCF/IST
13 Apr, NCS planned to host an event with Industry featuring Congresswoman
Sandy Adams and Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner. The two sit on the
Science, Space and Technology Committee in the House and the focus of the
event will be “spin-off” or “technology transfer” of MS&T technologies and
applications to other sectors of the economy. Note: this event had to be
cancelled at the last minute.
16 Apr, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste and Hank Okraski, Chair, NCS Education &
Workforce Development Committee visited Dr. Carol Eaton, President Daytona
State College and others involved in the Simulation and Robotics Program (Dr.
Eaglin, Paul Anindya, Mary Bruno and Dr. Vitale). The purpose of the visit
was to meet the President and other faces that are new to their program. Their
handling of the Hank Okraski Scholarship Program has been inconsistent. We
have agreed to broaden the eligibility criteria for the scholarship to include
both the two-year AA Degree Program and the newly initiated four-year BA
Degree Program. They will also increase the number of awards annually to
allocate money that is currently held by the Foundation.
17 Apr, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste hosted Simone Fillippini, the Netherlands
Consul-General for a discussion on the MS&T cluster in Central Florida. She
was accompanied by Mr. Martijn Regelink; Commercial Dept., Netherlands
Consulate Miami; and the Honorary Consul Patrick Willemsen. The Consul
General was interested in exploring any potential partnership or joint venture
opportunities for Netherlands High Tech Companies in Orlando/Central
Florida.
20 Apr, Fred Kittinger from UCF invited Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste to provide
opening remarks at a scheduled UCF Update for Economic Development
Professionals and Aides to local Elected Officials from across the High Tech
Corridor. The orientation included a Team Orlando Brief and a discussion of
the MS&T cluster in Central Florida and visits to different areas of UCF.
21 Apr, the City of Orlando hosted the 2012 International Downtown
Association Conference and Thomas Chatmon; Executive Director of the
Orlando Downtown Development Board asked Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste to be the
keynote speaker on the final day of the Conference.
23 Apr, update on preparations for future rounds of BRAC:
Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste presented a briefing on initial thoughts for
preparing for future rounds of BRAC at the MAAC meeting held at the
EDC. Next step is to form a high level community task force to develop a
strategic plan to BRAC-proof NSA Orlando. The FLHTCC and the Metro
Orlando EDC have agreed to fund an update to the MS&T Economic
Impact Study and are looking at other ways to fund support to
community BRAC efforts.
Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste talked with JR McDonald, VP Corporate
Domestic Business Development—Joint Programs, Lockheed Martin. JR
sits on the Florida Defense Support Task Force and is keen to support
the MS&T cluster in Central Florida during their continuing
deliberations.
Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste is in dialogue with John Schueler, former
publisher of the Tampa Tribune and lead for Tampa’s preparations for
potential rounds of BRAC in 2013 & 2015. The idea would be to pool
our resources and take a regional approach to protecting our Military
Infrastructure.
Jim Jardon, JHT has made a referral introduction to Representative
Steve Precourt. Representative Precourt is looking for ways that he
might support preparations for countering any future BRAC activity in
Central Florida. Contact has been made with his office and efforts will
be made to coordinate a visit to Team Orlando and the Research Park on
30 May 2012. If possible the visit invitation will also be extended to
Representatives Weatherford, Dorworth and Brodeur to seek their
support as well. Dr. Dan Holsenbeck has also agreed to reach out to
Speaker Canon and Senator Altman and invite them to attend.
John Schueler has provided a referral introduction to Brig Gen (Ret) Chip
Deal who sits on the Defense Task Force representing MacDill AFB, U.S.
Central Command and U.S. Special Operations Command in Tampa. Lt
Gen (Ret) Baptiste will ask for his support in representing NSA Orlando
equities during future Task Force deliberations.
At the invitation of Rick Weddle, President Metro Orlando Economic
Development Commission (EDC), Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste presented a
briefing to the EDC’s Executive Committee on initial thoughts of how we
can organize the community for future rounds of BRAC.
26 Apr, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste delivered a keynote address at a Florida Technical
College—Kissimmee Campus Technology Event and Career Fair.
3 May, NCS hosted a semi-annual Membership Night. More than 110 Members
and invited guests attended the event.
3 May, NCS partnered with Edwards Financial Services to host a round table
event with Industry focused on “Economic trends and international business
opportunities”. The event was free to all participants and NCS shared the
invitation with the UCF Business Incubator and Manufacturers Association of
Central Florida to broaden the outreach.
9 May, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste addressed a number of visiting Consul Generals
for European Union Member Countries during their visit to the UCF Medical
School. The guests included:
Honorable Kevin Gurgan, Consul General, United Kingdom, he had to
cancel at the last minute
Honorable Gael de Maisonneuve, Consul General, France
Honorable Eva Alexandra Kendeffy, Consul General, Germany
Honorable Adolfo Bartolo, Consul General, Italy
Mr. Gianluca Fontani, President, Italy-America Chamber of Commerce
Mr. Mario Buisan, Trade Commissioner, Spain
Honorable Cristina Barrios, Consul general, Spain
9-12 May, NCS helped with marketing and outreach for the 2012 Medical
Technology, Training & Treatment (MT3) Conference held here in Orlando in
exchange for recognition as a sponsor.
18-19 May, NCS sponsored ($2,000) the UCF-hosted National Science
Olympiad which brought more than 10,000 bright, eager middle and high
school students, families and teachers to compete in the largest science
tournament of its kind in the country.
22-24 May, NCS participated at ITEC 2012. The European equivalent of
I/ITSEC, ITEC provides a unique opportunity to tell the story of the MS&T
Industry in Central Florida. NCS partnered with the Metro Orlando EDC to
talk with European companies about the benefits of having a presence in the
epicenter of the MS&T Industry. In order to manage conference costs, NCS
partnered with Lockheed Martin GT&L to share a portion of their booth space.
Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste also participated on a panel during the conference.
30 May, NCS and Team Orlando planned and executed a visit to the Research
Park and SAIC for a number of Florida Legislators and staff Members. The
following participated in the visit:
Senator Thad Altman
Senator David Simmons
Representative Steve Precourt
Representative Chris Crisafulli
Representative Bryan Nelson
Representative Eric Eisnaugle (tentative)
Staff Members:
Susan Fernandez (Senator Rubio's office)
Cindy Brown (Congressman Webster's office)
Maggie Mickler (Rep Precourt’s office)
Russ Abrams (Governor Scott's office)
Louis Rotundo
In addition to the Team Orlando orientation brief, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste used
this opportunity to discuss preparation for future rounds of BRAC.
5 Jun, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste delivered the keynote address at a Citrus Club
luncheon event sponsored by the Florida Executive Women (FEW) Group.
6 Jun, in response to an Enterprise Florida, Inc. RFP, NCS submitted a
Defense Reinvestment Grant Proposal for $91,000. The Grant would require
NCS to match at least 30% of the Grant award. This Grant will fund NCS
Outreach & Advocacy efforts to educate and inform the community and our
elected officials on the power of this Industry Cluster and its importance to a
more diversified Florida economy. It will also fund NCS efforts to mobilize the
community to protect NSA Orlando from future BRAC activities. Grant funds
will also be applied to NCS participation in I/ITSEC 2012 & 2013, ITEC 2013
and GameTech 2013 to showcase high tech opportunities in Central Florida
and to attract companies to consider a presence here. And finally, Grant funds
will also support NCS STEM initiatives and efforts to promote tech transfer/
spin-off of simulation technology and applications to other sectors of the
economy besides defense.
7 Jun, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste delivered a keynote address at the UCF
International Residency Program for International MBA students (ages 26-35)
from EOI Business School (Escuela de Organización International, Madrid
University). The event was held at the UCF Medical School.
12 Jun, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste hosted a meeting with Patrick Ellis, Commercial
Loan Officer Central Florida Region and Kimberly Layton, Branch Manager,
Winter Park and Colonialtown, Centennial Bank. The two were interested in
ways that Centennial Bank could get more active and more involved in NCS
activities and events. Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste outlined a number of ways they
could get their Brand in front of the Membership and the Community and
encouraged them to attend the NCS events and take advantage of the
networking opportunities.
12 Jun, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste attended a Tiger Bay Club event that featured a
debate between Congresswoman Sandy Adams and Congressman John Mica.
One of the two will likely represent the Research Park and MS&T cluster after
the Nov 2012 elections.
12 Jun, NCS' very own Carla Hoskins delivered the keynote address at the
most recent Navy League Luncheon here in Orlando. Her presentation was
focused on Baseball Legend Bob Feller (1918 - 2010)--the only Chief Petty
Officer in the Baseball Hall of Fame! On hand to receive a Lone Sailor
Memorial Paver was Bob Feller's son Steve.
14 Jun, Edward Howard Cahill was recently selected to receive a $1,800
Scholarship to participate in the Simulation and Robotics Technology Program
at Daytona State College (DSC). NCS supports DSC students through a
Scholarship Program named for Hank Okraski, a pioneer in the Simulation
Industry, long time NCS Board of Directors Member and Chair of the NCS
Education/Workforce Development Committee. Mr. Cahill plans to pursue a
career in simulator maintenance.
19-20 Jun, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented the MS&T Industry at the Florida
Federal Contractors Association (FFCA) Federal Affairs Workshop in D.C. This
event provided an opportunity to engage a number of elected officials and their
staffs in D.C. and will further the cooperation and collaboration between NCS
and FFCA in Central Florida
21 Jun, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste hosted an orientation visit to the Research Park
for Toney Coley, Region President, Central Florida Region, BB&T Bank and two
other senior executives. Mr. Coley is interested in exploring ways for BB&T
Bank to get more involved with East Orlando and the MS&T Industry.
22 Jun, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented the MS&T Industry at a power
breakfast hosted by the Orlando Business Journal. The focus of the panel
discussion was the MS&T Industry in Central Florida. Other panelist included
CAPT Snak Nakagawa, Commander NAWC TSD/NSA Orlando, CAPT (Ret)
Smokey Robinson, former Commander NAWCTSD/NSA Orlando and now with
the VA SIMLEARN Center at Lake Nona’s Medical City and Brian Walters, VP
Metro Orlando EDC.
27-28 Jun, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented the MS&T Industry at the Capitol
Hill Expo hosted by NTSA in D.C. This event provided an opportunity to
engage Members of the M&S Leadership Caucus and their staffs in the House.
9 Jul, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Brian Kamuda, Orlando Magic Marketing
to discuss possible collaboration with NCS Members that could involve
discount tickets to Magic Games or use of meeting space in the Amway Center.
11 Jul, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Marni Spence & Larry Calise from
CliftonLarsonAllen and Joseph Vetter, Senior VP, Commercial Banking at PNC
Bank. Mr. Vetter is interested in NCS Membership and possibly holding a
round table discussion to explain financing options NCS Member Companies
might consider with PNC Bank.
11 Jul, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste hosted an office call for Dr. Manuel Gertrudix
Barrio, a visiting professor from Spain. Dr. Barrio is visiting the Research
Park and UCF/IST to learn more about the MS&T cluster in Central Florida
and other high tech opportunities.
12 Jul, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste hosted an office call with Irv Zaks, Senior VP
Defense Systems @ DRC and Dr. Lee Lacy. Mr. Zaks was visiting the DRC
operation here in Orlando and was interested in learning more about NCS and
possible future initiatives.
13 Jul, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Maj Gen (Ret) Lee Downer, Accenture.
Gen (Ret) Downer was interested in learning more about NCS and the
simulation cluster in Central Florida.
16-18 Jul, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste attended the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition
(USGLC) annual meeting in D.C. Gen (Ret) Baptiste is a member of the USGLC
Security Advisory Committee. Included in the program was a tribute dinner
recognizing The Honorable Colin Powell, The Honorable Madeleine Albright,
The Honorable Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and The Honorable Lindsey Graham (RSC). The event also provided an opportunity to visit Congressional offices and
engage Members and influential staffers whose support we will need for any
future round of BRAC.
16-19 Jul, NCS planned and executed a STEM M&S Curriculum and Florida
Standards Development Workshop at Haggerty High School in Seminole
County. Participants included subject matter experts from NCS, University
High School, Timber Creek High School, Journey High School, Crooms
Academy for Information Technology (AOIT), Lyman High School and the State
of Florida Department of Education by conference call. This workshop was
follow-up to a STEM Education Workshop for Teachers held on 11 Sep 2011
and a STEM Curriculum Task Force Workshop held on 11 Feb 2012. The
workshop produced two products:
- A final model M&S Curriculum for High School Students based on
State of Florida Standards; and
- A framework and standards (content) for a four year High School
program focused in M&S.
The basic curriculum document is patterned after one developed by Old
Dominion University. The document was reviewed and modified to meet
Florida standards. Industry inputs were incorporated where possible with the
companion standards. Once complete, NCS hopes to offer the model
curriculum to High Schools across the state of Florida with a goal to get
students interested in pursuing a STEM education and employment in the
Central Florida M&S Industry.
18 Jul, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Harry Martin, CEO Intelligent Decisions
(ID) + 4 other senior ID executives. They were in town from the Corporate
Headquarters in D.C. and wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to learn
more about NCS and how we might increase collaboration and cooperation.
19 Jul, NCS planned and executed a visit by the Spectrum Group to the
Research Park and NSA Orlando/Team Orlando. The group is on contract with
the Florida Defense Support Task Force (FDSTF) to conduct detailed mission
analyses and risk assessments of Florida’s Military Installations in preparation
for potential future rounds of BRAC. The detailed agenda and participants
during the visit follow:
Florida Defense Support Task Force/Spectrum Group
Naval Support Activity Orlando (NSA Orlando)/Team Orlando
Visit Thursday, July 19, 2012
Spectrum Group Team Members
MG (Ret) Steve Layfield
Brig Gen Jim Lariviere, USMCR
CAPT (Ret) Carol Schmidt
Thursday, July 19, 2012
0800 Arrive @ University Central Florida Pavilion, 12424 Research
Parkway, Suite 100, Orlando, FL 32826
Met by Lt Gen (Ret) Thomas L. Baptiste, President/Executive Director, National Center for
Simulation (NCS), 407-690-7740. Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste will provide transportation for the
remainder of the visit.
0800 -- 0845 Orange County Research & Development Authority
(OCRDA)--Research Park Overview
Joe Wallace, Director, OCRDA
Dan Holsenbeck, PhD, Vice President for University Relations, University Central Florida (UCF)
Lt Gen (Ret) Thomas L. Baptiste, NCS
Greg Schuckman, UCF
0845 -- 0900 Travel to NSA Orlando/NAWC TSD, De Florez Complex,
12350 Research Parkway, Orlando, FL 32826
Escorted by Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste, NCS
0900 – 1100 NSA Orlando/Team Orlando Briefing
Commander’s Conference Room, 2nd Floor, DeFlorez Complex
CAPT Bill “Roto” Reuter, Former Commander, NSA Orlando/NAWC TSD
CAPT Wes Naylor, XO, NSA Orlando/NAWC TSD
Mark Stenger, AFAMS/TSPG
Annette Pike, PM TRASYS
John Daniele, PEO STRI
Steve Hicks, ADL Co-Lab
Jason Kuykendall, FLETC
Bill Hopkinson, PhD, JTIEC
COL Clarke & Ivan Martinez, RDECOM STTC
Lt Gen (Ret) Thomas L. Baptiste, NCS
Randy Shumaker, PhD, Director, UCF Institute for Simulation & Training (UCF/IST)
Nate Groover, Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC)
Ed Schons, UCF
1100 – 1130 Research Park Driving Tour
Escorted by Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste, NCS
1130 – 1230 Community Partner Lunch at NCS followed by Round Table
Discussion
Partnership III, Room 233, 3039 Technology Parkway, Orlando, FL 32826
1230 – 1430 Military Community Partnerships/Community Partner
Round Table Discussion
Partnership III, Room 233, 3039 Technology Parkway, Orlando, FL 32826
Hosted by:
Lt Gen (Ret) Thomas L. Baptiste, NCS
Dan Holsenbeck, PhD, UCF
Rick Weddle, President, EDC
Randy Berridge, President, Florida High Tech Corridor Council (FHTCC)
Elected Leadership
Senator Thad Altman (had to cancel at last minute)
Representative Ritch Workman, Florida Defense Support Task Force
The Honorable Charles Lacey, Mayor of Winter Springs
The Honorable Dominic Persampiere, Mayor of Oviedo
The Honorable Jennifer Thompson, Orange County Commissioner
The Honorable Bob Dallari, Seminole County Commissioner
Celeste Brown, Regional Director for Senator Bill Nelson
Susan Fernandez, Regional Director for Senator Marco Rubio
Russ Abrams, Central Florida Director for Governor Rick Scott
Cindy Brown, Community Relations Manager for Congressman Dan Webster
Patrick Kelly, District Representative for Congressman John Mica
Don Pardue, Regional Director for Congresswoman Sandy Adams
Ronita Sanders, Area Director for Congresswoman Corrine Brown (did not attend)
Eric Ushkowitz, Director Economic Development for Orange County Mayor Theresa Jacobs
Kathy Russell & Kathy Devault, Government Relations for Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer
Dana Boyte, Aide for Orange County Commissioner Ted Edwards (did not attend)
John Krug, Director, Seminole County Economic Development Department
Industry
David Manning, Strategy ONE Services, Chairman, NCS Board of Directors
Guy Hagen, TuckerHall
Elizabeth Burch, Dignitas
BG (Ret) Steve Seay, Seay Business Solutions
Steve Kopp, Northrop Grumman
Bev Seay, CAE
Academia
Randy Shumaker, PhD, UCF/IST
Ed Schons, UCF
Fred Kittinger, UCF
Greg Schuckman, UCF
Nick Corvino, UCF
1430 – 1530 Tour UCF/IST Labs
Escorted by Randy Shumaker, PhD, UCF/IST
Partnership III, 3039 Technology Parkway, Orlando, FL 32826
Note the remainder of the visit had to be cancelled due to Team time constraints.
1530 – 1545 Travel to U.S. Army Research & Development Command,
Simulation Technology Training Center (RDECOM STTC)
Escorted by Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste, NCS
1545 – 1700 Tour RDECOM STTC Labs
Escorted by COL Clarke & LTC Lisella, STTC
POC: Michelle Milliner, PAO, STTC
12423 Research Parkway, Orlando, FL 32826
1700 -- Visit Complete
20 Jul, Hank Okraski is investigating with Tracey Conner (Michelee Puppets),
Dr. Hartshorne (UCF) and Dr. Anya Andrews (UCF) project(s) using puppets to
teach STEM in the lower grades. There are two possible opportunities for
National Science Foundation Grants. One would involve the Orlando Science
Center. UCF would have the lead with a more formal structure in the
classroom and Tracey/Anya would have the lead for the more informal
approach at the Science Center. NCS would be the "Industry" partner with
actual roles/responsibilities TBD. Ideas might include involving live puppets,
computer-generated puppets with different application environments (e.g.
Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering,
Environmental Engineering, etc).
26 Jul, Lt Gen (Ret) planned and executed an orientation visit to NCS, the
Research Park and UCF/IST for Dr. Marjorie Zielke, University of Texas,
Dallas. The University is interested in adding M&S education and she is fact
finding to inform any future decisions.
27Jul, NCS held its annual Scholarship Fundraising Golf Tournament to
benefit the Vince Amico Scholarship at UCF ($2,500 awarded in the Spring &
Fall) and the Hank Okraski Scholarship at Daytona State College ($1,000
awarded in the Spring & Fall). As a result of generous sponsorship donations,
NCS was able to raise nearly $20,000 for the scholarship accounts.
31 Jul, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Don Johnson and two visiting Senior
Executives from Accenture. The visitors were interested to learn more about
the MS&T cluster in Central Florida and how they might increase Accenture’s
collaboration and cooperation with NCS and other companies in the MS&T
cluster.
1 Aug, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Joe Meterchick and Diane Jacob to
discuss Education Initiatives being pursued by PNC Bank. PNC is involved in
STEM education initiatives in K-8th grade where NCS is not as active. A
recommendation was made to join the NCS Education and Workforce
Development Committee and explore potential synergies between each
organization’s STEM initiatives and to avoid duplication.
1 Aug, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Scott Hotaling, Hotaling Technologies
Group. Scott in interested in learning more about the MS&T cluster in Central
Florida and NCS with an eye toward possible Membership. He is also
interested in participating in any planning efforts in advance of a potential
future round of BRAC.
7 Aug, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste visited the I.D.E.A.S operation in Orlando.
I.D.E.A.S was once a Member of NCS and may be looking to rejoin the
Association.
13 Aug, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste, VADM (Ret) Al Harms, Dr. Johnson & Dr.
Hamann met to discuss a Security Studies partnership with the UCF College of
Sciences. The college will offer a Security Studies PhD Program in 2013 and is
looking for ideas, advice and possible introductions to Military Leaders at the
Service War Colleges and possibly the Combatant Commands.
15 Aug, NCS awarded a $2,500 scholarship to Abdul Siddiqui. Abdul is a
graduate of University High School and an incoming UCF freshman. Vince and
Beth Amico were present for the ceremony and photo opportunity.
16 Aug, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste spoke to the Rotary Club of Orange County East,
Winter Park at their breakfast meeting. Every speaking opportunity provides
an opportunity to explain the potential consequences of a future round of BRAC
and discuss community efforts required to protect the military infrastructure in
Orlando’s Research Park.
16 Aug, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste will join the planning committee for the Central
Florida Partnership Trip to D.C. planned for 2013. One possible issue is how to
leverage the planned community leader trip to support preparations for a
potential future round of BRAC.
22 Aug, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented NCS and the MS&T Industry at a
Community Leader Forum hosted by Gray Robinson, Attorneys at Law.
28 Aug, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented NCS and the MS&T Industry at a
lunch and learn hosted by Baker Hostetler, Attorneys at Law.
30 Aug, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented NCS and the MS&T Industry at an
event in Tampa to promote high tech opportunities in Central Florida on the
margins of the Republican National Convention. The event generated over 20
hours of material to be broadcast through the Tampa Bay Partnership’s online
website (www.frontrowtampabay.com). Included in the program are produced
shows, interviews and panel discussions covering healthcare, technology,
business, and many other areas?
30 Aug, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste visited the Digital Domain operation in Port St.
Lucie. Their leadership is interested in exploring opportunities to better
integrate their digital media and special effects capabilities in the MS&T
Industry in Central Florida.
6 Sep, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Michael Haag, Peter Vilmos and Jim Pratt
of Burr & Forman, Attorneys at Law. They were interested in ways to better
interact with NCS and the MS&T Membership to foster closer collaboration and
cooperation.
12 Sep, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste gave the keynote address at the Tampa Bay
Chapter NDIA breakfast meeting. The hosts also organized meetings with the
leadership of the Tampa Bay Partnership and Hillsborough County EDC. They
are interested in pursuing reciprocal high level meetings to the Research Park
and then to Tampa in order to foster greater understanding and closer
cooperation. A visit to Tampa would include an orientation of MacDill AFB,
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and U.S. Special Operations Command
(SOCOM).
18 Sep, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste participated in a Branding discussion with
Members from Enterprise Florida, Inc. and advisers from North Star Branding
Consultants. The focus of the discussion is how to tell the story of high tech
opportunity in Florida. Everyone recognizes that Florida is the #1 tourist
location in America, but we don’t do a very good job of telling “the rest of the
story”!
24 Sep, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste was invited by Aaron Gorovitz of Lowndes,
Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, Attorneys at Law to participate in a business
leader round table discussion with Mr. Jeff Zients, head of the White House
Office of Management & Budget. Mr. Zients is travelling the country to discuss
the President’s plan for the economy and hear the concerns of business leaders.
25-26 Sep, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste travelled to Suffolk, VA to represent NCS and
the MS&T cluster of Central Florida at the NTSA-hosted M&S Multi-Con. The
National Modeling & Simulation Coalition met at the Virginia Modeling,
Analysis & Simulation Center (VMASC) to advance a National agenda in
support of MS&T.
28 Sep, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented NCS and the MS&T cluster at the
latest meeting of the UCF M&S Executive Advisory Board. The Executive
Advisory Board is charged with providing direction & guidance to inform the
leadership that oversees the UCF Graduate Degree Programs in M&S.
28 Sep, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented NCS and the MS&T Industry cluster
at an orientation visit of Team Orlando and the Research Park for David Cruise
Malloy, Ph.D, Associate Vice President for Research at the University of Regina,
Saskatchewan, Canada. In addition to orientation briefings the tour included
visits to the UCF/IST labs to view cutting edge research efforts to advance the
state-of-the-art of M&S for training and education.
1 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste gave the keynote address at a Rotary Club meeting
in Winter Park.
3 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste was asked by Orange County Mayor Theresa
Jacobs to participate in an Orange County “Branding Summit”. The intent is to
explore ways to better communicate the high tech opportunities available in
Central Florida. In advance of the “Branding Summit”, the Mayor has asked
Gen (Ret) Baptiste to participate in a video shoot with Channel 9 News that will
highlight the MS&T cluster in Central Florida.
4 Oct, Rick Weddle, President Metro Orlando Economic Development
Commission asked Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste to provide his Board of Directors an
update on Community preparations for a possible future round of BRAC.
4 Oct, NCS hosted a media event in partnership with the National Association
of Manufacturers (NAM) and Associated Industries of Florida (AIF). The focus of
the event was the potential impact of Sequestration on small businesses.
Round table panelists included: Former Congressman Tom Feeney, President
& CEO, AIF, Dorothy Coleman, VP for Tax & Domestic Economic Policy, NAM,
Christine Wayne, Manager Government & Public Affairs, AAR Corporation and
Lt Gen (Ret) Tom Baptiste, President/Executive Director, NCS.
9 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented NCS and the MS&T Industry at a
Future of Florida Forum hosted by the Florida Chamber of Commerce. As a
panelist, Gen (Ret) Baptiste was asked to outline the potential impact of the
Budget Control Act of 2011 and Sequestration on Florida’s Defense Industry.
Unless Congress can find a solution during the final 7 weeks of the year, the
Budget Control Act and automatic spending cuts go into effect on 2 Jan 2013.
12 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste participated in a Community Leader Forum at
GrayRobinson, Attorneys at Law. The focus of the event was “Florida’s
Transportation Vision for the 21st Century” and included Ananth Prasad,
Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation.
16 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste participated in a Business Leader event at the
Amway Center. The focus of the event was the “Impact of the Florida Hospital
Celebration Health Assessment” and included leadership from both Florida
Hospital and the Orlando Magic.
25 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste represented NCS and the MS&T Industry at a
Business Force “Insider’s Briefing” featuring Representative Scott Plakon,
Candidate for House District 30; Dr. Rob Brooks, Candidate for House District
47; and Marco Pena, Candidate for House District 49.
26 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste chaired the most recent Statewide Professional
Science Masters’ (PSM) Degree Program Advisory Committee at the UCF
Research Pavilion.
29 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste hosted Brian Domian from SAAB Training.
SAAB’s Membership is up for renewal and Brian wanted to learn more about
NCS Initiatives in support of the MS&T Industry cluster.
30 Oct, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste hosted Mark Fallon from Windwalker Corp. Mark
was interested in learning more about NCS and potential Membership.
31 Oct, George Cheros has recruited Capital Strategies for NCS Membership.
They visited NCS on 31 Oct to learn more about the MS&T Industry and ways
that they can be actively involved.
8-9 Nov, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste was invited by Governor Scott and his Secretary
of Commerce, Gray Swoope to attend the Enterprise Florida Board Dinner and
Board of Directors/Stakeholders Meeting at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort.
14-20 Nov, Orange County Mayor Theresa Jacobs led a Trade & Investment
Mission to Columbia. Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste was a Member of the delegation
tasked with showcasing the MS&T Industry and other high tech opportunities
in Central Florida. Other areas represented on the delegation were:
The Orlando Aviation Authority
Port Canaveral
Visit Orlando
UCF Advanced Materials & Nanotechnology Center
The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
The Metro Orlando EDC
The Disney National Entrepreneur Center
16 Nov, George Cheros attended the “Focus on Excellence” breakfast hosted by
UCF President John Hitt at the Sheraton Orlando. The presentation featured
the UCF Business Incubator Program and several NCS companies were
recognized.
26 Nov, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste and George Cheros met with Melanie Fernandez &
Jennifer Spooner from Cross, Fernandez & Riley. They were interested in
learning more about the MS&T cluster in Central Florida and have since joined
NCS. We are also discussing a future Industry round table featuring Jennifer
Spooner and focused on the financial impacts of the 2012 Healthcare
Legislation.
27 Nov, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste and George Cheros met with former Mayor
Richard Crotty. The former Mayor is doing some work with Florida Hospital
focused on opportunities in Medical Simulation and wanted to discuss what is
going on in the MS&T Industry.
27 Nov, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste was a guest speaker at the monthly meeting of
the Central Florida Veterans Association (CFVA).
29 Nov, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste was the guest speaker at the monthly meeting of
the National Contract Management Association’s (NCMA) local chapter.
3-6 Dec, I/ITSEC 2012 was held at the Orange County Convention Center.
NCS organized a partnership booth that included Enterprise Florida (EFI), the
Florida High Tech Corridor Council (FHTCC), UCF/IST, the Metro Orlando
Economic Development Commission (EDC), Progress Energy (sponsor), Florida
Hospital’s Nicholson Center for Surgical Advancement (NCSA) and the local
chapter of the International Council of Systems Engineers (INCOSE). The booth
exemplified the public-private partnerships that make Orlando/Central Florida
the epicenter of the MS&T Industry worldwide.
3-6 Dec, after an intense two-year development and collaboration effort, the
National Center for Simulation (NCS) unveiled a Modeling and Simulation
(M&S) curriculum at the 2012 Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and
Education Conference (I/ITSEC). The four-year curriculum was developed for
high school students to learn and gain expertise in the field of M&S. Building
on the initial work accomplished by Old Dominion University; the NCS
Curriculum Development Team of industry, academia and government
constructed a curriculum that covers all aspects of M&S. The curriculum
includes a multitude of classroom instructional activities. The team worked in
conjunction with the Florida Department of Education and both Orange and
Seminole County Public Schools to ensure adherence to educational standards.
A curriculum framework, required by State of Florida for full implementation of
the program, is in final coordination at this time, but Teachers can use
portions of the curriculum to meet their needs now. In the future, a
standardized exam will be implemented for students to pass and receive a
certification in the M&S field.
5 Dec, on the margins of I/ITSEC 2012, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste was asked to
speak at a breakfast meeting that included over 100 Canadian and American
business executives attending I/ITSEC.
10 Dec, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste & George Cheros met with Wendy Anderson of
Anderson P.A. and Gabriela Normann from SunTrust. Wendy was interested in
learning more about the MS&T Industry with an eye toward possible NCS
Membership.
11 Dec, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste hosted an office call for Paul Jarley, Ph.D, the
new Dean of the UCF College of Business.
11 Dec, George Cheros and Lt. Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with Stephen Luther of
Allen, Dyer, Doppelt, Milbrath & Gilchrist P.A, an intellectual property based
law firm. The purpose of the meeting was for Mr. Luther to explore the benefits
of NCS membership and the firm has since joined the association. Mr. Luther
also expressed interest in hosting seminars for NCS companies on IP as it
relates to the Modeling and Simulation industry.
12 Dec, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste & George Cheros met with David Fuller & Jeff
Goodwin of SunTrust. David Fuller is the CEO of Central Florida SunTrust
Market and Jeff Goodwin is the Head of Commercial Banking. Although a
portion of the SunTrust Banking System has joined NCS, the two are interested
in a much larger role for the Bank.
28 Jan, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste has been invited to speak at a workshop in
Brussels hosted by the European Commission and European Union Defence
Sector entitled: “Regional Smart Specialisation for the EU Defence Sector”. The
organizers want to feature the success story of the civil-military economic
cluster in Orlando as a model for growth and job creation. On the margins of
the workshop, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste will visit NATO HQs to promote increased
collaboration with NATO’s Allied Command Transformation (Based in Norfolk,
VA) and the Members of the NATO Alliance.
Objective 3—Provide M&S Business Development Support to Member
Companies
- Provide information services
- Provide project development, administration, and management &
support services
January New Members:
VT MAK Technologies
State College of Florida
Alex Thomas—practitioner
Ken Doris—practitioner
10 Jan, NCS hosted a lunch and learn technical demonstration. The focus was
on a desktop application created by AGI and VT MAK that helps increase the
fidelity of distributed simulations by adding real-time analysis to battlefield
simulations through DIS and HLA protocols.
27 Jan, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste participated in a luncheon event for her Majesty’s
Consul General, United Kingdom Trade & Investment and other regional
business leaders hosted by the British American Chamber of Commerce
(BACC).
February New Members:
Stirling Dynamics
Intego Group
Kurt Hall—practitioner
Weidner Consulting
Florida League of Defense Contractors—reciprocal membership
8 Feb, NCS partnered with Kinberg and Associates, LLC to host a legal
roundtable focused on Teaming Arrangements/Joint Ventures in Government
Contracting. The event included breakfast and was free to all participants.
NCS also extended the outreach to include the Manufacturing Association of
Central Florida (MACF) and the UCF Incubator and 30+ people attended the
roundtable.
23 Feb, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste met with 3 x Executives from Novonics
Corporation (Michael Weber, Manager Tampa Operation, Al Uy, Marketing Lead
& Charles Frye, General Manager Southern Division) to help them with access
to Congresswoman Sandy Adams. Novonics is moving to market the Advanced
Use of Force Training System, A Critical Choice Decision Training System.
Congresswoman Adams is aware of the system and supportive of the training
possibilities the system offers based on her previous experience in law
enforcement.
23 Feb, NCS partnered with the British American Chamber of Commerce
(BACC) in Orlando and SAIC to host an orientation visit of the Research Park
and reception for Members of UK Trade & Investment (UK TI) out of Miami. A
portion of the program was devoted touring simulation displays at SAIC. The
broader focus was to showcase high tech opportunities in Central Florida.
March New Members:
Hewlett-Packard Company
Anya Andrews—practitioner
Joseph Banes—student
123 Certification, Inc.
Bouchard Insurance
Edwards Financial Services
15 Mar, NCS partnered with Stirling Dynamics to host a technical
demonstration/workshop focused on "Active Controls: A Technology Review
and Examination into New Training Possibilities". This event is aimed at
anyone with past or present interest in force feedback, fly-by-wire pilot
controls, or active inceptor technology.
April New Members:
Jeff Strobach—practitioner
Anton Pavlas—student
National Modeling & Simulation Coalition (NMSC)
WITTENSTEIN, aerospace & simulation, Inc.
Deborah Quackenbush—practitioner
May New Members:
Wes Woodruff—practitioner
Motion Analysis Corporation
Jim Siebold—practitioner
FullSail University
Johanna Kenney—student
QinetiQ North America
Martye Joyce—student
3 May, NCS partnered with Edwards Financial Services to host a round table
discussion with Industry focused on economic trends and international
business opportunities. NCS broadened the outreach to include the UCF
Incubator, the Florida Federal Contractors Association (FFCA) and the
Manufacturing Association of Central Florida (MACF).
3 May, NCS held its semiannual Membership Night at Stoneybrook East Golf
Club. More than 110 Members and invited guests attended the evening event.
June New Members:
The Digital Animation & Visual Effects (DAVE) School
Ashley Hughes—student
William Lowman—practitioner
Whittaker Cooper Financial Group
20-21 Jun, NCS hosted a technical Demonstration of Polhemus’ G4 motion
tracking system.
22 Jun, NCS supported marketing and outreach to MS&T Companies for a
Small Business Policy Forum hosted by Congressman John Mica. Joining
Congressman Mica was Chairman Sam Graves of the House Committee on
Small Business. In his capacity as Chairman, Congressman Graves is
responsible for small business legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The forum was a frank discussion that examined ideas to foster positive policy
change to aid in strengthening small businesses, cut red tape and spur job
creation.
July New Members:
Earle Denton—practitioner
David Komives—practitioner
25 Jul, NCS hosted a legal round table featuring Ed Kinberg, Kinberg &
Associates, LLC. The focus of the round table was to dispel common myths
and improve communications between Government and Industry during the
acquisition process.
22 Aug, NCS teamed with the Manufacturing Association of Central Florida
(MACF) to hold the annual Manufacturing-Simulation Exchange. The event
was hosted by Metters, Inc in the Research Park and provided an opportunity
for MS&T Industry personnel to network with their counterparts involved in
Manufacturing. The event also gave companies an opportunity to display their
technologies and marketing materials.
September New Members:
Greg Hollister—student
Associated Industries of Florida (AIF)—reciprocal
Kimberly Hadzima—student
ManTech International
10 Oct, Pete Marion from Parsons Corporation has approached NCS to plan,
organize and execute a small business forum on 22 Jan 2013. Parsons intent
is to introduce their many lines of business to potential small business
subcontractors who could be valuable partners in future business
opportunities.
October New Members:
Brendan Loflin—practitioner
ASI Displays
Sound Design, LLC
Keith Nelson—practitioner
Lone Star
Simformotion
9 Nov, NCS hosted its second semiannual Membership Night for 2012 in
Partnership III. The event attracted over 150 Members and invited guests. In
his remarks, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste took advantage of the opportunity to explain
to the guests what the community is doing to prepare for a potential round of
BRAC in 2015 and to encourage Industry to join the effort and provide financial
and in-kind support.
November New Members:
SunTrust Bank
Jeffery Wilkinson—practitioner
Sundog Software
City National Bank
Lee Barnes—practitioner
Capital Strategies
Moulage Sciences & Training
Territo Electric
Karen Poleyeff—practitioner
Richard Kerr—practitioner
December New Members:
BGI, LLC
R-Squared Solutions, LLC
Cross, Fernandez & Riley, CPAs
Allen, Dyer, Doppelt, Milbrath & Gilchrist, P.A.
Bank of America
Synthetiq
World Affairs Council of Central Florida—reciprocal
Tw telecom
Objective 4—Support M&S Infrastructure
- Encourage outreach
- Advocate facilities/telecom
- Support security initiatives
14 Feb, Lt Gen (Ret) Baptiste signed an addendum to the FedSUN IV contract
with Truevance, Inc. to fund an expansion of the current scope of work
(approved by Enterprise Florida on 21 Dec 2011). The additional work will
accommodate future growth within the Research Park while staying within the
not-to-exceed value ($346,000) of the current Defense Infrastructure Grant.
9 May, Truevance Management, Inc. completed the FedSun IV project in late
April under budget.
Thomas L. Baptiste, Lt Gen, USAF (Ret)
President/Executive Director