Carol Johnson, Southern Indiana Business Report
ODON – Technical innovators and key stakeholders met at WestGate Technology Park this week for the annual Naval Innovative Science and Engineering (NISE) Technical Exchange Meeting (TEM).
Nearly 500 people gathered for the event that provides an opportunity to collaborate, share ideas and network within the greater Naval Research and Development Establishment (NR&DE).
The focus of this year’s event was “Building Enduring Advantages” and highlighted the associated research, technology transition, workforce development and infrastructure projects being conducted under the NISE program.
NISE is held at different locations on a rotating basis and this year marked the first time Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane (NSWC Crane) hosted the event. Crane is one of several federal labs operated by the US Navy. Its three mission areas are electromagnetic warfare, expeditionary warfare and strategic missions.
Getting to host the event was an incredible opportunity for NSWC Crane, said Angie Lewis, NSWC Crane Technical Director.
“We’re all doing technical workload advancement in different capability areas. On an annual basis we get together to celebrate those projects and share information, one to another,” she said.
“We’re thrilled. We had terrific registration numbers,” Lewis said. “For some of them it’s their first time visiting Crane and for some it’s the first time visiting Indiana. For them to be able to see the vibrant defense ecosystem here in the heartland, that’s one of the most exciting things for me.”
Speakers included Dr. Brett Seidle, Principal Civilian Deputy to the Assistant Secretary of the US Navy (Research, Development & Acquisition), and Rear Adm. Kurt J. Rothenhaus, Chief of Naval Research.
Seidle spoke about the criticality of collaboration and the important role the scientists, engineers and innovators play in equipping the Navy with the latest technology. .
The event included several presentations highlighting the collaboration projects. The two days culminated with a presentation of awards for the top impressive technology advancements over the past year.