Event Overview
On July 17-18, 2024, the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) became the epicenter of innovation as it hosted the "Software Enabled Weapons Industry Day." This unique event brought together representatives from government, industry, and academia with a shared goal: to address the challenges of long timelines for weapon performance enhancement and the complexities of interpreting vast operational data. The primary objective of the collider was to create a collaborative environment where stakeholders could engage in meaningful dialogue about governmental needs and initiatives while gaining insight into cutting-edge technologies being developed in the private sector.
APEX PIA's Role and Support
As a strategic partner, the APEX Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) played a pivotal role in the success of the event. APEX PIA provided extensive support to the AFWERX team, the main organizer of the event, ensuring that every aspect of the event was executed flawlessly. Key contributions from APEX PIA included:
Event Logistics and Coordination: APEX PIA identified the ideal location for the event at UAH and managed all behind-the-scenes logistics. This included coordinating with speakers and developing the agenda for the general session.
Speaker Management: APEX PIA oversaw the collection and organization of speaker briefings and introductions, loading them into a shared Google Drive for easy access and maintaining continuous communication with speakers.
Data Analytics: Utilizing robust APEX Data Analytics capabilities, the team analyzed companies and research labs with software-enabled technologies, leveraging data from SBIR, patent, and academic sources to identify relevant organizations.
Targeted Outreach: APEX PIA conducted targeted outreach on behalf of AFWERX, engaging with the list of identified organizations to ensure their participation and contribution to the event.
On-Site Support: The APEX PIA team traveled to Huntsville to assist AFWERX as needed, facilitating conversations and ensuring the smooth flow of the collider.
Key Highlights and Outcomes
The Software Enabled Weapons Industry Day Collider was a resounding success, with 91 participants in attendance, excluding support staff. The attendees included:
24 Government Representatives from organizations such as AFWERX, Munitions Directorate (AFRL/RW), Missile Defense Agency (MDA), 354 Munitions Squadron, USAF, DEVCOM AvMC TDD, 402nd Software Engineering Group, OUSD SBIR/STTR Program Office, and Stand-in Attack Division, Armament Directorate (AFLCMC/EBI).
4 Academic Researchers from leading institutions.
63 Industry Professionals representing companies at the forefront of software-enabled technologies.
A key feature of the event was the opportunity for industry members to engage in one-on-one meetings with government officials following the general sessions. These meetings allowed industry representatives to delve deeper into discussions, ask targeted questions, and provide government officials with valuable insights into current and future technological capabilities.
About the Academic Partnership Engagement Experiment (APEX)
APEX cultivates innovation by expanding the American research enterprise, accelerating the transition of defense technology from discovery to reality. We connect academic innovators with the Department of the Air Force and industry, eliminating barriers and accelerating the transition of science and technology solutions into transformational U.S. Air Force operational capabilities. APEX operates under a Partnership Intermediary Agreement with the Department of the Air Force and supports the United States Air Force Science & Technology 2030 Strategy.
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