Blogs

AROUND THE REGION - November 2024 Edition

By AFRL Regional Network Midwest Community posted 11-25-2024 10:21

  

Share Your TechConnect Experience!

Have you had the chance to use TechConnect? We're reaching out to gather feedback from members on their experiences connecting with the AFRL through this platform. 

Whether TechConnect has helped you connect, if you have questions, or need help closing the loop on a connection, we want to hear from you! Please email afrlmwst@purdue.edu to share your experiences. Your insights will help us improve access and ensure the platform serves you effectively.

If you haven't already, visit our TechConnect page to learn more and get connected with AFRL partners. 
Diane Collard, who leads the project "Reactive Cases for Enhanced Blast," has been highlighted by Purdue University for her role in improving the efficiency, effectiveness, and safety of energetic materials. 

Collard, a Research Scientist for the Purdue Energetics Research Center, and her team are developing reactive structures that enhance the blast effects of energetic materials. The goal is to use additive manufacturing to produce these materials. The project co-PI is Kelsea Miller, a Research Mechanical Engineer for AFRL RX.
    Learn more about this project

    Informational Q&A

    December 11, 2024, 11:00 AM EST
    https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/j/979150043250



    This session is an opportunity to discuss what matters most to you: funding, proposal content, AFRL collaborators, rubrics, network membership, micro-apprenticeships, and more.

    In attendance will be the AFRL Regional Network - Midwest Purdue Lead Program Manager, Amanda Ridge, and Purdue Director, Stacy Manni. Any questions or issues connecting should be directed     at afrlmwst@purdue.edu.

    When: April 24-25, 2025 
    Where:     Purdue University campus

    Mark your calendars for the AFRL Regional Network - Midwest annual meeting, which will include impactful discussions, networking, and insights into the latest innovation and research from the network. The tentative agenda will include:

    Thursday, April 24 (12:00-5:00 PM)
    • Lunch
    • Presentations / Discussions / Breakouts
    • Networking Dinner

    Friday, April 25 (8:00 AM-12:00 PM)
    • Networking Breakfast
    • Presentations / Discussions / Breakouts
    The team behind the project, "In-Space Laser Welding of High-Performance Alloys," completed a parabolic flight to test how welding equipment would perform in space. The goal of this project is to develop an autonomous welding system that reproduces the vacuum and temperature encountered during manufacturing, maintenance, and repair in space. Funding from the Midwest Regional Network has enabled the team to use titanium material in developing their system while also supporting the workforce development of several student researchers.

    The project is led by Antonio Ramirez, Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at The Ohio State University. Andrew Gillman and Arlene Smith in the AFRL Materials and Manufacturing (RX) Directorate are co-PIs.

      Learn more about this project
      Watch the flight in action

      The Internship Network in the Mathematical Sciences (INMAS) is a network of university math programs across the Midwest and the Mid-Atlantic that provides high quality training and internship experiences for students in Mathematical Sciences. The INMAS program offers companies access to pre-screened graduate students skilled in coding, modeling, and data analytics for targeted project support. This NSF-funded initiative provides a cost-effective way to bring fresh talent on board, with INMAS covering 50% of intern salaries.

      Starting with a simple introductory call, companies can outline potential projects and assess a candidate's fit without obligation. Once matched, interns are ready to dive in, backed by NDAs and tailored to meet specific needs. Resumes are available as early as January, and internships are expected to last 8-12 weeks during the summer, giving teams a valuable boost with minimal overhead. 
      Learn more about how to participate
      Stacy Manni, Purdue Director of the AFRL Regional Network - Midwest, attended the ribbon cutting for the University of Notre Dame's Mach 10 quiet tunnel. At the event, Manni connected with state, federal, and military leadership in strategic defense and discussed the Midwest Regional Network's technology transitions, workforce development opportunities, and commercialization activities. 

      This event was led by Jeff Rhoads, Notre Dame's Vice President for Research and the Midwest Regional Network's co-PI. We appreciate the opportunity to share our mission and successes and how we're addressing critical gaps in national defense research.
      The Air Force Civilian Service Premier College Internship Program is now accepting applications for Summer 2025. This program is an exceptional opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience and contribute to groundbreaking projects in fields like engineering, physics, computer science, and cybersecurity. This paid program offers aspiring STEM professionals a unique chance to work alongside AFRL scientists and engineers, gaining invaluable skills and insights that shape the future of defense technology.

      Students who participate in the program get to work on real-world projects that address critical Air Force missions, network with experts, access professional development resources and skill-building workshops, and gain experience in specialized research areas with national impact.

        Apply here

        The AFRL Regional Network - Midwest staff would like to wish all of our members a happy and restful Thanksgiving. We are thankful for everyone's contributions and hard work!

        Upcoming Events
        • Nov. 19, 2024: AFRL Regional Network - Midwest Open Information Session. Virtual - Zoom
        • Dec 3-5, 2024: Defense TechConnect Innovation Summit & Expo. Austin, TX
        • March 18-21, 2025: Encountering Innovation 9th Annual Conference. Kansas City, MO
        • March 28-30, 2025: IEEE Region 5 Meeting. Wichita, KS
        • April 1-2, 2025: Hypersonic Weapons Systems Conference. Huntsville, AL
        • April 24-25, 2025: AFRL Regional Network - Midwest Annual Meeting. West Lafayette, IN
        If you will be attending any of these events and would like an opportunity to meet, please email us at afrlmwst@purdue.edu. We'd be happy to schedule dedicated time to meet with you!

        Click here for more upcoming event information.

        Have you checked out the AFRL Regional Network - Midwest YouTube Channel? On this platform, partners have access to a variety of video content that includes:
        • Funded project video reports
        • Network promo videos
        • Informative and instructional videos
        Stay tuned to all of our social media channels as new content will be added frequently!

        Partner with Us


        The AFRL Regional Network - Midwest is a unique opportunity to partner with the Air Force Research Lab. If you are interested in becoming a partner, please visit our Join Page for more information!

        Get Featured in the Newsletter


        If you or your organization would like to be featured in an issue of Around the Region, please email us at afrlmwst@purdue.edu. A representative will then reach out to you for additional information.
        FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA OR VISIT OUR FAQ PAGE.
        0 comments
        6 views

        Related Content

        Permalink

        https://afrlmidwest.connectedcommunity.org/blogs/afrl-midwest-community/2024/11/25/around-the-region-november-2024-edition