ARNOLD AIR FORCE BASE, Tenn. -- Building off the success of this year’s AEDC Spark Tank program, AEDC personnel are once again being asked to submit their latest innovative ideas for the next one starting Oct. 1.
All AEDC team members, including DOD civilians and contractors across all AEDC units, including those geographically separated, who have suggestions for improving or simplifying day-to-day operations or know of a possible cost-savings are invited to share these ideas. Doing so could lead to funding of their innovation.
“No idea is too big or too small,” said Dr. Justin Garrard, project manager for the Innovation Grant project with the Test Operations and Sustainment contractor. “The Spark Tank is meant to allow AEDC employees the opportunity to present their ideas on how to improve current AEDC processes, products, or test capabilities. We had several great projects submitted during our last call for ideas, and we hope even more AEDC team members will submit this next go-round.”
Submissions will be accepted through Dec. 31. The ideas will then be reviewed by a board, and the Spark Tank forum is anticipated for mid-February. Those selected to present to the Spark Tank panel will receive an email to schedule their briefing. Team leads will be asked to pitch their submission to board members and feedback will be provided on all submissions presented.
“We are looking for process improvement, or ideas for the use of new technologies. All will be considered in the Spark Tank initiative,” said Michael Glennon, a senior engineer and AEDC innovation-lead for the AEDC Technical Management, Plans and Programs office.
The expected funding period of the innovation projects chosen, as part of the AEDC Spark Tank, is March 1 to Aug. 15, 2023.
Submission templates may be found on AEDC SharePoint under AEDC Science and Engineering Information. Final submissions should be placed in the “2023 AEDC Spark Tank Submissions” folder prior to the December deadline. Look for the direct link to be posted soon in an announcement on the AEDC SharePoint site.
Those with questions or wishing to receive additional information on the AEDC Spark Tank may contact Garrard or Glennon.