As Systems Engineers we lead or participate in the development of complex systems which are then fielded either commercially, or, in the case of weapon systems, on the battle field.  But, when these products get into the hands of the everyday user, particularly our troops overseas, how well do they really work, especially when there may be several systems from different manufacturers being used in a “System of Systems”?  Learn the answer from two Army officers who have “been there and done that”.  This will be a most interesting and enlightening evening!

IMPORTANT:

Please RSVP to <jpalmer@usfamily.net> NLT noon, Wednesday, 16 November, so we know how much pizza to order!  There are no restrictions on who can attend.

Agenda:

• 6:15 – Socialize over pizza and soft drinks
• 6:45 – Welcome and Chapter overview – Paul Frenz, Chapter President
• 7:00 – Presentation – LTC Eric Larson US Army reserve & LTC Tim Loney US Army retired

“Military Systems In Theater”

• 8:30 – Adjourn

Presentation Overview: A personal discussion by two men who have hands on experience with how an ever increasing level of complex systems is weaving weapons, transportation, communication, surveillance, and defensive systems together in an international, joint, inter-agency  world.  They will explore how the average soldier is exposed to extremely complex systems in remotely operated weapons, automatic electronic defensive systems, and advanced communications systems to do their mission.  What kinds of problems does this create and how are they managed? For those who appreciate acronyms, the systems noted will include CRAM, CROWS, SINCGARS, MRAP, DUKE, FLIR, SIPR & NIPR.  

Speaker Bios:

Eric Larson: Eric has been with 3M since graduating from Michigan Tech in 1991 and is now a Senior Technical Advisor.  As a member of the corporate research laboratory that supports all divisions within the company, he has helped commercialize a variety of analog and digital embedded systems for different markets.  As Systems Engineering department manager he has successfully grown the department, introduced Systems Engineering concepts into 3M, has filed ten Records Of Invention and was nominated for corporate Technical Circle of Excellence award two times. However, at the same time he has maintained an active membership in the U.S. Army reserve, reaching the rank of Lt Colonel. His assignment has been to demonstrate leadership and technical proficiency in a variety of military areas while maintaining combat engineer expertise.  He is currently Commander for the 367th Engineer Battalion, St. Cloud, MN, which is an 1100 person command located in 5 states and 14 locations with multiple elements deployed supporting the Global War on Terror.  In the performance of duty he has received the Bronze Star Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, and many other awards for outstanding performance.  He has deployed twice, to Kosovo ’04-05 and Iraq ’08-09 with his assigned units receiving awards and accolades for performance and achievement. 

Tim Loney: Tim’s bio was not available in time for this announcement but will be provided in the next one.  Suffice it say, he also has extensive experience in the field.

Driving Directions to Ridgedale Public Library at 12601 Ridgedale Dr. in Minnetonka (see map below).

• The Ridgedale Library is on the south side of the Ridgedale Shopping Center just east of I494 and off I394.  It has a large, beautifully set up meeting room.
• From any direction

• ·         Find your way to I394
• ·         Take I394 west if coming from Minneapolis or east if coming off I494.
• ·         If travelling west on I394, take exit 1C to Ridgedale Drive.
• ·         Turn left (south) on Ridgedale Dr. and proceed around Ridgedale Center to the south side.  The library will be on your left just before Plymouth Rd.
• ·         If coming off I494 onto I394, take exit 1C to Plymouth Rd.
• ·         At the light, turn left (south) on Plymouth Road and proceed to Ridgedale Dr.
• ·         Turn left on Ridgedale Dr.  The library will be on your immediate right.
• ·         Park in the lot and come in any of the doors at the front of the building.
• ·         Do not go upstairs to the main library but, inside, walk to the left towards the Hennepin County Library Office.
• ·         You will see the Robert H Rols meeting room on your left just before the office.