Air Mobility Command fosters industry collaboration for innovation

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Stephenie Wade
  • Air Mobility Command Public Affairs

Air Mobility Command hosted more than 100 industry partners here July 27, 2016, providing an opportunity for industry to collaborate, network and strengthen relationships.

Gen. Carlton D. Everhart II, Air Mobility Command commander, said this event provides a great opportunity for AMC to share its 30-year vision regarding aircraft recapitalization, aeromedical evolution, defensive systems technology and more. His primary goal for this event was for AMC and industry partners to continue to work together to better meet the needs of preparing mobility Airmen for tomorrow.

“This is just the start of improving our collaboration process,” said Everhart. “Collaboration reduces cost escalation and encourages novel solutions to shape the 21st-century. Now is the time for us, industry and Mobility Airmen, to further our innovation efforts and continue to enhance the Air Force’s capabilities in areas such as manufacturing, autonomous systems and standardizing our fleet.”

Following Everhart were discussions led by the directors of intelligence, operations, logistics, strategic plans and communications in addition to AMC’s chief scientist.

Topics included concepts on how to improve intelligence analysts’ access to real-time reports that all domains can understand; communication systems which can sustain electromagnetic pulse; the use of 3-D modeling to print non-critical parts and eventually essential parts; aircrews using new technology to communicate and transmit important data while inflight to the ground; enhancing virtual training environments; improving airdrop precision without the use of GPS; and capability to decontaminate larger aircraft while preventing corrosion in a post-nuclear environment.

To best execute the mission, AMC needs help from industries to match plans for the future with resources, said Maj. Gen. Thomas Sharpy, Strategic Plans, Requirements and Programs director.

“If the technology doesn’t exist, the question is ‘how do we get it,’” said Sharpy. “If we, as a total force, work together, we can find an integrated solution that makes ideas reality and will not only benefit the Air Force, but the Department of the Defense.

"This day was the first step toward ensuring our warfighters are equipped with the right tools to be successful in their mission to deliver unrivaled global reach for America well into the next decade and beyond,” he said.

AMC is planning additional events with industry partners. Upcoming opportunities include the Airlift/Tanker Association Convention scheduled for Oct. 27 to 30, 2016; National Defense Transportation Association United States Transportation Command fall meeting scheduled for Oct. 31 to Nov. 3, 2016; and the 2017 Air Warfare Symposium.