“ Volusia County , the northern gateway to Florida ’ s Space Triangle , is well-positioned to support the space economy on a larger scale ,” comments Dr . P . Barry Butler , president of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University ( ERAU ), a leader in aerospace research and technology
Dr . P . Barry Butler
– with seven astronauts as alumni . He cites that conclusion from a recent report by Bryce Space & Technology that sets a path for aerospace opportunities in this central Florida Space Triangle .
ERAU ’ s 92-acre research park is in the forefront of Volusia ’ s technology progress . Just 3 ½ years old , the center has become a fast-growing success story , already boasting 18 space-related and other ‘ startup ’ companies developing their innovative technology into state-of-the-art products and services – as well serving as a resource for student interns to gain valuable experience in their future careers .
The futuristic-looking John Mica Engineering & Aerospace Innovation Complex – commonly called MicaPlex -- is the park ’ s cornerstone building . Named after the former U . S . congressman , the MicaPlex building houses most of the entrepreneurial companies that have sprouted from the research park , which also includes a 14,000 square foot wind tunnel facility and the Eagle
MicaPlex
Flight Research Center , equipped to conduct a variety of flightrelated projects . There also is the remaining open acreage for future development east and west of Clyde Morris Boulevard .
The park has generated more than $ 90 million in economic impact in Florida and directly or indirectly created 500 jobs , many of which are high-wage , notes a recent study by the independent Washington Economics Group ( WEG ).
As another major boost to Volusia ’ s progress in space-related jobs education , Daytona State College ( DSC ) students are gaining first-hand experience with the mechanics and automation leading to degrees in engineering technology . DSC ’ s impressive Advanced Technology College ( ATC ) on Williamson Boulevard also provides training in a variety of skills and trades that are needed to support space-related companies – welding , machining , air conditioning and heating , automotive services and even building and construction . There is a major continuing need for these services within the space coast industries , explains Frank Snyder , director of DSC ’ s School of Workforce Development . “ Every student who comes out of our program can find a job if they want it ,” he says .
Frank Snyder
DSC leaders are especially proud of the Advanced Manufacturing Center at the ATC campus . Featured are high-tech educational robots ( models of those used in the manufacturing world ), automation and 3D printing machines – and mechatronics modules simulating a manufacturing plant . “ When you think of all the industries this technology applies to , it ’ s limitless ,” Snyder comments .
Each component of the automation manufacturing room can work independently or in conjunction with each other . Only 1 ½ years old , the educators keep testing the equipment so the students can become fully capable of programming the robots to operate with the automated modules .
The college “ is very actively involved in the Florida high tech corridor and we are part of a consortium with Eastern Florida State College ( Brevard County ) that helped us develop our advanced welding , mechatronics and industrial maintenance offerings ” comments Dante Leon , associate
Dante Leon vice president of DSC ’ s College of Engineering and Technology .
ERAU and Daytona State College are another part of the engine
NOVEMBER 2020 | 9 |