Digital Design Concept Wins AFMC Spark Tank Integrated Capabilities Challenge

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https://media.defense.gov/2023/Oct/20/2003325046/-1/-1/0/231019-F-ZS999-1003.JPG
Gen. Duke Z. Richardson (left), Commander, Air Force Materiel Command, gets ready to announce the winner of the AFMC Spark Tank Integrated Capabilities Challenge, Oct. 19, at Headquarters, Air Force Materiel Command. The AFMC Spark Tank is an annual competition that leverages the inherent innovation of Airmen and Guardians, empowering them to use their problem-solving skills and creativity to solve the service’s most critical needs (source: U.S. DoD).

November 1, 2023 | Originally published by The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) on October 20, 2023

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio — A novel idea to revolutionize capability development through optimized digital engineering is the winner of the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) Spark Tank Integrated Capabilities challenge.

Douglas Szczublewski, Next Gen Capabilities Lead and aerospace engineer, Aerospace Systems Directorate, U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, presented his team’s winning concept for Digital Effectiveness Based Design to a panel of leaders during the AFMC Senior Leader Conference on October 19. It will now go on to receive support and funding for implementation in AFMC engineering processes.

“All of the ideas were great. There was no clear winner in our discussions—people were fighting for each one of the ideas!” said Richardson following presentations by the three AFMC competition semi-finalists. “I want to see the command follow through on all three ideas. They all fall under a ‘let’s just do it’ construct.”

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