Bossier City Welcomes New Innovation Lab at the STRIKEWERX Hub
What a fantastic day it was in Bossier City on November 4th! Local and state dignitaries gathered at the Cyber Innovation Center to celebrate the grand opening of a dynamic new innovation lab within the STRIKEWERX Innovation Hub. This exciting facility, welcomed by the Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) Office of the Chief Scientist, aims to push the boundaries of technology with a focus on providing better tools for our dedicated Airmen.
Excitement in the Air
Dr. Donna Senft, who serves as the Chief Scientist for AFGSC, shared her enthusiasm at the event. “I am excited about the opening of the Innovation Lab, which will provide tools for our Airmen to quickly fabricate prototype solutions to the problems they encounter in their jobs,” she said, clearly passionate about the potential of this new space. And she has every reason to be excited! The hub has now expanded its footprint by nearly 2,000 square feet, which means a lot more room to innovate.
High-Tech Tools Galore
The new lab is brimmed with exciting equipment and capabilities that include augmented reality and virtual reality (AR/VR) headsets, powerful computers for modeling and simulation, three cutting-edge 3D printers, and a handheld 3D scanner. There’s even a dedicated makerspace for all things prototyping!
“The innovation that is going to take place here is not only going to impact the men and women that are serving our country at Barksdale, but the men and women that are serving Air Force Global Strike Command at all those other bases,” shared Kevin Nolten, president of the Cyber Innovation Center. His words rang true as everyone present could sense the rippling effects this lab may have across the Air Force.
A Space for Learning and Collaboration
This new state-of-the-art lab offers Airmen an opportunity to dive deep into the latest technologies such as AR/VR, work with innovative software development programs, and even create rough prototypes for physical solutions to real-world problems. It’s not just about machines and gadgets, though. The lab has also been designed as a designated place for demonstrations and presentations, enhancing the connection with both industry and academic partners. Such collaboration can lead to groundbreaking developments that directly benefit our servicemen and women.
The Community Reacts
The opening of this innovation lab hasn’t just excited the military community; it has also stirred feelings of pride within the local community. Many recognize that advancements made here could bring not only technological progress but also potential economic growth to Bossier City. The thought of local talents working on cutting-edge solutions builds a sense of unity and excitement about the future.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles from this grand opening, there are high hopes that the innovation lab will become a hub of creativity and excellence. With its advanced tools and collaborative spaces, it’s designed to foster innovation from the ground up. This initiative represents a commitment to support our Airmen and to bolster the readiness of the military at large.
Bossier City stands ready to embrace this new chapter of innovation and progress, and the future looks bright indeed! Keep your eyes peeled for the incredible advancements that will emerge from this new lab in the months and years to come.
