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Past Meetings

October 5, 2023  

RISC-V Thunderbird Soc for HPC and AI Applications


--->  Please note this week's meeting was moved from September.
 
It will be a virtual meeting.
Zoom info will be sent approximately 20 hrs before the meeting. <---

 
Please excuse the small font below, to register for this event, please

go here.


Presentation slides
Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting.
Topic: RISC-V Thunderbird SOC for HPC and AI Applications
Abstract:

 
Doug will give an overview of Austin-based InspireSemi's disruptive next generation Thunderbird compute accelerator for HPC&AI applications. This RISC-V based "supercomputer-cluster-on-a-chip" packs 1,800 high performance CPU cores (all FP64 double-precision of their own design) onto a single SOC. For maximum/predictable performance and low latency, these CPU cores are all interconnected with their high bandwidth, low-latency mesh interconnect that can connect up to 256 of Thunderbird chips. After 3 years of customer-driven development, the chip is in final verification and will tape out at the end of September to TSMC. He will also share why the team chose to leverage the open hardware RISC-V ISA vs. other options and provide an overview of some of the many initiatives in the thriving RISC-V ecosystem.

Speaker

Doug Norton

Speaker's bio


Doug Norton

is the Chief Marketing Officer at Inspire Semiconductor.  InspireSemi is an Austin-based company delivering a breakthrough next-generation accelerated computing solution for HPC, AI, and graph analytics applications that leverages the open standard RISC-V ISA (Instruction Se Architecture).

Doug began his career in product development at IBM and moved into the sales & marketing organization to expand IBM's reach into new engineering/scientific markets. He then went on to various senior leadership positions at Cadence Design Systems, CoWare, Newisys, Virtual Instruments, Nimbix, and other early-stage companies.

 

Doug is also President of the Society of HPC Professionals (SHPCP), a non-profit, vendor-neutral organization whose purpose is to educate and connect the HPC user community, industry, and academia with state-of-the-art technology and best practices. He is also a contributor to the RISC-V International SIG-HPC as well as the RISC-V marketing and events committees. He serves on the Venture Mentoring Service for the Austin Technology Incubator (ATI) at The University of Texas and is a technology and business advisor to HealthClicks. Doug earned a BS in Electrical Engineering cum laude from Missouri University of Science & Technology.


Date & Time: Thursday, September 21, 2023 : 6:00 - 7:30pm
Location:
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.


If you are interested in professional career development and cross-training in varied technical fields, please consider joining the Central Texas Consultants Network. And bring a colleague!

Presentation materials, if available, may be obtained after the meeting through the Past Meetings page.



Other meetings and events of interest:


Free IEEE-USA Webinars

IEEE-USA's webinars are designed to help you find your next job, elevate your career, negotiate your salary, understand workplace ethics, develop soft skills and more.


Please Join us for our upcoming free webinars:

Data-Driven Innovation: Harnessing The Power of Focused Data

When: Wednesday, 04 October 2023 - 2 PM ET Details / Registration: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/373732

Innovation is exhilarating, yet without direction, it can lead to spiraling costs and misplaced efforts. How often do fresh ideas lead to overwhelming brainstorming sessions, escalating expenses, and inflated hopes? Many leading corporations have implemented robust systems to streamline innovation endeavors, ensuring maximum ROI and minimized risks. Central to these systems is the strategic use of precise data. In this enlightening talk, we will delve into:

  • The significance of patent data in uncovering innovation prospects.
  • The spectrum of data essential for locating innovation opportunities.
  • Strategies to leverage this data for both immediate and future requirements.

Join us to discover how data-driven insights can transform your innovation journey.

------

IEEE-USA Talking Tech: MEGATRENDS

 When: Wednesday, 18 October 2023 - 10 AM ET Details / Registration: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/374982

External factors unrelated to technology that include global pandemics and wars have influenced the development and applications of technology. As a result, the world has transformed itself and it continues to evolve and reinvent itself through technology. Technology is a key enabler of global transformation driven by comprehensive developments, often called "Megatrends." Megatrends coalesce around multiple interacting or mutually dependent developments, last for a long time, and have broad impacts not just to technology, but to business, society and the environment. Simply put, they impact all of humanity. In this talk we present predictions of individual technology developments as well as megatrends.

August 17, 2023  Introduction to Solar Weather

--->  Please note this month's meeting is on the 3rd Thursday.
 
It will be a virtual meeting.
Zoom info will be sent approximately 20 hrs before the meeting. <---

 
Please excuse the small font below, to register for this event, please

go here.


Presentation slides
Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting.
Topic: Introduction to Solar Weather
Abstract:

High Frequency (HF) radio propagation is dependent on solar weather. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun creates and sustains the ionosphere. Solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and coronal holes, also from the sun, can deteriorate or disrupt HF propagation. This presentation will introduce the positive and negative effects of solar weather on HF propagation and how a HF radio operator can detect and compensate for these effects to maintain HF communications.

Speaker

Lewis Thompson

email: w5ifq@att.net

Speaker's bio


Lewis Thompson

is a Senior Engineering Scientist (mostly retired) at Applied Research Laboratories, University of Texas at Austin. He is a Registered Professional Engineer in the state of Texas and a member of IEEE and Sigma Xi. During his 44 years of employment, he worked in the areas of underwater acoustics, and radio communications. He has been a licensed amateur radio operator since 1961 and is now licensed Extra Class. He held amateur radio positions including President of the Austin Amateur Radio Club, RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service) as District Radio Operator (DRO-62) and Assistant Emergency Coordinator for TCARES (Travis County Amateur Radio Emergency Service). He is presently the VP of the Austin Amateur Radio Club. He joined the Army MARS (Military Auxiliary Radio System) in 2006 and served as Texas State MARS Director from 2009 to 2011. He is the Liaison to the Texas Military Forces for Region 6 Army MARS and teaches classes to the Texas Military Forces in HF (High Frequency) radio propagation and antenna theory. a fractional CMO and marketing gunslinger, motivational speaker, and humorist who enjoys giving people belly laughs and making people believe in themselves. Elizabeth encourages you to find your passion, to live your best life, and to achieve your goals with confidence, accountability, gratitude, balance, and fun!
Date & Time: Thursday, August 17, 2023 : 6:00 - 7:30pm
Location:
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.


If you are interested in professional career development and cross-training in varied technical fields, please consider joining the Central Texas Consultants Network. And bring a colleague!

Presentation materials, if available, may be obtained after the meeting through the Past Meetings page.



Other meetings and events of interest:



Free IEEE-USA Webinars

IEEE-USA's webinars are designed to help you find your next job, elevate your career, negotiate your salary, understand workplace ethics, develop soft skills and more.


IEEE-USA Webinar: Building Strong Strategic Networking Skills Builds A Successful Career

When: Wednesday, 09 August 2023 - 2 PM ET Details / Registration: events.vtools.ieee.org/..

This webinar will help attendees with:

  • Building in-person successful networking skills for first and lasting impressions that establish and strengthen strategic business relationships.
  • Creating and delivering brief, creative, impressive statements for external and internal networking describing the why, what and how you work and essential active next steps.
  • Being memorable to each person you meet; consistently present confident, positive nonverbal and verbal communications skills
  • Successfully working a room, details for before, during and after an event, how to survey the crowd, approach strangers, break into a group, comfortably disengage, understand generational and cultural nuances.
  • In 5 minutes, make connections, or not, then disengage and move on.
  • Build long-term networking skills that are essential and valuable for continued career development and accessing unknown opportunities.
  • Build strong one-on-one networks with individuals you know or are referred to you.
  • How to reestablish past connects.



Alliance of IEEE Consultants Network (AICN) Newsletter

IEEE 2nd Qtr 2023 AICN Newsletter

IEEE 1st Qtr 2023 AICN Newsletter



The IEEE Central Texas Consultants Network is an affinity group of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE) Region 5 Central Texas Section.

Objective

The Consultants Network promotes the development of members' careers through professional and social networking, including publicizing members' skills and sharing potential professional opportunities, and supports the IEEE Central Texas Section.

Meetings - General Information

The Consultants Network meets monthly. Except when meeting jointly with other groups, the Consultants Network meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Meetings usually begin with informal networking from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m., followed by presentations from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. by experts in technology, marketing, sales, advertising, financial or legal needs of small businesses and special needs of consultants


July 20, 2023  Generative AI, New Tools and Applications

--->  Please note this month's meeting is on the 3rd Thursday.
 
It will be a virtual meeting.
Zoom info will be sent approximately 20 hrs before the meeting. <---

 
Please excuse the small font below, to register for this event, please

go here.


Elizabeth gave us a lot of good information in the meeting.

Some of these links are in the For more information box below.

Presentation slides
Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting.
Topic: Generative AI, New Tools and Applications
Abstract:

This is a conversation on the recent AI development. Elizabeth will give a brief history of AI, the current major players and products, as well as potential applications. She will do a short demo on one of the tools and open the meeting for interactive discussion.

Speaker

Elizabeth Quintanilla 

Speaker's bio


Elizabeth Quintanilla

is a fractional CMO and marketing gunslinger, motivational speaker, and humorist who enjoys giving people belly laughs and making people believe in themselves. Elizabeth encourages you to find your passion, to live your best life, and to achieve your goals with confidence, accountability, gratitude, balance, and fun!
Date & Time: Thursday, July 20, 2023 : 6:00 - 7:30pm
Location:
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.
For more information.

If you are interested in professional career development and cross-training in varied technical fields, please consider joining the Central Texas Consultants Network. And bring a colleague!

Presentation materials, if available, may be obtained after the meeting through the Past Meetings page.



Other meetings and events of interest:



Free IEEE-USA Webinars

IEEE-USA's webinars are designed to help you find your next job, elevate your career, negotiate your salary, understand workplace ethics, develop soft skills and more.



Alliance of IEEE Consultants Network (AICN) Newsletter

IEEE 2nd Qtr 2023 AICN Newsletter

IEEE 1st Qtr 2023 AICN Newsletter



IEEE Central Texas - Social Media Sites

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/groups/IEEE-Central-Texas-Section-113053
Twitter https://twitter.com/ieeeCTX , please use hashtag #IEEECTS in tweets regarding the Section
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/IEEE-Central-Texas/1479239548969920
IEEE Collabratec https://services10.ieee.org/idp/startSSO.ping?PartnerSpId=PPCTIEEE&TARGET=https://ieee-collabratec.ieee.org/rest/signin

June 15, 2023  On the Evolution Toward 6G


--->  Please note this month's meeting is on the 3rd Thursday.
 
It will be a virtual meeting.
Zoom info will be sent approximately 20 hrs before the meeting. <---

 
Please excuse the small font below, to register for this event, please

go here.

Presentation_Slides
Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting.
Topic: On the Evolution Toward 6G
Abstract:

5G has influenced the worldwide co-evolution of multiple standards in diverse areas and driven advances in various sectors, including telemedicine, smart grids, transportation, factories, satellite, IoT, and many others. The modern 5G wireless internet requires the integration of service-based applications, transport protocols, IP networks, and Radio Access, with quality of service vertically integrated by current 3GPP cellular protocols. As the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and 3GPP frame future capability beyond 5G, 6G wireless research ushers in an era of application scenarios involving Enhanced Mobile Broadband Plus (eMBB-Plus), Ultra-High- Speed with Low Latency Communications (uHSLLC), Secure Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communications (SURLLC). Emerging 6G trends also point towards an intelligence era across multiple 6G protocol stack layers. This presentation gives an overview of 5G evolution and what's next in 6G.

Speaker

Dr. Brian Kelly

Speaker's bio


Dr. Brian Kelly

is an Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering in advanced communication at the KLESSE College of Engineering, Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). His research interests include 5G-SA, 6G System, 6G-AI, Security, Augmented Reality wireless, 5G Telemedicine, and connected Autonomous Vehicles. He has over 70 refereed publications, holds 11 U.S. patents, and spent 10+ years in the Telecommunication industry with Motorola. In 2023 Dr. Kelley was named Principal Investigator in Future G Advanced Research with OUSD (R&E). From 2020-2023, Dr. Kelley was 5G Principal Investigator for two major programs: 5G Core Capabilities & Security Program and 5G Telemedicine Program, JBSA 5G Program Management Office and OUSD(R&E). At JBSA, Dr. Kelley led the R&D for an experimental, multi-sited 5G-SA System encompassing advanced security, Augmented Reality for Telemedicine (broadband eMBB), Network Slicing, ultra-reliable low latency (URLLC), resiliency, and 5G edge computing.  Dr. Kelley received his BSEE from Cornell University, graduating Tau Beta Pi and Eta Kappa Nu. He received his MSEE & Ph.D. in E.E. from the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he was an Office of Naval Research Fellow and a Georgia Tech Presidential Fellow. In 2021, Dr. Kelley was named a Day One Technology Policy Accelerator Fellow in 5G Connected Autonomous Vehicles by the Day One Project and recipient of an NSF REU grant in 5G Electric Vehicles.
Date & Time: Thursday, June 15, 2023 : 6:00 - 7:30pm
Location:
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.


May 4, 2023  Field Trip


--->  Please note we have a field trip in the first week of May.
We currently do not have a regular program planned. Please watch this space for updates. <---

 
Please excuse the small font below, to register for this event, please

go here.

Presentation_Slides
Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting.
Topic:
Meeting at Wildflower Center Entrance at 9:30 AM.  Please carpool if you can for limited parking space.  This will be a walking tour.  Please inform us if you need mobility help.
Abstract:

Austin Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is the Botanic Garden of Texas. The Center promotes its mission to inspire the conservation of native plants through its internationally recognized sustainable gardens, education and outreach programs, and research projects. www.wildflower.org/about/overview for more information.

We are inviting all IEEE Central Texas Life Members and your spouse to enjoy a Spring day morning walk in the Lady Johnson Wildflower Center on May 4, 2023.  We have been doing hybrid meetings for few years and hope to meet in person to renew our companionship and share your latest story. 

Directiion from Austin downtown, head south on Loop 1 (MoPac) for approximately 10 miles. Take a left on La Crosse Avenue. The main entrance is toward the end of the road on the right. Parking is available but limited. If the lot is full, you may park on La Crosse Avenue.

Agenda


9;30 AM -  Meet in the entrance of the Wildflower Center
9:45 AM -  LMAG will pay for the admission fee and enter the Center. 
10:00 AM to 11:30 AM - Group Tour (with Doccent or self guide)
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM -   Buy your own lunch at the Cafe
1:30 PM - Adjourn the event. 

The Life Members Affinity Group and  Austin Consultants Network Affinity Group (CTCN) meets monthly. Except when meeting jointly with other groups, the CTCN meet on the third thursday each month. Meetings usually begin with informal networking from 6:00 to 6:10 p.m., followed by presentations from 6:15 to 7:30 p.m. by experts in topics of interest to IEEE Members.   Our meetings are open to the public.

Speaker's bio




Date & Time: Thursday, May 4, 2023 : 9:30am - 1:30pm
Location:
  • Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
  • 4801 La Crosse Ave.
  • Austin, Texas
  • United States 78738 
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

If you are interested in professional career development and cross-training in varied technical fields, please consider joining the Central Texas Consultants Network. And bring a colleague!

Presentation materials, if available, may be obtained after the meeting through the Past Meetings page.



Other meetings and events of interest:



Free IEEE-USA Webinars

IEEE-USA's webinars are designed to help you find your next job, elevate your career, negotiate your salary, understand workplace ethics, develop soft skills and more.

How to Vet a Company and Take the Right Offer

It's likely with a hot skill set, you'll end up with at least two or three offers in 2023, but how do you know which one is the best for you?  Elizabeth Lions will join us for our final "How to Find a New Job in 2023 Series" webinar and outline critical steps to take before accepting any offer, to ensure you have the right job in front of you. She will also help you answer questions around salary expectations in job interviews, explain total compensation and perks you can ask for - and get - in this market.




Alliance of IEEE Consultants Network (AICN) Newsletter

IEEE 1st Qtr 2023 AICN Newsletter




April 20, 2023  Zoom Meeting Only


--->  Please note this month's meeting is on the 3rd Thursday on Zoom <---

 
Please excuse the small font below, to register for this event, please

go here.

Presentation_Slides
Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting.
Topic: A Normative Model for Decision Making
Abstract:

Most decisions have two requirements: They should be “good”, and secondly when others are involved, they should be agreed to.  The normative decision model provides a decision tree with 8 critical factors that determine, not what a decision should be, but how the decision should be made.  This talk use a common, relevant scenario – whether or not to require a team to terminate remote work and return to the office – to walk through the model. The talk will end with a discussion on how the model generalizes and provides alternatives for anyone faced with the challenge of making a good decision.

Speaker:

Karl Arunski
email:karlarunski@hotmail.com

Speaker's bio


Karl Arunski, is a retired systems engineer and director of engineering and mission assurance in the defense industry.  In parallel with his professional career, he developed and taught graduate-level systems engineering, management, and leadership courses at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.  He is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and holds a MS-EE degree from Washington University in St. Louis. He currently serves as the Vice President of Education for the IEEE Technology and Engineering Management Society.


Date & Time: Thursday, April 20 2023 : networking at 6:30 p.m., business and program from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
Location:
    Zoom login information will be sent about 20 hours before the meeting.
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

If you are interested in professional career development and cross-training in varied technical fields, please consider joining the Central Texas Consultants Network. And bring a colleague!

Presentation materials, if available, may be obtained after the meeting through the Past Meetings page.



Other meetings and events of interest:

To view complete details for this event, click here to view the announcement

TECO-Westinghouse Plant Tour


Registration is Required


(PI)2, Joint Chapter of PES/IES/IAS/PELS/PSES is sponsoring a TECO-Westinghouse Plant Tour.

We are pleased to invite you to join us for a plant tour on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at 7:00 PM at the TECO-Westinghouse facility. This will be an exciting opportunity to see our state-of-the-art machine production line and witness our innovative manufacturing processes. These high-quality machines are used to drive pumps, fans, compressors, rolling mills, grinders, crushers, and a variety of other rugged applications. These motors and generators are utilized in petroleum, chemical, pulp, paper, mining, marine propulsion, steel, electric utility, and other industries throughout the world.

During the tour, you will have the chance to learn about the company's history, mission, and vision for the future. You will also have the opportunity to meet with knowledgeable staff and ask any questions you may have about their products, services, operations, and applications.

Please note that due to safety concerns, all attendees must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including closed-toe shoes and safety glasses. We will provide the necessary PPE if you do not have your own.

To confirm your attendance, please RSVP by Sunday, May 7, 2023, at 8:00 PM by registering in vTools. Must be 12 years or older to attend. 

We look forward to welcoming you to the facility and sharing our passion for technical learning and manufacturing excellence.

Best regards,

Contact:  James Mercier, Evan Rogers, Eric Meier, or Steve Pearson;  for additional information.

Date and Time

  • Date: 09 May 2023
  • Time: 07:00 PM to 08:00 PM
  • All times are (UTC-06:00) Central Time (US & Canada)
  • Add_To_Calendar_iconAdd Event to Calendar

Location

  • 5100 N. IH-35,
  • Round Rock, Texas
  • United States 78681
  • Building: TECO-Westinghouse

Hosts

Registration

  • Starts 08 April 2023 02:27 AM
  • Ends 07 May 2023 08:00 PM
  • All times are (UTC-06:00) Central Time (US & Canada)
  • No Admission Charge

Agenda

7:00 PM: Check-in

7:10 PM: Safety Briefing

7:15 PM: Tour Begins

8:15 PM: Wrap Discussions

This a great opportunity to network, share application stories, and learn what makes TECO-Westinghouse different.



Free IEEE-USA Webinars

IEEE-USA's webinars are designed to help you find your next job, elevate your career, negotiate your salary, understand workplace ethics, develop soft skills and more.

How to Vet a Company and Take the Right Offer

It's likely with a hot skill set, you'll end up with at least two or three offers in 2023, but how do you know which one is the best for you?  Elizabeth Lions will join us for our final "How to Find a New Job in 2023 Series" webinar and outline critical steps to take before accepting any offer, to ensure you have the right job in front of you. She will also help you answer questions around salary expectations in job interviews, explain total compensation and perks you can ask for - and get - in this market.




Alliance of IEEE Consultants Network (AICN) Newsletter

IEEE 1st Qtr 2023 AICN Newsletter


Mar 16, 2023 Meeting - Zoom Meeting Only

--->  Please note this month's meeting is on the 3rd Thurs <---

Of interest to consultants:

Presentation slides
Presentation video

Reservations:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting.
Topic:
RISC-V an Unlimited Future
Abstract:
RISC-V is rapidly becoming one of the most widely deployed Instruction Set Architectures in the world. In this talk Drew Barbier, SiFive's Senior Director of Product Management, will introduce RISC-V and explain why it has become so successful in the industry and about SiFive, a company that was founded by the inventors of RISC-V and who are leaders in the RISC-V community.
Speaker:

Drew Barbier, Senior Director of Product Management, SiFive

email: drew@sifive.com

Speaker's bio


Drew Barbier  has worked in the Semiconductor industry for over 15 years in a number of engineering and customer-facing roles. Drew joined SiFive in early 2017 and currently is Senior Director of Product Management responsible for SiFive’s RISC-V Core IP portfolio.


Date & Time: Thursday,  Mar 16 2023 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location:
    Zoom
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

If you are interested in professional career development and cross-training in varied technical fields, please consider joining the Central Texas Consultants Network. And bring a colleague!

Presentation materials, if available, may be obtained after the meeting through the Past Meetings page.


Other meetings and events of interest:

Technology Advisors Group:

Come to TAG’s Mar 24th meeting from 8:00-9:00am.

        Topic: How the Metaverse will revolutionize education
        Speaker: Matthew Hightower, CEO of Class2Class

Registration and more information: https://www.tagaustin.org/


IEEE-USA Free Financial Literacy Webinar

This session will cover multiple aspects of managing your personal finances including spending, goal setting, understanding your credit score, and managing debt.

Alliance of IEEE Consultants Network (AICN) Newsletter

IEEE 4th Qtr AICN Newsletter


Feb 16, 2023 Meeting - Zoom Meeting Only

--->  Please note this month's meeting is on the 3rd Thurs <---

Of interest to consultants:


In today's economic environment, asset and income protection is more important than ever. Please join Graham Fuller from AMBA as he leads a conversation about how to protect your assets and income by leveraging Life and Disability and other forms of insurance to help ensure that the life you have created for you and your loved ones remains secure in the event of the unexpected.


Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting.
Topic:

2023 Investment Market Outlook

Abstract:

Inflation and high interest rates had been carried over from 2022 to 2023. We started 2023 with a number of big tech companies announced layoff. Recession is being discussed and planned in most business board rooms. How is the investment market for 2023?

Mr. William B Greiner will be reviewing economic, market and fiscal trends for 2023. He will be providing information on key metrics and news headlines that support their outlook for 2023. Bill will also share their thoughts around the individual market sectors and provide insight on their valuations.

Speaker:

William B Greiner of Mariner Wealth Advisors.

email:

Speaker's bio


William B. Greiner, CFA, is the chief economist of Mariner Wealth Advisors (MWA). Bill drives the economic and capital markets outlook for the firm and supports the investment team with tactical asset allocation decisions. His capital markets and investment experience span nearly 40 years.

Prior to joining MWA, he was chief investment officer and president of Scout Investments, where he was directly responsible for the Scout Investments Global Equity investment process. Bill started with Scout’s parent company, UMB, in 1999. During his time with UMB, he was the chief investment officer of UMB Bank and was responsible for all UMB portfolio managers. He also served as chairman of the UMB Asset Allocation and Large Cap Equity Strategy Committees. Before joining UMB, Bill worked for Northern Trust Company in Chicago.

Bill has a bachelor’s degree in economics and finance from Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas. He is a member of the CFA Institute and the Kansas City CFA Society.

*Mariner Wealth Advisors (“MWA”), is an SEC registered investment adviser with its principal place of business in the State of Kansas.


Date & Time: Thursday,  Feb 16 2023 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location:
    Zoom
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

If you are interested in professional career development and cross-training in varied technical fields, please consider joining the Central Texas Consultants Network. And bring a colleague!

Presentation materials, if available, may be obtained after the meeting through the Past Meetings page.


Other meetings and events of interest:

Technology Advisors Group:

Come to TAG’s Feb 24th meeting from 8:00-9:00am. Details will be available soon.

Registration and more information: https://www.tagaustin.org/


Alliance of IEEE Consultants Network (AICN) Newsletter

IEEE 4th Qtr AICN Newsletter

November 17, 2022 Meeting

Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting.
Topic:

INDEPENDENT FOR LIFE --

Homes and Neighborhoods for an Aging America

Abstract:

When you eventually retire, do you want to age independently in your own home and neighborhood? Staying home and aging in place is most people's preference, but most American housing and communities are not adapted to the needs of older people. And with the fastest population growth among people over 65, finding solutions for successful aging is important, not just for individual families, but for our whole society. This talk covers a wide range of smart solutions, including adapting technology, remodeling current housing, building new homes for accessibility and safety, retrofitting existing neighborhoods to add needed services and amenities, and planning new communities that work well for people of all ages.

Speaker:


Wayne Caswell, founder of Modern Health Talk
 email: WayneCaswell@mHealthTalk.com

Speaker's bio


Wayne Caswell is a retired IBM technologist, futurist, market strategist, consumer advocate, and founder of Modern Health Talk (mhealthtalk.com). After 30 years at IBM, he established CAZITech Consulting, held leadership roles in industry groups developing Wireless and Home Gateway standards, served on the FCC Consumer Advisory Committee, successfully lobbied the Texas legislature to protect the rights of municipalities to install public Wi-Fi networks, and co-founded a nonprofit homeowner advocacy group to enact new consumer protection laws and abolish an abusive state agency. After that he founded Modern Health Talk to add perspective to the issues of independent living and health care policy.


Date & Time: Thursday, November 17 2022 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location:
    Zoom login information will be sent about 20 hours before the meeting.
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

October 20, 2022 Meeting -

Live Meeting at Asian American Resource Center and also on Zoom


--->  Please note this month's meeting is both live in person and virtual on Zoom.
It will be on the 3rd Thursday this month. <---

 
Please excuse the small font below, to register for this event, please

go here.

Presentation_Slides
Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting.
Topic:

Extreme Value Analysis

Abstract:

Extreme Value Analysis (EVA) is a statistical methodology for making inferences about rare events, typically ones that can result in severe consequences, such as extreme weather, financial risks, material/equipment failures, epidemics, solar cycles, insurance losses, and much more. This talk will provide an introduction to EVA, including the theoretical basis for it, a demonstration of EVA computations using Python and R, and specific examples of its use in practice.

Speaker:

Al Reich
email: al.reich@gmail.com

Speaker's bio


Al Reich’s area of specialty is probability & mathematical statistics. Al worked in industry for his entire career (40+ years) in the area of scientific computing, including Space Shuttle onboard & ground navigation analyses, machine reasoning for automated planning, resolution enhancement technologies, such as optical proximity correction, for semiconductor manufacturing, and machine learning for cyber-security. Al retired in 2017 and spends his time painting, computing, and e-biking. (More at https://linktr.ee/alreich)


Date & Time: Thursday, October 20 2022 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location:
    Zoom login information will be sent about 20 hours before the meeting.
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

If you are interested in professional career development and cross-training in varied technical fields, please consider joining the Central Texas Consultants Network. And bring a colleague!

Presentation materials, if available, may be obtained after the meeting through the Past Meetings page.



IEEE Day - Oct 4, 2022 - DL Prof. Atiquzzaman on "Connecting Space Assets to the Internet: Challenges and Solutions"

Presentation_Slides
Presentation video


Register Below:

https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/325408

Austin ComSoc/SP/CtSoc and Computer/EMBS  joint chapters  would like to invite you to attend a special VDL talk on

 "Connecting Space Assets to the Internet: Challenges and Solutions”

Speaker:

Prof. Mohammed Atiquzzaman, Ph.D. (Oklahoma)

 

Abstract

Data communications between Earth and devices on spacecraft, such as satellites, have traditionally been carried out through dedicated links. Shared links using Internet Protocol-based communication offers a number of advantages over dedicated links. The movement of devices on spacecrafts however gives rise to mobility management issues.

This talk will discuss various mobility management solutions for extending the Internet connection to devices on the spacecraft.  The talk will provide an overview of the network layer based solution being developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force and compare it with the transport layer-based solution that has been developed at the University of Oklahoma in conjunction with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Network in motion is an extension of the host mobility protocols for managing the mobility of networks which are in motion, such as those in airplanes and trains. The application of networks in motion will be illustrated for terrestrial and space environments.

 

Bio

Mohammed Atiquzzaman obtained his M.S. and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering and Electronics from the University of Manchester (UK) in 1984 and 1987, respectively.  He currently holds the Edith J Kinney Gaylord Presidential professorship in the School of Computer Science at the University of Oklahoma.

Dr. Atiquzzaman is the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Networks and Computer Applications, the founding Editor-in-Chief of Vehicular Communications, and serves/served on the editorial boards of many journals including IEEE Communications Magazine, Real Time Imaging Journal, International Journal of Communication Networks and Distributed Systems and Journal of Sensor Networks and International Journal of Communication Systems. He co-chaired the IEEE High Performance Switching and Routing Symposium (2003, 2011), IEEE Globecom and ICC (2014, 2012, 2010, 2009, 2007, 2006), IEEE VTC (2013)  and the SPIE Quality of Service over Next Generation Data Networks conferences (2001, 2002, 2003). He was the panels co-chair of INFOCOM’05, and is/has been on the program committee of many conferences such as INFOCOM, Globecom, ICCCN, ICCIT, Local Computer Networks, and serves on the review panels at the National Science Foundation.

Dr. Atiquzzaman received IEEE Communication Society's Fred W. Ellersick Prize, IEEE Distinguished Technical Achievement Award, IEEE Satellite Communications Technical Contribution Award, and NASA Group Achievement Award for "outstanding work to further NASA Glenn Research Center's effort in the area of Advanced Communications/Air Traffic Management's Fiber Optic Signal Distribution for Aeronautical Communications" project. He is the co-author of the book “Performance of TCP/IP over ATM networks” and has over 350 refereed publications, available at www.cs.ou.edu/~atiq.

His current research interests are in areas of transport protocols, wireless and mobile networks, ad hoc networks, satellite networks, power-aware networking, and optical communications. His research has been funded by National Science Foundation (NSF), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), U.S. Air Force, Cisco, Honeywell, Oklahoma Department of Transportation and Oklahoma Highway Safety Office. 

Light refreshments will be provided

This session will be in-person. However, Zoom may be issued.

 

For any additional information, please send an email to

F. Behmann at f.behmann@ieee.org 



September 29, 2022 Meeting - Virtual Meeting


Presentation_Slides
Presentation video

Topic: Venture Capital
Abstract:

Venture Capital provides the fuel that propels almost all technical innovation brought to market since 1950’s. Yet, back when we were in little geek school, no one taught us anything about it.

Learn how the high-tech VC world emerged from low-tech whalers, how startups are funded, and how you can leverage emerging tech in your current role.

Speaker:

Mark Campbell
email: mcollins2@austin.rr.com

Speaker's bio


Mark Campbell , Chief Innovation Officer at EVOTEK, derives insights from the venture and startup communities to enable technical executives to identify, evaluate and leverage emerging technologies. His 30 years of US and international experience allow him to cut through the buzzwords in his frequent presentations, webinars, articles and podcasts.


Date & Time: Thursday, September 29 2022 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location:
    Zoom login information will be sent about 20 hours before the meeting.
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

August 18, 2022 Meeting - Live Meeting at Asian American Resource Center and also on Zoom


--->  Please note this month's meeting is both live and on Zoom <---

 
Please excuse the small font below, to register for this event, please

go here.


Of interest to consultants:


Patent Searching (Wednesday, 17 August 2022 - 2 PM ET)


Before you file your patent application, you need to conduct a prior art search. Learn to search databases used by patent examiners. This session will cover essential questions, including:

  1. What are the benefits of searching?
  2. Where can you search?
  3. When should you search?
  4. How do you search using USPTO search tools?

This session will be useful for inventors, entrepreneurs, and those who have a beginning to intermediate knowledge of patents and would like to learn more about patent searching.  


Ultimate Upgrade Essentials: Self-Assessment (Friday, 26 August 2022 - 2 PM ET)


Philosophers from Socrates to Sun Tzu have stressed the importance of knowing yourself – your strengths, your limitations and your inner ambitions are key components in a fulfilled career. These self-assessments are invaluable resources that can accentuate your strengths and mitigate your weaknesses. In this discussion, we will use a combination of commonly available tools to give you insight to plan the future upgrades of your career.


Presentation_Slides
Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting as well as to attend the live meeting.
Topic:

The Golden Age of Semiconductors, 1970-2000

Abstract:

Mike will give a brief history of Motorola, with a focus on the Semiconductor Sector in the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s.” He will touch on the interaction of Customer Need, Market Opportunity, Competition, Technology Development and Engineering innovation in wafer process technology, Mask making, Design CAD tools and manufacturing tools. Technology progress started from logic gates to integrated circuits, custom design IC to application specific IC, FPGA, general purpose MCU, DSP and basic functional blocks such as A/D, D/A, PLL, RTC leading to system chip. The 3 C Market (Consumer, Computing and Communication) provided high volume demand, drove the learning curve to increase performance and lowering the product costs. The increase of the automotive market using more electronic contents drove high quality and reliable products.

Speaker:

Mike Collins
email: mcollins2@austin.rr.com

Speaker's bio


Mike Collins joined Motorola semiconductor in 1978 as a Field Applications Engineer in Houston. In 1982 he moved to Austin and into the factory in 1989 as the Digital Signal Processing Marketing Manager. After that he became a Project Manager in the Research and Development department.


Date & Time: Thursday,  August 18 2022 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location:
  • Asian American Resource Center (AARC)
  • 8401 Cameron Road Austin, TX 
  • Austin , Texas
  • United States 78754
  • Building: Community Room
  • Room Number: Classroom #8
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

July 13, 2022 Meeting - Live Meeting at Asian American Resource Center and also on Zoom

--->  Please note this month's meeting is both live and on Zoom
Also note that this month's meeting is on the 2nd Wed instead of the 3rd<---

Of interest to consultants:


Presentation_Slides
Presentation video

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting as well as to attend the live meeting.
Topic:

The next engineering approach to Source Science Technology


Abstract:


Can you imagine what it was like to be an engineer before electricity/magnetism concepts, components and equipment were common place? That same kind of frontier engineering is happening in quantum computing and AI development. I will discuss what is happening right now in the development process to support source science technology. This talk will describe facets of the technology that is similar to and different from convention electrical engineering, and how intuition plays into this work. I will use examples of this based on my recent work developing the WISH unit (World Integrity Space Harmonizer) with the primary inventor. I have started a company www.CoherentSpaces.life based on this product development and deployment. Be sure to join this meeting for the cutting edge of deep frontier development and challenge your outdated classical world view.


Speaker:


Doug Matzke
email: doug@matxkefamily.net

Speaker's bio



Dr Doug Matzke is one of very few who has a mind that inhales complex topics like quantum computing, entanglement theory, Higgs boson and hyper-dimensional math. Doug has been awarded nine patents and his longtime interest in quantum computing, energy, consciousness and metaphysics has led to the publication of "Deep Reality: Why Source Science May Be The Key To Understanding Human Potential" written with now deceased physics icon Dr. William Tiller. This book is essentially the roadmap and a business plan for the new www.CoherentSpaces.life company.
 


Date & Time: Wednesday,  July 13 2022 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location:
  • Asian American Resource Center (AARC)
  • 8401 Cameron Road Austin, TX 
  • Austin , Texas
  • United States 78754
  • Building: Community Room
  • Room Number: Classroom #8
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

June 22, 2022 Meeting - Live Meeting at Asian American Resource Center and also on Zoom

--->  Please note this month's meeting is both live and on Zoom
Also note that this month's meeting is on the 4th Wed instead of the 3rd<---

Of interest to consultants:


Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting as well as to attend the live meeting.
Topic: Seeing Red - The James Webb Space Telescope
Abstract:


The JWST is a new space telescope observatory has been built and recently launched. This portends an exciting new capability to enable science discoveries from the Solar System to the edge of the Universe. The JWST and its instruments are sensitive to near and mid infrared wavelengths. The motivation for choosing these bands and expected types of science available will be discussed. The science results are not available yet as the instrument commissioning is currently in progress so this talk will focus on some of the technologies and design of this latest and largest aperture space telescope ever launched.

Speaker:


Clyde Springen
email: springen@sbcglobal.net

Speaker's bio

Clyde Springen is a retired software, systems and electrical engineer, an Adjunct Professor of Astronomy & Engineering.


He was privileged to have a 47 year career as an engineer and teacher. Engineering
alumnus of Texas Instruments, Lockheed Missiles and Space, Northrop Grumman and Textron. Primary technology areas in Engineering were in Artificial Intelligence – robotics, machine vision, and expert planning systems, tracking and data fusion, and in Astronomy - photometry analysis and galactic simulation. Worked on applications including surface systems for missiles and rockets, conveyor belt robot and vision systems, automated test systems and corps level army battle planning systems. Some highlights include creating a rule-based countdown sequencer for NASA, developing an innovative state-machine based application programming language for robots resulting in two patents and developing a fault-isolation sub-system to diagnose failure in digital circuit cards. As a teacher at Austin Community College taught Introduction to Engineering, Solar System and Stellar Astronomy courses. Also obtained a NASA grant to incorporate satellite telemetry into engineering curriculum.


Date & Time: Wednesday,  June 22 2022 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location:
  • Asian American Resource Center (AARC)
  • 8401 Cameron Road Austin, TX 
  • Austin , Texas
  • United States 78754
  • Building: Community Room
  • Room Number: Classroom #8
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

If you are interested in professional career development and cross-training in varied technical fields, please consider joining the Central Texas Consultants Network. And bring a colleague!

Presentation materials, if available, may be obtained after the meeting through the Past Meetings page.


Other meetings and events of interest:

Technology Advisors Group: How Austin's Autonomy Institute is Enabling Super Intelligence to Solve Hard Systems Problems

Come to TAG’s June 24th meeting from 0800 to 0900 where Jeff DeCoux, Chairman of Austin's Autonomy Institute,  will present "How Austin's Autonomy Institute is Enabling Super Intelligence to Solve Hard Systems Problems".

Registration and more information: https://www.tagaustin.org/


Tue, 14 June 2022, 7-9pm PDT

Held annually since August 1989, HOT CHIPS has become an important tech symposium for the semiconductor industry’s high-performance processors and ICs. In light of advances in the industry over the past year, this presentation will describe many of last year’s important announcements, what has happened in the industry since that time, and what is expected at this year’s gathering – including the following:

  • Processor architectures geared toward AI and machine learning
  • The trend toward 3D chip architectures to overcome current limitations
  • Maturing chiplet standardization, including the Universal Chiplet Interconnect Express (UCIe) spec which standardizes die-to-die interconnects
  • AI and machine learning inside EDA itself for boosting chip floor plans
  • The expanding importance of Compute Express Link (CXL) for CPU-to-memory connections
  • Special purpose data center, cloud and edge computing technologies

About the speaker,  Sharan Kalwani of DataSwing Corp.

Sharan Kalwani is co-founder of DataSwing Corp., and is an Adjunct Faculty member of Oakland University in Michigan. He has been an industry technology specialist for over 25 years, and has degrees in both Engineering and Computer Science. Sharan has spoken at numerous industry events, including the ACM/IEEE Supercomputing Conference, HPC Advisory Council, and SIAM Conference on Imaging Science where he has delivered tutorials, led workshops, and chaired Birds-of-a-Feather (BoF) sessions.

Sharan is an IEEE Senior Member, is active in the Computer, Education and and Vehicular Technology Societies, and is an ACM member. He is an emeritus member of the Michigan UNIX/user group (mug.org, the oldest of the *nix user groups), and also leads the SIG-Linux section of SEMCO. He has published one book and is now working on his second. His many awards include the IEEE Region 4 Jack Sherman Outstanding Member award and the Southeastern Michigan Section Robert Neff Outstanding member award.

Thu, 16 June 2022, Noon-1pm PDT
While the emphasis for autonomous vehicle (AV) design has long been focused on getting the technology to work well in everyday situations, safety remains a significant hurdle for widespread deployment – but achieving safety for life-critical systems requires much more work. While safety encompasses correct operation for the mundane, it also requires special attention to mitigating the risk presented by rare but high-consequence potential-loss events. This talk will cover some history of AV development and safety at the Carnegie Mellon National Robotics Engineering Center that has led to the development of the ANSI/UL 4600 standard for autonomous vehicle safety. Also covered will be activities specific to safety engineering, why a heavy tail distribution of rare events makes ensuring safety so difficult, why brute force road testing won’t ensure safety, and the emergence of safety assurance cases as the approach of choice for AV safety.
About the speaker,  Prof. Philip Koopman of Carnegie Mellon UniversityProf. Philip Koopman is an internationally recognized expert on Autonomous Vehicle (AV) safety whose work in that area spans over 25 years. He is also actively involved with AV policy and standards, as well as more general embedded system design and software quality. Dr. Koopman’s pioneering research work includes software robustness testing and runtime monitoring of autonomous systems to identify how they break and how to fix them. He also has extensive experience in software safety and software quality across numerous transportation, industrial, and defense application domains including conventional automotive software and hardware systems.Phil was the principal technical contributor to the UL 4600 standard for autonomous system safety issued in 2020. He is a faculty member of the Carnegie Mellon University ECE department where he teaches software skills for mission-critical systems. In 2018, Phil was awarded the prestigious IEEE-SSIT Carl Barus Award for outstanding service in the public interest for his work in promoting automotive computer-based system safety. He is an IEEE Senior Member, ACM Senior Member, and SAE Member.





June 2022 -- PPCS - Analysis and Learnings from Cyber-Attacks on Nine Well Known Companies


PPCS June 2022 Meeting - Senthil Mehalingam on Cloud Security Challenges


At a rapid pace, cloud computing has transformed business and government.

The development of the cloud service model provides business-supporting technology faster than ever before. The shift from traditional client/server to service-based models is transforming the way IT departments plan, design and deploy new applications.

However, cloud computing advances have also created new security vulnerabilities.

In this talk, for nine well known companies we will explore attack detail, technical and business impacts as well as how they could have been prevented by the nine companies.

Date and Time

  • Date: 16 Jun 2022
  • Time: 06:00 PM to 07:30 PM
  • All times are (UTC-07:00) Mountain Time (US & Canada)
  • Add_To_Calendar_iconAdd Event to Calendar

Location

This is a virtual meeting.   Registration is required.   The meeting will be recorded.

Hosts

Registration

  • Starts 01 June 2022 11:00 AM
  • Ends 15 June 2022 12:00 AM
  • All times are (UTC-07:00) Mountain Time (US & Canada)
  • No Admission Charge



Alliance of IEEE Consultants Network (AICN) Newsletter

IEEE 4th Qtr AICN Newsletter




May 18, 2022 Meeting - Live Meeting at Asian American Resource Center and also on Zoom

--->  Please note this month's meeting is both live and on Zoom <---



Of interest to consultants:

A Chat With 3 IEEE Independent Consultants

With the "Great Resignation" upon us many IEEE members are venturing out on their own into the gig economy. IEEE has a vast array of independent consultants who have already taken this same leap and they want to share their knowledge and experience with you. So have your questions ready and please join us for this one-hour jam session where three independent consultants will share their know-how and knowledge on how they have survived so long in the gig economy.



Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting as well as to attend the live meeting.
Presentation slides
Presentation video

Topic: The Future Of 3D
Abstract:

Virtual worlds are expanding and the future of human interaction is now dependent on reaching users on any screen. Interaction in the metaverse on web3 and beyond is becoming a priority for consumers and businesses alike. A faster 3D ecosystem with easier and more versatile 3D content creation platforms that can enable User Generated Content at scale with no-code tools. Design software companies can benefit from automation and audience expansion to non-technical users and brands can have more interactive and immersive content while users are actively contributing. Maximizing usability across platforms creates the infrastructure needed for a decentralized webiverse.

Speaker:

Alex Porter
email: alex@modtechlabs.com


Speaker's bio

Alex Porter is the CEO and Co-Founder of Mod Tech Labs, an AI-powered automation platform for digital content creation. Starting with a background in physical and digital design while earning a degree in Interior Design and Construction Technology, her focus over the last decade has been on powering visual experiences using emerging technologies— including AI, XR, IoT, and 5G. She is a Forbes NEXT 1000 Honoree, an Intel as a Top Innovator since 2017, and an NVIDIA Inception member. She was named the 2021 Woman’s Way Business Rising Star and an Innovation Award winner in 2019 and an honoree in 2020 by the City of Austin. She is an advocate for technologists working to shape standards and educate on the benefits of technology from mentorship to regulations.

Date & Time: Wednesday,  May 18 2022 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location:
  • Asian American Resource Center (AARC)
  • 8401 Cameron Road Austin, TX 
  • Austin , Texas
  • United States 78754
  • Building: Community Room
  • Room Number: Classroom #8
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

April 20, 2022 Meeting - Live Meeting at Asian American Resource Center and also on Zoom

--->  Please note this month's meeting is both live and on Zoom <---

Registration: Presentation slides
Presentation video

Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom meeting as well as to attend the live meeting.
Topic: Product Safety Requirements in the US
Abstract:

To understand how the product safety requirements were developed in the United States, the history of the safety agencies will be reviewed. Next, the regulations for work place safety will be explained. This will examine the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) that formed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The development of the National Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTL) will be covered. The different test marks that are used in the North America will be discussed. How the National Electric Code works with the requirements of OSHA and Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) will be shown. The place of standards in the working of safety agencies will be discussed.

Speaker:

Charles Goertz

Speaker's bio

Charles Goertz spent 6 years in the Navy’s Nuclear Power Program. He was assigned to the USS Kamehameha (SSBN 642) and the USS Pargo (SSN-650) as an electronics technician. After the Navy, he worked for Texas Instruments Computer Division in manufacturing and product engineering. In 1986, he started working as a compliance engineer at Texas Instruments. Since then he has worked at Dell Computer Corp., Eaton/CID, Alliant Tech Systems and TUV Rheinland as a compliance engineer. He has a BS in Electrical Engineering from University of Texas and he is a license professional engineer.

Date & Time: Wednesday,  April 20, 2022 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location:
  • Asian American Resource Center (AARC)
  • 8401 Cameron Road Austin, TX 
  • Austin , Texas
  • United States 78754
  • Building: Community Room
  • Room Number: Classroom #8
Map: Click to see map location

Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link at top of form to register.
For more information.

March 15, 2022 Meeting - Zoom

Registration:
Please --> register here <-- to receive information to the Zoom or WebEx meeting.
Presentation slides-Place_holder
Presentation video

Topic: Moore’s Law - Bent not Broken
Abstract:

Much has been written about Moore’s Law. This presentation is not another revisitation of semiconductor scaling. Moore’s Law has been responsible for increased productivity and therefore higher standards of living across the globe. It is interesting to examine the impending end of Moore’s Law and what might replace it in the near term and foreseeable future. This is a highly speculative review of current industry trends and potential Moore’s Law extensions.

Speaker:

Dennis Ferguson

Speaker's bio

Dennis Ferguson is a microwave/analog engineer and a 50-years IEEE Life Senior Member. Dennis spent the majority of his career at Honeywell’s research center in Minnesota where he was involved in developing MMICs/RFICs. In addition, he has been involved in several startup companies in Florida and Texas, one of which was responsible for developing clockless logic. Mr. Ferguson sold his last startup company in 2014 and subsequently semi·retired with a side gig developing software for macOS/iOS platforms.

He holds eight patents and has published or presented 38 papers over the course of his career.

He received his electrical engineering degree at the University of Texas, Austin in the mid 1970’s and his graduate degree from the University of Minnesota in the mid 1990’s.

Date & Time: Tuesday, March  15, 2022 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location:
Map:
Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link above to register.
For more information.

February 15, 2022 Meeting - Zoom

Registration:
Please register here to receive information to the Zoom or WebEx meeting.
Topic: 2022 Investment Market Outlook
Abstract:

2021 has gone through a lot of changes. The Pandemic affected the public health, world economy, job market, and changed our life.  The quickly approved COVID-19 vaccines and the push for vaccination did improve the public health in the first 8 months of 2021. But the virus variants interrupted the economy and growth momentum in the second half of 2021. The inflation, excessive money supply, worker shortage, the supply chain and logistic issues added to the complexity of the investment market. With hot money and additional new investors, the investment market did end up with a double-digit gain year.

Mr. Jeff Krumpelman will be reviewing economic, market and fiscal trends for 2022.  He will provide information on key metrics and news headlines that support their outlook for 2022.  Jeff will also share his thoughts around the individual market sectors and provide insight on their valuations.

Speaker:


Jeff Krumpelman, CFA

Speaker's bio

Jeff Krumpelman is the chief investment strategist of the Mariner Wealth Advisors. He contributes to decisions impacting strategies and tactical allocation of portfolios at the asset class level and also has the responsibility of driving research, portfolio construction and security selection for large and mid- cap equity strategies focused on U.S. Stocks.  He appeared regularly in the CNBC and Bloomberg TV Network.

Jeff received his MBA from Northwestern University and BA from DePauw University.

Date & Time: Tuesday, February  15, 2022 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location:
Map:
Cost:
Reservations: Please click Reservations link above to register.
For more information.

17 Billion Dollars!!! Really?

1/18/2022


Registration:

Please register here to receive information to the Zoom or WebEx meeting.



Presentation slides-Place_holder
Presentation video

Abstract:

The Austin local and National Newspapers, both technical and popular, trumpet the choice of Taylor TX for Samsung’s next Semiconductor Factory.  These headlines almost always emphasize the bit of information that the plant is expected to cost 17 billion Dollars.  That is almost an unimaginable level of expense, yet it is indicative of the cost trends of the industry and the gradual shifting of semiconductor manufacturing to mega-plants, capable of the highest level of integration and the largest wafers.

This talk will examine these cost drivers and attempt to integrate their effect to see just how big the number gets!  Expected contributors on the process side are the expected use of EUV lithography, leading edge materials solutions such as copper interconnect and high-k dielectric and simply the increasing number of metal layers required by advanced designs.  This is coupled however, with the cost effects of the best practices for semiconductor manufacturing:  The effect of 300mm tool cost, the cost of facilities and power, and possible choices made towards production volume and tool redundancy.


Speaker:

Dr. Lawrence Larson


Email:
larry.larson@ieee.org


Speaker's Bio:


Dr. Lawrence Larson, is a retired Professor of Practice in the Electrical Engineering Program of the Ingram School of Engineering at Texas State University. He continues on a part-time basis teaching Semiconductor Device Physics and Semiconductor Manufacturing to the next generation.

  Previously, he had a 20 year career at SEMATECH culminating as the Associate Director of the Front End Processes Division of SEMATECH. Key achievements during that period were the manufacturing improvement of mega-volt and low energy ion implanters, development of vertical furnace technologies and early materials development for high-k and metal gate technologies.

  Of connected interest to the presentation: Dr. Larson currently serves as the Chair of the Central Texas Section of the IEEE, leads the CTS Student Activities effort, is the faculty advisor for the Texas State University Student Branch and Chairs the CTS Electron Devices Chapter. [Whew!]



Date & Time:

Tuesday, January 18, 2022, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

Zoom Meeting


Map:



Cost:



Reservations:

Please register here to receive information to the Zoom or WebEx meeting.


For more information:








IEEE Central Texas Consultant's Network and Life Member Affinity Group Joint Meeting, Tuesday, October 19th.


Please go to the Reservations link to register and receive email instructions for these meetings.
If this is the first time you use Zoom or WebEx please connect a few minutes early in case you are prompted to download and install an extension for your browser.


Notes: 

Zoom meeting URL information will be emailed to you 24 hours before the meeting.



The Consultants Network will elect 2022 officers in the business portion of the October meeting.
 
Position
Incumbent
Chair
Luis Basto
Vice Chair
Jody Everett
Treasurer
Jody Everett
Secretary
Bill Martino
Program Chair
Open
Webmaster
Open
Member at Large
Kai Wong
Member at Large
Sergio Lieberman
 
Nominate yourself, or someone else, for any position by sending an email to Luis Basto, lbasto@ieee.org.

Election date and time: Tuesday, October 19th, 6:00pm
 


Wireless Communications 2021: An Industry Update

10/19/2021


Topic:

Presentation slides
 » Presentation video «



Abstract:

The wireless industry is currently undergoing the biggest evolution in the last 10 years with the development and deployment of 5G.  But 5G is not the only new technology emerging.  New standards like ORAN and WiFi6 are also disrupting the entire ecosystem.  Add the infrastructure pressures brought on by the global pandemic and a shift to work from home, and it's easy to say that this is one of the most exciting times in history to be a wireless engineer.  This presentation will give an overview of where the industry is in the 5G roll out, what is coming next for 5G, what ORAN is and how it's changing our networks, where WiFi6 fits into the picture, and what areas lead researchers are starting to explore for 6G.


Speaker:

Sarah LaSelva, Services Marketing Manager of Keysight Technologies


Email:
sarah.laselva@keysight.com


Speaker's Bio:

Sarah_LaSelva

Sarah is a services marketing manager focused on services for wireless infrastructure products and solutions at Keysight Technologies. Sarah has spent the last 11 years working in the test and measurement industry concentrating on advanced wireless communications, both studying and promoting the latest wireless technologies.

Prior to joining Keysight, Sarah worked at NI (National Instruments) as a product marketing manager for the software defined radio team where she gained a deep knowledge of SDR hardware, software, and wireless communications.

Sarah’s background is in microwave and millimeter wave technology. She has a BS in electrical engineering from Texas Tech University.


Date & Time:

Tuesday, October 19, 2021, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

Zoom Meeting


Map:



Cost:



Reservations:

Please register here to receive information to the Zoom or WebEx meeting.


For more information:

Presentation slides
 » Presentation video «





Notes: 

Zoom meeting URL information will be emailed to you 24 hours before the meeting.


Data Science for Smart City

9/22/2021


Topic:

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Abstract:

In the coming years, new technologies will begin deploying in US cities nationwide, nearly all of them relying on data and data infrastructure to operate and be managed well.   This talk describes some conversations Austin City staff are having with our universities, residents, school and private sector to collaborate on being intentional rather than reactive in the face of this coming technology.


Speaker:

Dr. Ted Lehr
Email:
data.austintexas.gov


Speaker's Bio:

Ted
                                    Lehr
Ted Lehr
 

Dr. Ted Lehr is a Data Architect with the City of Austin, Texas facilitating several university-industry-city research, work force and pilot collaborations. He is part of Austin Innovation Office, reporting into the city manager's chief of staff, advising on technology, business

partnerships and open data.   Ted Dr. Lehr also lectures in Computer Science at Texas

State University he has been recognized as an Outstanding Part-Time Faculty or designated a "Favorite Professor" several times.  Ted received his Ph. D in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Carnegie Mellon-University.  

 


Date & Time:

Wednesday, September 22 2021, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

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Satellite Consternations 

Unintended Consequences of Mega-Satellite Constellations on Observational Astronomy

8/17/2021


Topic:

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Abstract:

Very large collections of low Earth orbit (LEO) communications and other satellites are currently being launched and likely growing to number in the 10s of thousands. Space X's Star Link, One Web and Amazon's Project Kuiper are examples of these constellation developers. This fact is likely to bring benefits to many people who need access to internet communications across the globe for affordable prices. But there are profound negative side effects on other activities including aesthetic and observational ground-based astronomy and others who appreciate and value the starry sky. These issues have led to active efforts both from the professional astronomical and satellite operator communities to cooperatively address the problems associated with these systems.

This talk will review some of the main issues confronting astronomy and other groups and work that has been done so far in characterizing and mitigating the adverse effects of these constellations. In particular some of the results of two workshops held by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and American Astronomical Society (AAS) in 2020/21 - SATCON1 and SATCON2 will be reviewed.


Speaker:

Clyde Springen
Email:
springen@sbcglobal.net


Speaker's Bio:

Clyde
                                Springen


Clyde Springen  

is a retired software, electrical and systems engineer and educator who spent the majority of his career in aerospace in the defense and space industries. This included positions at Texas Instruments, Lockheed Missiles and Space, Northrup Grumman and TEXTRON. In addition to full-time industry work he also taught transferable college credit courses in Solar System and Stellar astronomy and Introduction to Engineering and Circuits courses as an Adjunct Professor of Astronomy and Engineering at Austin Community College. Clyde is a life member of the IEEE and serves as secretary to the life members group in Austin.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, August 17 2021, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

WebEx Meeting


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MRAM, A New Memory Technology

7/20/2021


Topic:

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Abstract:

Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory (MRAM) technology was introduced into the market last decade in the form of Toggle MRAM. Spin Transfer Torque (STT) MRAM, the next generation of Magnetic Tunnel Junction (MTJ) based memory, has now become available offering higher density and bandwidth. This talk will cover the device and design fundamentals, associated challenges, and the outlook of this evolving MTJ based memory.


Speaker:

Syed M. Alam, PhD, Everspin Technologies, Inc.
Email:
syed.m.alam@everspin.com


Speaker's Bio:


Syed M. Alam 

is currently the Sr. Director of Design engineering at Everspin Technologies leading the design functional areas for embedded and standalone STT-MRAM. He has worked on various aspects of design including bitcell, array circuits, architecture, and new product introduction supporting test and DDR high-speed characterization for STT-MRAM. Dr. Alam received his BS degree in Electrical Engineering from UT Austin in 1999, MS and PhD degrees in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from MIT in 2001 and 2004, respectively. He has mentored/co-advised 5 PhD students for research on 3D integration and logic-in-memory architecture. Dr. Alam has over 90 issued US patents, and multiple journal/conference publications.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, July 20 2021, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


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Upcoming meetings of interest:
  

LinkedIn and Standing Out (IEEE-USA Free Live Stream Webinar)

The marketplace is crowded.  How will you standout?

You have to be seen for what you bring to table. You can do this by populating your LinkedIn profile to achieve your desired results. Yes, it involves some planning, work and structure.

Let’s talk about it in this webinar!

This event is being brought to you in partnership with the IEEE Region 5 Houston Section

Register: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/275166

________________________________________________



The 2nd Quarter 2021 AICN Newsletter is now available for download.

https://ieeeusa.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/AICN-Newsletter-Q2-2021.pdf

________________________________________________


IEEE Central Texas Consultant's Network and Life Member Affinity Group Joint Meeting, Tuesday, June 15th.

Note: This month's meeting will be on Zoom.

Please go to the Reservations links below to register and receive email instructions for these meetings.
If this is the first time you use Zoom, please connect a few minutes early in case you are prompted to download and install an extension for your browser.


Notes:

Classic Car Restoration - System Approach

6/15/2021


Topic:

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Abstract:

Engineers like to get their hands dirty and tinker with things during weekends after a busy week in order to relax.  For retired engineer Terry Lawell, it is natural for him to spend more time on his hobby of fixing and restoring his own sports car. In this talk, he will tell his story of accidentally jumping into a new business of restoring and selling classic sports car and his system engineering approach to each unique project. Terry received the joy of completing each project and a little profit.    


Speaker:

Terry Lawell
Email:
tlawell@austin.rr.com


Speaker's Bio:

Terry
                                Lawell

Terry Lawell

joined Sperry/Univac as a Field Engineer in Houston after he completed his US Air Force duty in 1966. He ventured into the main frame computer field in Univac and Datapoint till 1978. He joined Motorola Semiconductor Austin in 1978 as Product Proposal Engineer in the Microprocessor Division. He later joined the design team as System Engineer and involved in developing the 68XX family and later the RISC Architecture 88K family Microprocessor as well as R&D in Neural Network and Vector computing. Terry moved to AMD for a few years and then joined Cadence in 2000 as consultant for computer modeling and verification. He then joined Verilab, another design tools company in 2005. Terry retired in 2010 from the chip related industry. He was awarded 10 patents in communications and microprocessor architecture from his work at Motorola (7) and AMD (3). His hobby after retirement is to restore his old sports car.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, June 15 2021, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

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IEEE Central Texas Consultant's Network and Life Member Affinity Group Joint Meeting, Tuesday, Apr 20th.

Note: This month's meeting will be on Zoom.

Please go to the Reservations links below to register and receive email instructions for these meetings.
If this is the first time you use Zoom, please connect a few minutes early in case you are prompted to download and install an extension for your browser.


Notes:

Battery Energy Storage Technology -- The NEXUS of ALL Energy

5/18/2021


Topic:

Presentation slides
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Abstract:

Energy is fundamental to all human endeavor. Indeed, human quality of life is directly correlated to availability of energy. But, this metric is changing, again, in dramatic fashion. Previously unrelated energy sectors (oil and electricity for example) are becoming irreversibly intertwined. “New energy” (e-frack natural gas, solar and wind)  are already replacing “old energy”(coal, and now oil). As clean technologies work to displace the carbon intensive incumbents, one technology stands at the center of it all, allowing the transition to proceed at scale, and ushering in a new world of possibilities: Battery Energy Storage Technology – The Nexus of ALL Energy.

Speaker:

Thomas Ortman, Voltabox of Texas, Inc., CTO
Email:
Tom.Ortman@voltabox.com


Speaker's Bio:

Tom
                                Ortman

Thomas Ortman is the CTO for Voltabox of Texas, Inc., a subsidiary of Germany-based Voltabox AG, a publicly traded corporation, manufacturing electro-mobility solutions with highly engineered battery energy storage systems (BESS). These systems are applied in a broad cross-section of industrial sectors from municipal buses, mining, forklifts and agriculture to locomotives and e-bikes, as well as to stationary applications. Mr. Ortman served as CEO of Voltabox of Texas, Inc. from July 2018-July 2019.

Mr. Ortman was Founder, President and CEO of Concurrent Design, Inc., which was acquired by Voltabox in March 2018. Founded in 1994, Concurrent Design was an engineering consulting firm with core skills in industrial product development, manufacturing automation and test equipment. With a focus on the electronics, semiconductor and clean technology market segments.  Mr. Ortman is a mechanical engineer and an expert in product design and development.

Thomas Ortman is active in the Austin Tech community; Clean Tech Leaders Roundtable, Clean Energy Business Network, Founding Member and Advisory Board Member, CleanTX; Member, Austin Regional Manufacturers Association (ARMA); Mentor, University of Texas IC2, Austin Technology Incubator, Texas Venture Mentor Service (mentoring battery start-ups; Member, Citizens Climate Lobby (CCL). Prior roles include; Chairman, Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI) Texas Chapter; Founder, Solar Energy Entrepreneur Network (SEEN), Advisor – Physical Sciences for Central Texas Regional Center of Innovation and Commercialization (RCIC) of the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (TETF); Member, Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce Clean Energy Council (GACC CEC).


 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, May 18 2021, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

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Webinar for Consultants:

What Do The Best Consultants Do To Get Clients? (IEEE-USA Free Livestream Webinar)

Consulting is a relationship business built on trust. Consultants build trust by focusing on displaying credibility and providing value to clients even before they become a client. But how does a consultant connect with a potential client? How does a consultant display credibility and build trust leading to a potential client wanting the consultant's help?

This session provides an overview of five organic steps aimed at helping consultants and contractors get clients. Walk away not only with an overview of the steps but ideas to help you with lead generation and on-going client nurturing.

Members with specific questions they'd like to have addressed may contact Laura at Laura@lauraburford.com.


Software Defined Radio (SDR) for Amateur Radio (HAM) Communication

4/20/2021


Topic:



Abstract:

Amateur Radio or “HAM” transceivers have typically been large rectangular boxes with a myriad switches, knobs and meters.  With the advent of digital signal processing and other technology available today, the functions of yesteryear’s Ham radios can be handled digitally including the display and controls.  Software Defined Radios eliminate the bulk and weight of traditional transceivers.  Some SDR’s are connected to the internet and perform the receive function available to all including those without a license due to the “receive only” functionality.  Some SDR transceivers are also available over the internet and allow the licensed operator to remotely control the functions of the radio from anywhere they have an internet connection. This presentation describes the concept of the Software Defined Radio and the application in HAM radio. He will show what they look like in comparison to traditional equipment and will demonstrate the functions of both a receiver as well as a transceiver.  There is even a phone app that acts as an SDR for licensed users!


Speaker:

Phil Bautista, Bull Creek Data, Senior ITSM Consultant

Email:
phil.t.bautista@gmail.com


Speaker's Bio:


Phil Bautista   is a Senior IEEE Member whose Superpower is leading teams of people with disparate backgrounds to accomplish common goals.  He likens it to making “Stone Soup” where you have none of the ingredients but organize often antithetic resources to align and achieve desired outcomes. While he has been an individual contributor building hardware to interface flight controls for the Apache helicopter to multi-ship simulators, written code for a bi-directional interface between the F-16 triaxial data bus to a PC, some of his most gratifying work has been leading teams to bring ideas to life such as the world’s first microprocessor controlled SCUBA diving computer. His work with NASA has provided the opportunity to learn how to pilot the Space Shuttle, develop applications that manage exemptions to work during missions, and even solve complex issues without the ability to touch a keyboard.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, Apr 20 2021, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

Zoom Meeting


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Reservations:

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IEEE Central Texas Consultant's Network and Life Member Affinity Group Joint Meeting, Tuesday, Mar 16th.

Note: This month's meeting will be on Zoom.

Please go to the Reservations links below to register and receive email instructions for these meetings.
If this is the first time you use Zoom, please connect a few minutes early in case you are prompted to download and install an extension for your browser.


Notes:

  1. See Texas Electric Power Crisis for a panel discussion on the Texas Electric Power Crisis.


Rolled Ribbon - Hi-Power, Hi-Capacity Li-ion Batteries

3/16/2021


Topic:



Abstract:

Over the past twenty years, the demand for Lithium-ion batteries has grown from virtually zero to more than $55 billion. In the past fifteen years, the high-power high-capacity segment of the Lithium-ion battery market has been growing from zero to more than $45 billion. Until now, Lithium-ion batteries were based on the decades-old cylindrical, pouch and prismatic cell designs. These work well for low-power low-capacity applications. But they do not scale up well to meet demands for increasing power and capacity.  Rolled-Ribbon® is novel new technology that was specifically developed to address the scalability issues and to become a new standard for high-power high-capacity Lithium-ion batteries. This presentation will introduce the attendee to the new Rolled-Ribbon® technology.


Speaker:

Joel Sandahl, President and CEO, Rolled Ribbon Battery Company, LLC.

Email:
joel.sandahl@rolled-ribbon.com


Speaker's Bio:


Joel Sandahl is the president and chief executive officer of the Rolled-Ribbon Battery Company LLC, a high-power high-capacity Lithium-ion battery manufacturer based in Austin, Texas. He is the former vice president of engineering for Valence Technology, a Lithium-ion battery manufacturer. He has served as a consultant to leading worldwide Lithium-ion battery manufacturers. For forty years, he has been providing business and technology leadership to companies, large and small, in the development of leading-edge products and technology, including four successful start-up companies that introduced industry changing technologies. His innovative work has resulted in eight patents with additional patents still pending.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, March 16 2021, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

Zoom Meeting


Map:



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Reservations:

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IEEE Central Texas Consultant's Network and Life Member Affinity Group Joint Meeting, Tuesday, Feb 23rd.
Note: This month's meeting will be on Zoom.

Please go to the Reservations links below to register and receive email instructions for these meetings.
If this is the first time you use Zoom, please connect a few minutes early in case you are prompted to download and install an extension for your browser.


Notes:

  1. This meeting was postponed from Feb 16th due to Texas ice storm/power shutdowns.
  2. Click Texas Electric Power Crisis for a panel discussion on the Texas Electric Power Crisis.


2021 Investment and Market Outlook

2/23/2021


Topic:



Abstract:

2020 was a very unusual year. The Pandemic affected public health, the world economy, our personal lives, almost every business, and the investment market.  In these early weeks of 2021, with approved COVID-19 vaccines, we look forward to improving public health.  The November Presidential Election resulted a switch of the ruling party, bringing an expectation of change in government policy in the next four years.  2021 begins with hope, and as of this writing the market is up for the year. Jeff Krumpelman will review economic, market and fiscal trends for 2021.  He will provide information on key metrics and news headlines that support the outlook for 2021.  Jeff will also share thoughts around individual market sectors and provide insight on their valuations.


Speaker:

Jeff Krumpelman, CFA, Mariner Wealth Advisors

Email:
jeff.krumpelman@marinerwealthadvisors.com


Speaker's Bio:


Jeff Krumpelman is the chief investment strategist of the Mariner Wealth Advisors. He contributes to decisions impacting strategies and tactical allocation of portfolios at the asset class level and also has the responsibility of driving research, portfolio construction and security selection for large and mid cap equity strategies focused on U.S. Stocks. Jeff has a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from DePauw University and a master’s degree in management from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, February 23 2021, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

Zoom Meeting


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Cost:



Reservations:

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The IEEE Central Texas Consultants Network is an affinity group of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE) Region 5 Central Texas Section.

Objective

The Consultants Network promotes the development of members' careers through professional and social networking, including publicizing members' skills and sharing potential professional opportunities, and supports the IEEE Central Texas Section.

Meetings - General Information

The Consultants Network meets monthly. Except when meeting jointly with other groups, the Consultants Network meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month. Meetings usually begin with informal networking from 6:00 to 6:30 p.m., followed by presentations from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. by experts in technology, marketing, sales, advertising, financial or legal needs of small businesses and special needs of consultants.


IEEE Central Texas Consultant's Network and Life Member Affinity Group Joint Meeting, Tuesday, Jan 19th.
Note: This month's meeting will be on Zoom.

Please go to the Reservations links below to register and receive email instructions for these meetings.
If this is the first time you use Zoom, please connect a few minutes early in case you are prompted to download and install an extension for your browser.


Note: Scroll down to get to the slides and video for this presentation.

Officers for 2021 term

Position
Name
Chairman
Luis Basto
Vice-Chair/Treasurer
Jody Everett
Secretary
Bill Martino
Member at large
Kai Wong
Member at large
Sergio Liberman
Webmaster
Open
Program Chair
Open


Note:

What is the Deep Reality beneath Quantum Computing?

1/19/2021


Topic:



Abstract:

Quantum computing and Quantum Physics contains important concepts about how the world is built. The fundamentals of the classical world is bits with its mutually exclusive 1/0 values. Quantum computing is based on qubits that are the superposition (or mixture) of two classical bits, and this property means that bits and probabilities are fundamental to physics. Typically these unique properties of superposition and entanglement are studied with complex mathematics, but they can be learned conceptually, which will be the basis of this gentle introduction. His 2002 Ph.D. used Geometric Algebra to represent quantum computing, which produced interesting predictions. Once these concepts are understood that the universe is fundamentally probabilistic and informational then they will help understand quantum weirdness. He will also talk about the role of observation and quantum measurement, related to his new book www.DeepRealityBook.com. The take away from this talk is a better appreciation of the spectacular nature of how the universe is organized as hyper-dimensional collections of bits, qubits and ebits.


Speaker:

Doug Matzke

Email: matzke@ieee.org


Speaker's Bio:


Dr. Matzke is a prolific scientist, researcher, and presenter in his areas of expertise about limits of computation, hyper-dimensional mathematics, neuro-computing, quantum computing, real intelligence, and protophysics. During his 45-year career, he was chairman of two PhysComp ’92/’94 workshops, contributed to fifteen disclosed patents with eight granted, has published more than fifty papers and presentations, and earned a PhD in Quantum Computing. Doug has adopted the moniker of “Quantum Doug” because he combines these deep-reality subjects as the source science beneath his quantum model of real intelligence. is the Founder & COO of Triple Crown Consulting. He has 24+ years of experience in the Technical Staffing sector with a specific focus on Electrical Engineering and Computer Science verticals. He started Triple Crown Consulting with Sabatino Guerriero and two other investors in 2004 with a Candidate Centered focus on finding consulting opportunities. Most Triple Crown competitors are client centric. Of course, clients are important, but Triple Crown has always and will continue to always focus on the candidate first. Since inception in 2004 in Austin, TX, Triple Crown has grown to over 100 staffing professionals and added locations in Scottsdale, AZ, San Jose, CA, Costa Mesa, CA, Portsmouth, NH, and Durham, NC. Triple Crown employs nearly 400 technical consultants and occasionally will help a customer solve a direct hire problem. Prior to Triple Crown, Sab & Dave held various roles in various locations with Oxford Global Resources, now a division of ON Assignment. It was there they both experienced 9/11 and it’s aftermath as Division Managers on the West Coast. Dave has a BA in History from Williams College where he played football and started his life as a parent sooner than he should have.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, January 19, 2021, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

Zoom Meeting


Map:



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Reservations:

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Also on IEEE Central Texas Section Meetup


Upcoming meetings of interest:
  



IEEE Central Texas Consultant's Network and Life Member Affinity Group Joint Meeting, Tuesday, Nov 17th.
Note: This month's meeting will be on Zoom.

Please go to the Reservations links below to register and receive email instructions for these meetings.
If this is the first time you use Zoom, please connect a few minutes early in case you are prompted to download and install an extension for your browser.


Note: Scroll down to get to the slides and video for this presentation.

Tech Jobs in the COVID Shutdown Era

11/17/2020


Topic:



Abstract:

The COVID Pandemic's Impact on Tech Jobs- Consulting & Full Time Where do you go when it's March, 2020, unemployment is at record lows (3.9%), particularly in tech (1.9%), and the Demand constantly outstrips supply? Those were questions we were asking ourselves early this year until COVID punched all of us in the mouth. Having experienced two significant external impacts on the labor sector, we found ourselves asking if this one would look more like the aftermath of 9/11, the financial crisis, or some new monster. Nearly 8 months into the Pandemic, it's our belief that we are closer to the finish line than the starting point. What did the initial reaction do to our business? How has the tech market rebounded? What positives have resulted from this particular punch in the face? Are consultants faring better than their direct colleagues? What does the data tell us about skills are most recession resistant from our perspective? How will this pandemic permanently alter hiring going forward? What can we get excited about as we look to 2021? We'll discuss these topics and answer any questions you might have.


Speaker:

David Smith, Triple Crown Consulting, LLC

Email: dave@tripleco.com


Speaker's Bio:

David_Smith

David Smith is a is the Founder & COO of Triple Crown Consulting. He has 24+ years of experience in the Technical Staffing sector with a specific focus on Electrical Engineering and Computer Science verticals. He started Triple Crown Consulting with Sabatino Guerriero and two other investors in 2004 with a Candidate Centered focus on finding consulting opportunities. Most Triple Crown competitors are client centric. Of course, clients are important, but Triple Crown has always and will continue to always focus on the candidate first. Since inception in 2004 in Austin, TX, Triple Crown has grown to over 100 staffing professionals and added locations in Scottsdale, AZ, San Jose, CA, Costa Mesa, CA, Portsmouth, NH, and Durham, NC. Triple Crown employs nearly 400 technical consultants and occasionally will help a customer solve a direct hire problem. Prior to Triple Crown, Sab & Dave held various roles in various locations with Oxford Global Resources, now a division of ON Assignment. It was there they both experienced 9/11 and its aftermath as Division Managers on the West Coast. Dave has a BA in History from Williams College where he played football and started his life as a parent sooner than he should have.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, November 17, 2020, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

Zoom Meeting


Map:



Cost:



Reservations:

Please register here to receive information to the Zoom meeting.


For more information:

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Also on IEEE Central Texas Section Meetup


Upcoming meetings of interest:
  



IEEE Central Texas Consultant's Network and Life Member Affinity Group Joint Meeting, Tuesday, Oct. 20th.
Note: This month's meeting will be on Zoom.

Please go to the Reservations links below to register and receive email instructions for these meetings.
If this is the first time you use Zoom, please connect a few minutes early in case you are prompted to download and install an extension for your browser.


Note: Scroll down to get to the slides for this presentation.

The Saga of Semiconductor Memories - 50 Years

10/20/2020


Topic:



Abstract:

The Saga of Semiconductor Memories over the last 50 years can be broken into 8 Segments: (1)The initial ramp of DRAMS to volume production and the integration of the SRAM memory onto the chip; (2) the Memory Wall - a struggle to make DRAMs faster and more system compatible with the logic MPU, culminating in Synchronous RAMs; (3) the birth of the non-volatile memory and evolution of the Cache Hierarchy; (4) embedded memory and the age of the single chip MCU; (5) Emerging Memories- MRAM, FeRAM, PCRAM and the end of Moore’s Law scaling; (6) the advent of Vertical Scaling. the new Moore’s law and the new technologies to enable it;(7) Intelligent Memories and the intelligent Internet of Things; (8) Artificial Intelligence on a chip.


Speaker:

Dr. Betty Prince, Memory Strategies International
Email: bprince@memorystrategies.com


Speaker's Bio:


Dr. Prince is CEO of Memory Strategies International. She has worked with Texas Instruments, NV Philips and Motorola in memory technology and marketing management, at RCA in the development of an early microprocessor and at Fairchild in semiconductor process technology. She is author of six books in the Semiconductor Memory area. She served as an IEEE SSCS Distinguished Lecturer from 2005 - 2011, on the Program Committees of the IEEE CICC and ITC and was on the Technical Advisory Board of IEEE Spectrum magazine. She was active in the JEDEC Standards Organization and was U.S. rep. to the IEC SC47A WG3 memory committee. She has served on the Technical Advisory Board of several memory companies and on the Board of Directors of Mosaid Technologies. She holds patents in the memory, processor and interface areas. She has a B.S. cum laude and M.S. in physics and math from the University of New Mexico and the University of California, and an M.B.A. and a Ph.D. from the University of Texas with doctoral dissertation on fractal modeling.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, October 20, 2020, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.


Location:

Zoom Meeting


Map:



Cost:



Reservations:

Please register here to receive information to the Zoom meeting.


For more information:

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Also on IEEE Central Texas Section Meetup


Upcoming meetings of interest:
  
 
UT AUSTIN IEEE TEMS GRADUATE STUDENT CHAPTER - TALK ON PATENTS AND IP
 
Join us to know more about patents and IP commercialization from our very own licensing experts – Ms. Milda Saenz and Dr. Chris Wohlgamuth.
 
 Wednesday, October 14th, 2:00 to 3:00 pm
 
Zoom meeting and YouTube livestream.  Find more info at https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/241429.
 
 
VIRTUAL DISTINGUISHED LECTURE - "NEXT GENERATION MOBILE NETWORKS WITH 5G"
 
The presentation will be given by Dr. Ashutosh Dutta; who is currently a Senior Wireless Communication Systems Research Scientist at Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Labs (JHU/APL). Most recently he served as Principal Member of Technical Staff at AT&T Labs in Middletown, New Jersey.
 
Wednesday, October 14th, 6:00 to 7:30 pm
 
Online event.  Find more info and register at https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/242219.
 
 
THE EMERGING IMPLICATIONS OF WIRELESS COEXISTENCE ON TODAY’S MODERN VEHICLES
 
An Overview of Wireless Coexistence Measurements and Challenges: Why Can’t We All Get Along? by Jason Coder, Shared Spectrum Metrology Group Leader, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Boulder, Colorado 
• Wireless Coexistence Implications on Automotive Test and Measurement Applications, by Garth D’Abreu Director, Automotive Solutions at ETS-Lindgren, Cedar Park, Texas
 
Wednesday, October 21st, 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
 
Online event.  Find more info and register at https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/241694.
 
 
IEEE PI2 AUSTIN, OCTOBER 2020, TECH MEETING, "TRANSFORMING THE GRID WITH SOLID-STATE TRANSFORMERS"
 
Engineers at the FREEDM Systems Center at North Carolina State University are developing solid-state transformers that promise to make the electrical grid more reliable and facilitate renewable energy such as wind and solar. If you drive down a typical road and look up when you come to a utility pole, you’ll likely see a transformer or two at the top of it. If you pass an electrical substation, you might see transformers there too, only mounted on the ground. These ubiquitous metal boxes are seemingly everywhere, as they play an integral role in the nation’s electrical grid.
 
Thursday, October 27th, 6:30 to 7:45 pm.
 
WebEx event.  Find more info and register at https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/237909.
 
 
Technology Advisors Group.  The Digital Transformation Demands Dope Data
 
Digital transformation requires data storage that has extreme security, is easy to install/integrate/manage, and is more portable/scalable. Dave Sikora, CEO of ALTR, will tell us how their technology provides such super storage at TAG's October 30th virtual, free meeting from 8 to 9 AM.
 
Go to tagaustin.org for more information and to register.


Future of Travel

09/15/2020


Topic:



Abstract:

The COVID-19 Pandemic had stopped us from long distance traveling and some of us decided to stay in place in the past six months.  Airlines had provided more safety features now.  Cruise lines have begun to roll out enhanced safety measures to ensure a safe return to sea for all guests and crew, in compliance with guidelines set by medical experts, global health authorities and local port regulations. The beauty of this world is waiting for us to explore when it is safe for us to travel.   

For this talk, Gina Murgatroyd will introduce the group with a brief background of her company Expedia Cruises Travel Agency and the relationship with the Expedia Cruises, Air Land and Sea.  Gina will give a short overview of travel today and what we may expect for the rest of 2020 and 2021, the Future of Travel.  She will introduce the rest of the travel specialists panel: Mary Jo Salas with AM Resorts, Kyle Bodden with Celebrity Cruises as well as a representative with Kensington Land Tours to offer their insights and improved services.  The panel will answer any travel related question from you during the Q and A session.


Speaker:

Gina Murgatroyd
Email: 


Speaker's Bio:


Gina Murgatroyd, with a lifelong passion for travel and a desire to work in the travel industry throughout her adult life, made her dream come true and became the owner of the Austin Expedia Cruise in May 2018.   Her company is a full-service travel agency, and continue to book all types of worldwide travel.  Gina’s brick and mortar agency is located in Great Hills Station, at the corner of Research Blvd and Great Hills Trail, in NW Austin.  Gina or one of her travel professionals will be happy to help with a quick inquiry or get personal touch and local service to help plan your next spectacular vacation.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, September 15, 2020, 6:15 to 7:30 p.m.


Location:

Zoom Meeting


Map:



Cost:



Reservations:

Please register here to receive information to the Zoom meeting.


For more information:





IEEE Central Texas Consultant's Network and Life Member Affinity Group Joint WebEx Meeting, August 18th, Tuesday. Note: One day earlier than usual and the new time is 5:45 to 7:30 p.m.

Please go to the Reservations links below to register and receive email instructions for these meetings.
If this is the first time you use WebEx, please connect a few minutes early in case you are prompted to download and install an extension for your browser.

Note: Scroll down to get to the slides and video for this presentation.


A New Pathway to a Premier Engineering Degree - ACC and TAMU

08/18/2020


Topic:



Abstract:


The Texas A&M-Chevron Engineering Academy at Austin Community College gives students a path to success at a quality engineering school while starting close to home. The Engineering Academy program is the first engineering transition program of its kind in the United States. Engineering academies students are co-enrolled with Texas A&M and partner community colleges across the state. After one to two years, students transition to Texas A&M to complete their bachelor's degree in any of the 22 majors offered in the College of Engineering.   

The Texas Workforce Commission projects the need for engineers in the central Texas region to grow by 25% in the next decade. The rising costs of education and limited family resources cause a need for many students to start at a community college before moving to a university. However, access to a premier university and getting accepted into an engineering school is a daunting task. 

The Engineering Academy model addresses these affordability, access, and inclusion problems head-on and provides qualified students with an organized and affordable pathway to success as an engineering student. This talk will give an overview of the program and the success that has been achieved in the first few years of this new and innovative program.


Speaker:

Shana Shaw
Email:
shana@tamu.edu


Speaker's Bio:


Shana Shaw is one of the most social and artistic engineers you may ever meet. She has a Bachelor’s of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University and a Master’s of Science in Interdisciplinary Engineering from Purdue University.  Work experience in education, automotive, petroleum, and satellite communications rounds out her diverse industry experience of over twenty years.  She has held technical engineering positions in manufacturing and product design, as well as engineering and program management positions in her various industry assignments.  In the education arena, Shana has taught in kindergarten through master’s level classes over the years.  She has served as an academic and life coach, helping students with skills such as time management, note taking, goal setting, study skills, and learning styles.  Shana currently teaches at Texas A&M University and Austin Community College.  Her goal is to inspire her students and children to look at the world in a different way while emphasizing the practical application of learning.  Her hobbies include acting, music, and sports.

 


Date & Time:

Tuesday, August 18, 2020, 5:45 to 7:30 p.m.


Location:

WebEx Meeting


Map:



Cost:



Reservations:

Please register here to receive information to the WebEx meeting.


For more information:

Presentation slides
Presentation video
Presentation video link








5G Internet

07/21/2020


Topic:


Abstract:

5G-Digital services are the essential heart of the modern Internet-driven economy. In simplest terms, 5G high-speed causeways enable ubiquitous access to internet-connected services, sensors, drones, robots, and data while we are on the move. Within the research community, 5G also represents transformative internet technology at the intersection of high-performance computing, high-speed networking, and high bandwidth wireless communications.  This ¿5G-mobile-internet¿ allows the computing devices that we carry around to analyze vast quantities of information for real-time services in highly mobile applications.   This presentation describes the 5G Internet, associated technology, and the 5G applications that will transform society.


Speaker:

Dr. Brian Kelley, The University of Texas at San Antonio

Email:

Speaker's Bio:



Dr. Kelley received his BSEE from Cornell University's College of Electrical Engineering in Ithaca NY where he graduated Tau Beta Pi and Eta Kappa Nu. He received his MSEE and PhDEE from Georgia Tech in 1992 where he was an Office of Naval Research Fellow and a Georgia Tech Presidential Fellow with a research focus on communications, Signal Processing, and high-performance computing architectures. He spent 10+ years in industry with both Motorola and Motorola¿s spinoff, Freescale. While there, he rose to Distinguished Member of the Technical Staff, developing Wi-Fi, HSPA, LTE platforms, radio link simulators, and traveled around the world as a representative to the 3GPP RAN4 (4G-LTE) standards body. Since 2007, Dr. Kelley has been an Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). At UTSA, Dr. Kelley is Director of the Wireless Information and Next Generation Systems Laboratory (WINGS) with an emphasis on 5G Communications, Software Defined Radio (SDR), Cloud Radio Access Network (CRAN). Dr. Kelley has received over $2.6M in research funding from ONR, AFRL TECHLAV, DoE and consults extensively with cellular communications companies. He has numerous IEEE publications and holds 11 US patents. Dr. Kelley has been an IEEE 4G Technical Workshop Organizer, has served on the Technical Program Committee for IEEE Globecom, currently Chairs the IEEE Chapter of Communications and Signal Processing of San Antonio, is a member of the National Spectrum Consortium, and has been Associate Editor of the IEEE System Journal. From 2015-2016, Dr. Kelley was Sabbatical Employee of the Department of Defense in Washington D.C.; and in 2015 and 2017, he was a Summer Faculty Fellow at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in the Quantum Information System Group. Dr. Kelley is a technical leader in the 5G Steering Group at JBSA and selected as Assistant Associate Dean¿s Fellow in 2019. At UTSA, Dr. Kelley instructs courses on 5G-New Radio Communications, Internet of Things (IoT), Software Defined Radio (SDR), Error Correction Codes, Statistics and Random Signals and Noise.




Date & Time:

Tuesday, July 21, 2020, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.

Location:

WebEx Meeting

Map:


Cost:


Reservations:

Please register here to receive information to the WebEx meeting.

For more information:








Meeting 1:  So, You Wanna Rewire Your House, Huh?

June 16 2020

Topic:
Abstract:

It doesn’t matter whether you intend to do the work yourself or hire a contractor to do it, there are certain things you will need to know in order to get what you want out of the job.  I will not try to make you electricians, but I will discuss certain National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, different wiring methods and the relative benefits of each one, receptacle placement, and other items such as GFCI receptacles and breakers, AFCI breakers, and my recommendation on how to use GFCI receptacles effectively, and how to trouble shoot GFCI problems as well as other common problems.

This is intended to be fun and informative, not a hard lecture (no exam afterwards).


Speaker:
James Mercier

Email:
jmercier@ieee.org
Speaker's Bio:


James has an eclectic history.  After serving 4-years in the Air Force, he completed a four-year Apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in 1979, making him a qualified construction electrician.  The training specialized in industrial and commercial wiring.  On his own, he did residential wiring.  In 1986, he graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a BS in Civil Engineering and then worked as an Environmental Engineer in the private sector.  In 1994, James was hired into the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to work in Roadway Illumination and in Traffic Signals; in 2001, he transferred to TxDOT Hydraulics.  While at TxDOT, he specialized in reviewing electrical plans, specifying grounding practices, jobsite inspections for code compliance, lightning protection, and open channel hydraulics.  He designed a collapse detection and motorist warning system for the Queen Isabella Causeway Bridge in south Texas.  James also was a Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) and an instructor for the Texas Floodplain Management Association.   James retired from TxDOT and the IBEW in 2015 so that he can enjoy life.

James Mercier is licensed as a Professional Engineer in Texas and five other states, and a Texas licensed Master Electrician.  He is an American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Life Member and an IEEE Life Senior Member.  In the IEEE Central Texas Section, his current duties include Membership Development Chair, Sr. Member Upgrade Coordinator, and SAMIEEE Recipient.  He also is a Past-Chair of the IEEE joint chapter (PI)² (PES/PELS/IES/IAS), and current Treasurer.  His nickname is “Honeybadger”



 


Date & Time: Tuesday, June 12, 2020, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: WebEx Meeting
Map:
Cost:
Reservations: Please register here to receive information to the WebEx meeting.
For more information:



Meeting 2:  Energize Your Mindset: 8 Tips for Moving on From the COVID-19 Alligator Pit

June 24 2020

Topic:
Abstract:

As the unknowns around the reopening involving COVID-19  drag on, the times feel overwhelming for many people. Or in Carrie Vanston's nomenclature, many of us feel we're stuck in the proverbial alligator pit.

How do we keep our sanity and stay out of the swamp during this period of uncertainty? Though many of us are facing life-changing circumstances, a good starting point is to consciously shift from a fixed mindset of fear and negativity to one of empowerment, opportunity, and unexpected outcomes. With an energized growth mindset, you can say “bye-bye” to those gators when they come a-snapping.

You’ll leave saying “See you later, alligator!”

Speaker:
Carrie Vanston, the Alligator Wrangler

Email:
carrie@carrievanston.com
Speaker's Bio:


Carrie Vanston works with organizations and people to escape the alligator pit of stress and negativity and move on to energized growth mindsets overflowing with opportunities.

Carrie co-authored the award-winning book "MiniTrends: How Innovators & Entrepreneurs Discover & Profit From Business & Technology Trends," with Dr. John Vanston. Her article "7 Tips for Getting Out of the COVID-19 Alligator Pit” recently appeared in the prestigious Texas CEO Magazine.


Date & Time: Wednesday, June 24, 2020, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: WebEx Meeting
Map:
Cost:
Reservations: Please register here to receive information to the WebEx meeting.
For more information:




Note: This month we have two Webex meetings jointly with the IEEE Life Member Affinity Group.
Please go to the Reservations links below to register and receive email instructions for these meetings.
If this is the first time you use WebEx, please connect a few minutes early in case you are prompted to download and install an extension for your browser.



Meeting 1:  Edison vs. Tesla: When IP Ruled ... Still Does

May 19 2020



Topic:
Abstract:

The talk will cover the following topics.  Tales of dueling great engineering minds, from Edison vs. Tesla to Apple vs. Qualcomm.  Why inventor technical breakthroughs fail to become successful businesses.  In a world where innovation is not confined by geographic boundaries intellectual property (IP) has become a game changer.  All patents are not created equal: good patents vs. bad patents. Progression from engineer to subject matter expert.

Speaker:
Dr. Edwin de Angel of Invention Matters, LLC

Email:
edwin.deangel@inventionmatters.com
Speaker's Bio:

Dr. Edwin de Angel

is a seasoned inventor with more than 30 patents issued.  Dr. De Angel is the founder of Invention Matters, a company focused on IP licensing, patent infringement analysis, patent valuation, prior art research and claim chart development.  He has worked for several Fortune 500 technology firms, law firms and startups.  Dr. De Angel has more than 20 years of experience working for semiconductor and technology firms including Honeywell, Intel, Cirrus Logic, RFMicron, Freescale and Qualcomm.   During this time he led teams as a Design Manager and VP of Engineering, creating, developing and licensing intellectual property. Between 2005-2009 Dr. De Angel served as a program evaluator for the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET).
 
Dr. De Angel has a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University.  He is a professional engineer (PE), licensed in the state of Texas, and a certified licensing professional (CLP).  Dr. De Angel is a board member of Quantum interface and co-chair of the Licensing Executive Society Austin/Hill Country Chapter.


Date & Time: Tuesday, May 19, 2020, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: WebEx Meeting
Map:
Cost:
Reservations: Please register here to receive information to the WebEx meeting.
For more information: Presentation slides
Presentation video




Meeting 2:  New Startup Idea and Company to Improve Thermal Ablation of Tumors

May 27 2020

Topic:
Abstract:

Thermal ablation of tumors through the skin and into liver or kidney is in widespread use daily. A medical start-up created a novel gel that is injected next to the tumor that changes the dielectric properties such that microwaves or RF are more effectively absorbed and the ablation volume is markedly increased. This should lead to more effective treatment since often all of the tumor is not ablated with the treatment which could lead to regrowth of the cancer. The technology could also be used for cardiac ablation and other sites.

The talk will give a short tutorial on tumors, thermal ablation, and access to the tumor, including an animation. Following this introduction, then it will proceed to go over the market potential, and development and commercialization plans of the start-up. The audience will be the hypothetical Angel investors and will discuss afterward whether they would fund or not and their reasons for doing so. Angel investors invest their own money, so they scrutinize (in great detail) all the start-ups that pitch to them.

Speaker:
Thomas Ryan

Email: thomas@freefall.biz

Speaker's Bio:

Thomas Ryan has over 35 years’ experience in the medical device field, starting with 12 years in academics at Stanford Univ. and Dartmouth College. His career then entered the second phase with Medical Device development and commercialization, with large companies (Covidien, J&J, Smith and Nephew), as well as 5 start-ups. His focus was energy-based tissue treatment using microwaves, ultrasound, and RF for tumor ablation as well as energy-based devices (e.g. LigaSure, now $1B product) for surgery and clinical treatment. More recently he was CEO at a Boston-based start-up where he pitched to Venture Capitalists and Angel Groups for funding, met with the FDA, and laid the groundwork for commercialization including business plan, and market forecast, segueing into acquisition by a major player in the market.

He is an IEEE Fellow, has 48 US patents, and more than 110 book chapters and publications.


Date & Time: Wednesday, May 27, 2020, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: WebEx Meeting
Map:
Cost:
Reservations: Please register here to receive information to the WebEx meeting.
For more information:



Emergency Communications

April 2020

Topic:

Emergency Communications

Abstract:

At the recent IEEE Rising Stars Conference (https://ieee-risingstars.org/) in Las Vegas, Nevada I took over 100 undergraduate and graduate level Engineering students through a “Zombie Apocalypse” workshop. In it they were introduced to the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) alphabet used in Emergency Communications (EMCOMM), radio operation, serial voice communications nets, and made their very first VHF/UHF radio contacts. Following the workshop an FCC licensing exam session was held and twice the expected number of people passed with their newly minted FCC Amateur Radio licenses. Walk with me through the workshop highlights and see the amazing results, what worked, what the bottlenecks were and what failed.

In addition, learn what happens on a weekly basis behind the scenes in Austin, Travis County, across the State of Texas and at our Nation’s Capital to prepare for loss of communication and handle a surge in transporting and managing patients across hospitals in emergencies to keep our Nation, State, County and City from being unable to communicate in the event of a failed infrastructure.

Speaker:
Phil Bautista, ITIL V3 Certified
Bull Creek Data, Senior ITSM Consultant


Email:
phil.t.bautista@gmail.com
Speaker's Bio:

Phil Bautista

is a Senior Member of the IEEE, an Extra Class Amateur Radio Operator and officer with the Travis County Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) organization. His focus is on enabling communication WHEN (not IF) Infrastructure crippling emergencies occur. With training and certification in Cyber Security, he also helps to advise and protect our Nation’s critical infrastructure in cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security as a member of Infragard (https://www.infragard.org/) in Central Texas.

Phil earned a BSEE from DeVry Institute of Technology in 1982. He is a Senior ITSM Consultant, and is ITIL V3 Certified.


Date & Time: Wednesday, April  22, 2020, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: WebEx Meeting
Map:
Cost:
Reservations: Please register here to receive information to the WebEx meeting.
For more information:

The recording of this presentation is available at the links below.

From IEEE WebEx site
From IEEE CTCN site





5G Wireless Technology Overview

March 2020

Topic:

5G Wireless Technology Overview

Abstract:

5G technology has the ability to radically change how we interact with the world. Not only will the new technology allow for higher speeds and throughput, the additional capability will unlock multitudes of different applications. This includes everything from remote surgeries to live VR sporting events to autonomous vehicles. But the big question is how this will be done. This presentation will cover an overview of 5G, including how this new technology will work. The presentation will cover topics such as carrier aggregation, frame and protocol structure, beamforming, and network architecture.

Speaker:
Muru Thirugnana
Email: murugappan.thirugnana@keysight.com
Speaker's Bio:

Muru Thirugnana
is a Wireless Specialist and Application Engineer with Keysight Technologies, based in Dallas, Texas. Muru has a master's degree in electrical engineering from Indian Institute of Technology (BHU). He has worked in the development of modem/protocol stack, RF firmware, physical layer, and 3GPP wireless systems. His experience includes handset development, chipset integration, and test solutions development. Currently, Muru's focus is on LTE-A, NB-IoT, and 5G solutions.


Date & Time: Wednesday, March 25, 2020, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: WebEx Meeting
Map:
Cost:
Reservations: Please register here to gain credentials to the WebEx meeting.
For more information: Presentation slides

  1. For deeper dives: https://www.keysight.com/find/5Gwebinars
  2. For posters, ebooks, and other content: https://www.keysight/find/5G



Also on IEEE Central Texas Section Meetup

Announcement: Meeting on March 4, 2020, 6:30pm

Licensing Executive Society Austin/Hill Country Chapter 

Exploring the Roles of IP in Monetizing AI

 

The Austin and Hill Country Chapter of the Licensing Executive Society invites you to a Networking and Panel Discussion Events at the Capital Factory.   

Join us for a panel discussion looking through multiple perspectives on the practical roles of IP in monetizing AI applications.  We will focus on aspects of the practical effect of legal choices including benefits, risks and limitations as they impact business applications for inventors, adopting industries, licensors and executives. A brief introduction to our panel is set out below, but please refer to the bios at the end of our announcement. 


Peter Walker, Ph.D., Sr. Director Visa AI Platform—perspectives of programmer, serial entrepreneur and research management

Peter leads the development of Visa’s next-generation Artificial Intelligence Platform (VAIP). He also has extensive experience in commercializing social media and cloud video gaming applications and has worked in key positions both leading start-ups and serving established industry leaders.   

 

Mike Taylor, CEO of KtMINEIndustry Trends, business management  

Mike leads ktMINE and was a principle coder in developing its global IP data research platform--providing actionable insights to business professionals on royalties, licensing and using IP strategy to grow value 

 

Paola Retes, Associate at IronSpring Ventures—investor perspective  

Paola is a CFA® charterholder and supports deal sourcing and execution alongside all other day-to-day activities related to Ironspring--giving him critical insight to how VCs look at technology start-ups. 

 

Steve Pollinger, Principal at Mckool Smith—from the view of IP enforcement

Based in Austin, Steve is a trial lawyer and registered patent attorney with a masters’s in electrical engineering.  His nationwide practice focuses on patent and other IP matters through which he has tried several cases to verdicts of over $100M.  

 

Mark A. Smith, Principal and Managing Member—Moderator 

Mark serves as co-chair for our local LES chapter.  His legal practice concentrates on IP matters building on his prior experience, both as a Partner in an IP boutique and in-house as Attorney and Senior IP Counsel in leading R&D, software and energy companies and, more recently, in the entrepreneurial ecosphere.  

  

Food and Refreshments will be provided. 


When:March 4, 2020 

Networking at 6:30 

Programing at 7:00 – 8:15 

 

Cost: $ 35.00 

 

Register at:  

 

An application for accreditation of this activity has been submitted to the MCLE Committee of the State Bar of Texas and is pending 

 

Where: The Capital Factory 

  Captain America Room - 8th floor 

  701 Brazos St. 

  Austin, TX 78701 

 

Sponsor: We wish to thank The Capital Factory for their generous support in underwriting this program.  

 

For more information, contact: 

Edwin De Angel, Ph.D., P.E., CLP 

Founder/CEO 

Invention Matters 


A little more about the panel:

Steve Pollinger, Principal at Mckool Smith

Steve Pollinger has been working in IP for nearly 30 years. He is a Principal at McKool Smith here in Austin, an office he helped found in 2000. He is a trial lawyer and registered patent attorney focused on patent and other IP cases nationwide. He has tried several cases to verdict, three of which have resulted in verdicts of over $100M each. He has a master’s degree in electrical engineering and served as a Judicial Clerk to Judge Plager at the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. 


Paola Retes, Associate at IronSpring Ventures 

Paola Retes serves as Associate and supports deal sourcing and execution alongside all other day-to-day activities related to Ironspring. Paola is a CFA® charterholder and brings significant financial expertise to Ironspring's network of operators and portfolio companies. 


Mark A. Smith, Principal at Mark Andrew Smith, PLLC 

Mark’s legal practice concentrates on Intellectual Property and builds on his prior experience, both as a Partner in an IP boutique and in-house as Attorney and Senior IP Counsel in leading R&D, software and energy companies.  

He has served as an adjunct law professor and serves entrepreneurs and graduate students in commercializing new technologies mentoring teams and judging business plans in related professional, academic and accelerator programs.  Active in the Licensing Executive Society, Mark has served in leadership positions in the local chapter and nationally with the LES Foundation.

Mark has engineering and law degrees from SMU, an LL.M from UH and an MSTC (technology commercialization) from the UT/McCombs; is admitted to the Texas Bar and the USPTO; and is credentialed as CLP Emeritus (Certified Licensing Professional, CLP Inc.) and a RTTP (Association of Technology Transfer Professionals). 

 

Mike Taylor, CEO KtMINE

As CEO, Mike sits at the helm of ktMINE, a global intellectual property data research platform. With 20-years of experience in systems architecture and design, Mike custom-built the infrastructure that powers ktMINE’s suite of applications. A master of several programming languages, he is experienced in everything from back-office integration to enterprise-scale software engineering.Mike’s passion for data, connections, and the business insights found within drives him to find innovative ways to provide actionable insights to business professionals. Since its inception, ktMINE has added millions of data points beyond royalties and licensing information. The new resulting platform is utilized across different industries and well-known organizations to drive corporate IP strategy and growth by utilizing the value within their IP portfolios.   

 

Peter Walker, Ph.D., Sr. Director Visa AI Platform

Peter is a senior director in Visa Data Product Division. He leads the development of Visa’s next-generation Artificial Intelligence Platform (VAIP). VAIP is built on modern AI capabilities and deployed at scale, empowering the delivery of better consumer experience and new services to Visa clients. 

 

He has extensive experience in developing large scale, low-latency multimedia applications and systems, cloud computing, networking, and systems management products and technologies.  Before joining Visa, he was the CTO and Cofounder of JamKazam, a social media and interactive platform that enables musicians to discover, connect, and play live and in-sync across the internet. 

Peter is a pioneer of the field of Cloud Video Gaming now being offered by Google, Microsoft, and Sony. He cofounded SpawnLabs, which led to the development of the technology for real-time video game streaming as a service. In 2008 SpawnLabs was awarded the Austin Tech Innovation award in Gaming. He also served as CTO of GameStop Cloud Gaming Division, after GameStop acquired SpawnLabs. Additionally, he worked at IBM Research modeling networks for use in supercomputers. He earned his Masters and Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island.


The Antikythera Mechanism

February 2020

Topic:

The Antikythera Mechanism

Abstract:

The Antikythera Mechanism -The Designing and Building of a LEGO Version including designing and 3D printing the needed custom LEGO compatible
gears.


The Antikythera Mechanism is an ancient Greek Mechanical Computer, often called the first Computer. Designed and build around 205 to 60BC. It was found in 1901.

Speaker:
Kurt Baty


Email:
Speaker's Bio:

Kurt Baty is a Life Member of the IEEE, has 44 years' experience in the
electronics industry and has been, since 1988, an independent design consultant.
His client list includes many large companies: NCR, HP, Nortel, Synopsys,
Lucent and NEC. He has also worked with a number of startup companies
these include Stratus Computer, LANcity, Aware, 0-in, Argon Networks,
Cimaron Communications, Neteffect and Everspin Technologies.
He has worked on: 54 ASICs, list of patents, the first Cable Modem chips,
the first 100Mbit ethernet chip, the first core internet router chip,
and the first hardware transendental function IP(s).

Kurt lives with his wife of 42 years on their acreage on Lake Travis outside
of Austin, Texas.


Date & Time: Wednesday, February 26, 2020, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. BBQ dinner is optional on your own.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information:

Seeing the Unseeable - Black Holes

January 2020

Topic:

Seeing the Unseeable - Black Holes

Abstract:

Seeing the Unseeable - What technologies can be used to see Black Holes that emit no light because they are so dense that their escape velocities exceed the maximum speed of events like particle propagation or gravitational effects in the universe often called the 'speed of light'. This has been accomplished by some truly amazing developments in millimeter wave EM detection, Interferometry and computational processing of massive quantities of data.

Speaker:
Clyde Springen,
Email: springen@sbcglobal.net
Speaker's Bio:

Clyde Springen is a retired software, systems and electrical engineer, an Adjunct Professor of Astronomy & Engineering.
He w
as privileged to have a 47 year career as an engineer and teacher. Engineering
alumnus of Texas Instruments, Lockheed Missiles and Space, Northrop Grumman and Textron. Primary technology areas in Engineering were in Artificial Intelligence – robotics, machine vision, and expert planning systems, tracking and data fusion, and in Astronomy - photometry analysis and galactic simulation. Worked on applications including surface systems for missiles and rockets, conveyor belt robot and vision systems, automated test systems and corps level army battle planning systems. Some highlights include creating a rule-based countdown sequencer for NASA, developing an innovative state-machine based application programming language for robots resulting in two patents and developing a fault-isolation sub-system to diagnose failure in digital circuit cards. As a teacher at Austin Community College taught Introduction to Engineering, Solar System and Stellar Astronomy courses. Also obtained a NASA grant to incorporate satellite telemetry into engineering curriculum.


Date & Time: Wednesday, January 22, 2020, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. BBQ dinner is optional on your own.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information:

Notice: See Below- This month's meeting is earlier due to Thanksgiving holidays.

Also note the Christmas holiday party on Dec. 5.



How ElecTrip is Electrifying City to City Travel in Texas

November 2019

Topic:

How ElecTrip is Electrifying City to City Travel in Texas

Abstract:

ElecTrip is solving for the 1000s of labor hours lost by frequent business travelers when traveling between cities located less than 4 hours apart by car. We offer door to door transportation in a private Tesla with Wi-Fi and laptop charging. Due to the lower operational expense of EVs, we can offer a no compromise service at a cost competitive price. Since our launch in March of 2018, we've serviced over 1000 clients-including Apple, Shell, and Deloitte. ElecTrip recently signed a contract with Shell, offering employees discounted rides in order to offset carbon emissions during city to city commutes, while also providing a safer option than the ones currently on the market.

Speaker:
Elliott Lee

Speaker's Bio:

Eliott Lee is a senior at The University of Texas at Austin studying Mechanical Engineering. He is involved with the Longhorn Entrepreneurship Agency on campus and has experience interning at Shell GameChanger, an early stage startup fund/program within Shell. Born and raised in Houston, with a passion for energy, tech, and startups. He serves as the COO for ElecTrip and works alongside Mandeep and the rest of the ElecTrip team.


Date & Time: Tuesday, November 19, 2019, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. BBQ dinner is optional on your own.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information:


Holiday Social and Networking Event:

Reservations: Please register here so that we know approximately how many are coming.  
Space is limited. Reservations are required. 
(First Come - First In). Last minute walk-ins and guests welcome.
Thurs., Dec 5, 2019, 5-7:30pm
Location: The Park at the Domain
11601 Domain Dr., #200
Austin, TX, 78758

Innovation for Sustainable Planet

October 2019

Topic:

Innovation for Sustainable Planet

Abstract:

There wouldn’t be a day go by without the news on global warming, plastic pollution and other environmental disturbing activities. We as a community at this juncture has a responsibility of to fix it to safeguard planet and our future generations. After a short presentation, let’s identify a few issues from our city and come up with innovative ideas to fix them. Let’s brainstorm and find out whether we can solve the problems as entrepreneurs does. Typical issues could be transportation, plastic pollution, textile pollution, water recycling and energy saving.

Speaker:
Prasad Jaladi


prasad@suraksha.us
suraksha

Speaker's Bio:

Prasad Jaladi is a social entrepreneurs and Chief Facilitator at Suraksha. He was President of Intelligent Enterprise Solutions, operated in social entrepreneurship model. He has international experience in multiple industries. With Masters in Organic Chemistry, he ventured into multiple disciplines. He built local and international partnerships to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. He worked with corporations, universities, government, private research institutions and hospitals offering software, consulting and training services. Prasad introduced SaaS for intelligence analytics on 35 technologies, end to end automation of intellectual property management and data mining in gene expression analysis. He supports application of AI, VR/AR, Blockchain, Chatbots and IoT. Prasad established and managed IT consulting business in Silicon Valley. He has experience in pharmaceutical industry as Managing Director, managed R&D, QA, QC, pilot and commercial manufacturing. He lead team to obtain US FDA approval. He works with international scientists, organizations for technology commercialization of products from natural and renewable resources.


Date & Time: Wednesday, October 23, 2019, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. BBQ dinner is optional on your own.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information: Presentation slides


Peeking Into the Car of the Future

September 2019

Topic:

Peeking Into the Car of the Future

Abstract:

"We are the automobile. We are here to help you."

Modern cars are robots, or at least robot-wannabes. But unlike with domestic robots that clean your house and maybe cook and feed you, do we trust our lives and those of others to these rising autonomous machines? We shall attempt to look into the vehicle electronics of these new cars.


Speaker:
  Luis Basto
Speaker's Bio:


Luis is an engineer in the Automotive division of NXP Semiconductors. He is responsible for Design for Testability of the circuits used in the next generation of vehicles. Luis has many years of design and DFT experience in the semiconductor industry working for Motorola, AMD, Analog Devices, Cadence, NXP, and others. He has worked as an individual contributor as well as managed design teams globally. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and has been awarded 6 US patents in hardware and software design. He has a BSEE from the University of Houston and an MSEE from Southern Methodist University.


Date & Time: Wednesday, September 25, 2019, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. BBQ dinner is optional on your own.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information: Presentation slides


From Craftful to Catastrophe -- Contracts  Issues for Consultants

August 2019

Topic:

From Craftful to Catastrophe -- Contracts  Issues for Consultants

Abstract:

Join us for a program addressing a range of contract issues for consultants that should see more light of day, particularly for technical consultants. Topics will include a range of alternative structures to consider for your engagements, opportunities that you might not know were there, terms that can appear straightforward and binding yet be ineffective, and a number of bear traps to watch out for and avoid.

This should be an interactive discussion following the interests of our audience. And our goal is to provide all some measure of a better foundation as informed consumers of contracts as tools in their practice.


Speaker:
   Mark Andrew Smith
Speaker's Bio:


Mark’s legal practice concentrates on Intellectual Property and builds on his prior experience, both as a Partner in an IP boutique and in-house as Attorney and Senior IP Counsel in leading R&D, software and energy companies.

He has served as an adjunct law professor and serves entrepreneurs and graduate students in commercializing new technologies mentoring teams and judging business plans in related professional, academic and accelerator programs. Active in the Licensing Executive Society, Mark has served in leadership positions in the local chapter and nationally with the LES Foundation.

Mark has engineering and law degrees from SMU, an LL.M from UH and an MSTC (technology commercialization) from the UT/McCombs; is admitted to the Texas Bar and the USPTO; and is credentialed as CLP Emeritus (Certified Licensing Professional, CLP Inc.) and a RTTP (Association of Technology Transfer Professionals).


Date & Time: Wednesday, August 28, 2019, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. BBQ dinner is optional on your own.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information:

Blockchain Technology and Its Financial Transaction Application

June 2019

Topic:

Blockchain Technology and Its Financial Transaction Application

Abstract:

A brief explanation of blockchain technology fundamentals and how it can create trustless proof.
Speaker:
  Paul Snow
Speaker's Bio:
Paul Snow is CEO at Factom, creator of the first usable blockchain technology to solve real-world business problems by providing an unalterable record keeping system. A leader in the open-source technology arena, Paul brings more than three decades of software development experience to his position at the helm of Factom.

Paul’s innovative approach to software and application engineering has spawned a litany of inventive open-source companies and solutions that have paved the way for Factom. A true open-source evangelist, Paul also acts as Chief Architect for DTRules, an open source project  he founded in 2004 to make Decision Table based Rules Engines available to all sorts of projects. He built the first Decision Table based Rules Engine for the Texas TIERS project. He went on to build another for the state of Ohio to support onsite corporate audits. But both projects tied up the source code with the vendors and states.  DTRules, as open source has allowed this general purpose decision-making protocol to be used in many states for health and human services projects, commercial websites, university projects, and many other applications.

An active proponent and developer of blockchain based technologies, Paul is a founder of the  the Texas Bitcoin Conference, and currently serves as president and chair. He holds three patents for graphics hardware and system configuration technologies. He is a supporter of and sometimes contributor to  the Colored Coins and Ethereum projects, in addition to driving the development of Factom.

 

Paul earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Louisiana Tech University and his Master’s degree in computer science and electrical engineering from Texas A&M University. Paul Snow is on Reddit.


Date & Time: Wednesday, June 26, 2019, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. BBQ dinner is optional on your own.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information: Slides from the presentation.

Dr. Marcel J. E. Golay,  A Retrospective

May 2019

Topic:

Dr. Marcel J. E. Golay,  A Retrospective

Abstract:



Dr. Marcel J. E. Golay was born in Switzerland and received the License of Electrical Engineer from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich in 1924. Golay then joined Bell Labs in the U.S. for four years before going to the University of Chicago where he received the Ph.D. in physics in 1931. He then joined the U.S. Army Signal Corps at Ft. Monmouth, NJ where he spent much of his career during WWII and thereafter.

Dr. Golay was well known in the field of optical instrumentation; he was a consultant with and later employed by Perkin Elmer for many years where he improved the Golay Infra-Red Detector. Golay applied mathematics to many problems resulting in contributions to communication codes, error detecting and correction codes and other advances in electronics. Golay returned to the Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich near the end of his life.
Speaker:

Robert D. (Bob) Hunter
Speaker's Bio:

Robert D. (Bob) Hunter is a retired manager of regulatory compliance and consultant whose published books treat intellectual property (IP) from a management perspective (not a "how-to"). Bob was one of the founders of the IEEE Consultants organization and served as Chair of the Central Texas Section (1980). Bob is a Life Senior Member (LS) of the IEEE, a Life Member of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), and a Fellow of The Society for Standards Professionals (SES). Bob obtained BS and MS degrees in electrical engineering from Drexel University in 1959 and 1962, respectively. Bob was employed at Philco as a Patent Engineering Specialist for 12 years.
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 22, 2019, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. BBQ dinner is optional on your own.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information:

When Artificial Intelligence (AI) meets Human Intelligence (HI): A Road to World Wide Intelligence

April 2019

Topic:

 When Artificial Intelligence (AI) meets Human Intelligence (HI): A Road to World Wide Intelligence

Abstract:

The technology transformation across industries is happening at an exponential pace. The presentation will provide a window into the future of the impact of this transformation on the human resources departments across the world. The journey will include the history of human evolution to the rise of AI and modern-day technologies. It will also discuss how we can prepare for the upcoming revolution and thrive in the new world.

Speaker:

Adil Dalal, Director, Human Architecture, Hitachi Global Digital Holdings, Global Social Innovation Business.
Speaker's Bio:

Dalal is the Director, Solution Architecture, at Hitachi Global Digital Holdings, Global Social Innovation Business. He is a technical and business solutions expert for digital enterprise and IoT solutions across multiple industry verticals. Prior to that he was the CEO of Pinnacle Process Solutions, Intl®, LLC; past-Chair of ASQ's Human Development & Leadership division and past-Education and Certification Chair of Lean Enterprise Division of ASQ.

Adil’s book "The 12 Pillars of Project Excellence: A Lean Approach to Improving Project Results" is the winner of the prestigious “2015 ASQ Philip B. Crosby Medal”, “2014 Shingo Research and Publication award” and “2013 Axiom Best Business book award”. 

Adil has also authored "A Legacy Driven Life" and co-authored ASQ's “Lean Handbook” for Bronze Certification.   He has pioneered several innovations like: Sensei Leadership™, iLean® Technology, iCulture™, Lean Project leadership™, Holistic Lean®, and other advanced technologies like The V-Factor™ and Pinnacle Performance Zone™.

Date & Time: Tuesday, Apr 16, 2019, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: BBQ sinner on your own.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information:

No IEEE Central Texas Consultants Network Meeting for March

March 2019

Topic:

None, Zip, Nada, Nein, 沒 有, Hет, Pas, לא, No

Abstract:

Other upcoming meetings you might be interested in:

Power and Energy, (PI)2 Chapter – Austin (PES/PELS/IAS/IES)

 

Tuesday, March 26, 6:30 – 8:30 PM , Dinner, Social and Bus mtg 6 – 7:00, Program 7:00 – 8:30

Cover 3     

2700 West Anderson Lane

Austin, Texas 78757

Topic:  Dynamic Stability on the ERCOT Transmission System

Speaker: John Schmall, ERCOT Dynamic Studies Department

Cost: We ask that all attendees order at least $20 in food and drink, or consider this to be a cover charge.

Students are welcome!  PI2 will reimburse up to $20 of meal expense for IEEE student members attending our Technical Meeting.

RSVP: Please register using IEEE Vtools at: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/193020

For more information: Please Email: pi2-secretary@ieee.org


TAG – Technologies Advisors Group

 

Friday, March 29, 7:00 AM – 8:30 AM    ***  BREAKFAST MEETING  ***

Calavista Software

3700 North Capital of Texas Hwy, Suite 450

Austin

Topic: Tethr - Actionable Insights from Customer Interactions

Registration: https://www.tagaustin.org

Cost: $17.50 before 27-March, $20 after

Information and registration: https://tagaustin.org/

For more information: Contact Bill Kleinebecker  at  akleineb@alum.mit.edu

 

IEEE CTS EMC Chapter Meeting

 

Monday, April 8, 6:00 -- 8:30 PM

6:00pm - Social/food 
7:00pm - Chapter Meeting 
7:20pm - Technical Presentation 
8:20pm - Wrap-up 

8:30pm - Meeting ends 

ETS-Lindgren

1301 Arrow Point Drive

Room 110

Cedar Park

https://www.google.com/maps/place/ETS-Lindgren/@30.5347628,-97.8033734,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x865b2cdc99c718b9:0x557e778d9489421b!8m2!3d30.5347628!4d-97.8033734

Topic: Reverberation Chambers

Speaker: Alistair Duffy, De Montfort University

For meeting information, contact Ross Carlton at ross.carlton@ieee.org or 512-531-2747.


Speaker:
 
Speaker's Bio:

Date & Time: Wednesday, Mar 27, 2019, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information:

Add a Computer to your Design through SIP Technology

February 2019

Topic:

Add a Computer to your Design through SIP Technology

Abstract:

Now even novices to hardware can build a Linux computer, right at the custom PCB level, enabling you to define your own features and form-factor to meet your precise computing needs. Fit a computer into a tiny IoT container with System-in-Package technology! Neeraj Dantu will walk through how SiP integrates heterogeneous processors, memory, and power under one easy to layout package and how it lowers the HW, SW and boot complexity as well as time to production. He'll also take a look at how this technology brings building a Linux PC within reach of the larger community of embedded systems designers.

Speaker:
Neeraj Danju  , Engineer, Octavo Systems


Email: 
Speaker's Bio:
Neeraj Danju

Neeraj Dantu is an Applications and Systems Engineer at Octavo Systems. In his role, Neeraj develops application software and hardware utilizing System-in-Package (SiP) technology changing the face of electronic design and manufacturing. With diverse experience in Linux operating systems, hardware design, machine learning, computer vision, and signal processing, Neeraj brings a fresh perspective and experience to customers using the Octavo Systems SiP products. Neeraj earned his B.Tech (Bachelor of Technology) in Electronics and Communications Engineering from The LNM Institute of Information Technology, India, and a Masters in Electrical Engineering from Rice University.


Date & Time: Wednesday, Feb 27, 2019, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Please register here to ensure we do not exceed the capacity of the venue.
For more information: Slides from the presentation.

Plant Tour of M3 Systems

January 2019

Topic:
This month the IEEE Central Texas Consultants Network and IEEE PI2 Austin is jointly inviting you to have a tour of M3 Design.
Please RSVP with Steve Pearson if you wish to attend. See detail info below.

COMSOC/EBMS
You are also invited to attend

IEEE Austin ComSoC/SP and EMBS & Computer Joint chapters are presenting

"Collaborative Technologies trends in 2019 that will disrupt the market in 2020"

by Fawzi Behmann, President, TelNet Management Consulting, Inc.

PLEASE RSVP – (is required to access the AT&T Building)

https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/185661



Date & Time: Tuesday, Jan 29, 2019, 5:45 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: 575 Round Rock West Dr., Round Rock, Texas 78681, Building: Suite 100
Map: map
Cost: Free
Reservations: Please contact Steve Pearson, IEEE PES/IAS?PELS/IES Austin Chapter. (512) 466-1450, steve@pearsonstrategy.com
For more information:
February Tour
IEEE PI2 Austin also invites you to a tour of Thermon in early February.
Please go here to see more information and RSVP.

IEEE ComSoc/SP and CTCN

December 2018

Topic:

Joint Holiday Social and Networking Event





 

You are invited to share an evening with your colleagues and enjoy some holiday cheer.
 
COMSOC/SP and CTCN will provide the snacks and a drink.  Anything more is up to you.



Date & Time: Tuesday, December 18, 2018, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Opal Devine's Marina Austin Grill,
12709 Mopac & Parmer Lane in north Austin, TX 78727

(on Mo-Pac north bound frontage road in front of Fry's Electronics)
Map: map
Cost: COMSOC/SP and CTCN will provide the snacks and a drink.  Anything more is up to you.
Reservations: Please register at https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/183839 so that we know approximately how many are coming. You do not need to be a member of IEEE to register. Last minute walk-ins and guests welcome.
For more information:
The COMSOC/SP website is: https://sites.ieee.org/ct-comsp  https://sites.ieee.org/ct-comsp

Texas Board of Professional Engineers - Professional Practice Update/Ethics

November 2018

Topic:

Texas Board of Professional Engineers - Professional Practice Update/Ethics

Abstract:

Updates on engineering ethics and Code of Conduct, Board Activities, rule and statutory changes, and general updates on Board initiatives.


Speaker:
Rick Strong   rick.strong@engineers.texas.gov
Speaker's Bio:

Rick D. Strong, P.E. joined the Texas Board of Professional Engineers in April 2017 as the Director of Licensing. As the Director of the Licensing Division, he oversees the review of all PE applications, Firm registrations, EIT certifications and renewals in the State of Texas. The Licensing division reviews more than 3,000 PE applications per year and handles the renewals for close to 64,000 licensed Texas PEs and approximately 10,400 registered engineering Firms.

He has 31 years of experience in the Texas coal mining industry; he is knowledgeable in all aspects of mining engineering and mine operations. Rick has been a licensed professional engineer in Texas since 1992.

He is a 1985 graduate from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering.

He resides in the Austin area with his wife Cindy. They enjoy their large family of six grown children and seven grandchildren.

Date & Time: Wednesday, November 24, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Reservations are requested at https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/181967
For more information:

How to Get More Projects, Automatically

October 2018

Topic:

How to Get More Projects, Automatically

Abstract:

For a consultant client, we generated $5m of sales opportunities in 3 weeks. 
All they had to do is respond quickly to the prospects who raised their hand and said "Yes" to the offer. 
In this 45 minute dinner presentation, Malcolm will show you how this strategy works, 
and how you can execute it yourself.


Speaker:
Malcolm Lui   www.eversprint.com
Speaker's Bio:
 Malcolm Lui
Malcolm Lui is the Managing Member of Eversprint, LLC, an Austin based 
agency that specializes in generating more high ticket sales through automation for their clients.

Pre-event attendee survey: So that Malcolm can tailor his presentation for your needs, please complete this survey on or before Monday, October 22nd: f.eversprint.com/ieee-survey
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 24, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information: Slides from the presentation.


Should You Patent It Yourself

September 2018

Topic:

Should You Patent It Yourself

Abstract:

Patents have, to some extent, fallen out of favor for the protection of certain Intellectual Property (IP). Recent statistics indicate as many as 80% of all issued patents are invalid because of poor quality of processing at the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO).

For many years, some inventors have obtained patents without the services of a Patent Attorney or Agent using David Pressman’s fine book but there are some practical and management issues with that.

Bob will review these issues for certain situations and will describe a hybrid approach that has worked well.

Note:
Bob is not a patent attorney or agent and therefore cannot provide legal advice on the subject.


Speaker:
Bob Hunter   Email: robert.hunter2119@att.net
Speaker's Bio:
Bob Hunter

Robert D. (Bob) Hunter is a retired manager of regulatory compliance and consultant whose published books treat intellectual property (IP) from a management perspective (not a "how-to"). Bob was one of the founders of the IEEE Consultants organization and served as Chair of the Central Texas Section (1980). Bob obtained BS and MS degrees in electrical engineering from Drexel University in 1959 and 1962, respectively. Bob was employed at Philco as a Patent Engineering Specialist for 12 years.

Date & Time: Wednesday, September 26, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information:


Audio Forensics: A Brief Survey and Personal Experience

August 2018

Topic:

Audio Forensics: A Brief Survey and Personal Experience

Abstract:

A discussion of what it takes to be an expert witness, and Mr. Beck's 20 year history and perspective on Audio Forensics.


Speaker:
Steve Beck of Beck Forensic Audio Consulting, Email: stevenbeck@alumni.rice.edu
Speaker's Bio:
Steve Beck

Steve Beck holds a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from 
Rice University in Houston TX. He was an Engineering Fellow with BAE Systems and is now the owner of 
Beck Forensic Audio Consulting.

Mr. Beck has served as an expert witness on a number of cases involving audio analysis. He was in charge 
of audio forensics research for speaker and gunshot recognition on contracts with the FBI, developing gunshot 
localization systems on contracts with the U.S. Army, and a was a DARPA principal investigator for the 
Bionic Ear program (with MIT) and the DARPA neural network sonar recognition program (with UT Austin).

Date & Time: Wednesday, August 22, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information:


Also on Meetup site:

Upcoming Event: Successful Consulting in 2018: an IEEE Workshop

Central Texas Consultants Network presents a workshop co-sponsored by the Austin Life Member Affinity Group and Mercer Consumer.

Topic: Risk control: Protecting your business from financial threats

Come to this workshop and hear successful consultants share their experiences. Learn what you need to know about professional liability insurance including case studies and risk vignettes, contracts and contract provisions, and the IEEE member group plan.


  SPEAKERS

Steve Stephanides

Steve Stephanides of Beazley

Biography:

Steve is an underwriter for architects and engineers professional liability. He also is the Head of Office for Philadelphia. He joined Beazley as an Architects and Engineers underwriter in January, 2006, based in Philadelphia.

Jim Jacobsen

Jim Jacobsen of Mercer Consumer

Biography:

Jim Jacobsen, leads the Professional Liability Engineers Program for Mercer Consumer.  Jim’s responsibilities include managing the Professional Liability program for IEEE and supporting the customer experience. He has over  20 years of insurance experience, the last 5 managing Architects & Engineers Professional Liability Programs.

Address:Mercer Consumer, 12421 Meredith Drive, Urbandale, Iowa, United States, 50398




Attendees of this workshop will experience an interactive, multi-media presentation covering Contracts and Contract Provisions, Professional Liability Claim Case Studies, Professional Liability Risk for Engineers video vignettes and discussion with the subject matter expert.

Key Take-aways:

* How you can identify risk in contract provisions and what to negotiate for your own protection

* How even the most seasoned engineering firms and professionals may become involved in litigation, whether frivolous or warranted, and how your insurance responds

* How to reduce your risk of financial loss, reputation loss and loss of time with specific risk management tips

Subject matter expert: Steve Stephanides, RPLU, MBA, of the Specialty Lines/A&E practice at Beazley Group. Steve is the lead underwriter for Beazley, as it pertains to the IEEE member’s professional liability insurance program.

Program expert: Jim Jacobsen, Sr. Associate at Mercer Consumer, IEEE Professional Liability Insurance Program manager

Register early and save.  Save $10 by registering before midnight, September 7th.  (IEEE Life and Student Members have their own reduced rate not subject to this deadline.)

Cost for this workshop (in advance/after September 7th or walk up)

$25/$35 IEEE Members (except Life and Student Members)

$30/$40 non-IEEE members

$10/$10 IEEE Life and Student Members

Cancellation requests must be received by midnight Friday, August 31st.  Refunds will be by check and subject to a 20% administration fee.  Send cancellation requests to Lester Johnson at L.Johnson@ieee.org.

Walk-ins please pay at the event with cash, or a check made out to "IEEE-CTS."  No credit cards at the door, please.


Date: 8 September 2018

Time: 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET (16:00 to 21:00 UTC-04)

Location: ACC Highland Campus, 6101 Highland Campus Dr., Austin, TX 78752, Room 310. maps

Registration: https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/175261

Members and non-members are welcome.

AI Edge Inference

July 2018

Topic:

AI Edge Inference

Abstract:

"AI Edge Inference" has been getting significant attention lately, but what is it? This presentation discusses what neural networks are, what inference is, why the edge matters, and who Mythic is. In the end, attendees should understand the purpose of the space and how it affects computing.


Speaker:
Dave Fick  https://davefick.com/
Speaker's Bio:
Dave Fick

Me (Dave Fick)

Dave Fick is the CTO and co-founder of Mythic, an Austin-based startup that is creating the next generation of inference microchips. Mythic uses mixed-signal computing to achieve 20-100x improvements in neural network performance for edge devices, and has raised $55M from top-tier investors to execute on this vision. Dave Fick earned his Ph.D. from the University of Michigan.

Date & Time: Wednesday, July 25, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information:
Slides from the presentation.


Ultra-paranoid Computing for the Consumer

June 2018

Topic:

Ultra-paranoid Computing for the Consumer

Abstract:

A brief history of security failures underscores the ultra-paranoid assumptions. 

Multiple parts separated onto safe media and stored in safe places can address even the 
ultra-paranoid assumptions.


Speaker:
David Pruett
Speaker's Bio:
David Pruett

David Pruett's 50-plus year obsession with computers has resulted in several
unintended consequences.  His 5th grade fascination with the economic model
in Danny Dunn and the Homework Machine continues unabated to this day.
Danny Dunn's secret Homework Machine (a computer) frees the protagonist to
go out and play while the other kids toil.  The quest for Homework Machines
has molded Mr. Pruett's interests towards those fields capable of producing
Homework Machines, and those that study how to benefit from them.

Eventually the Homework Machines helped bring to life an array of amazing
early prototype devices, which as often as not ended up becoming Homework
Machines themselves.  Having the world's first tablet computer twenty years
before the other kids was a significant step in the quest for Homework
Machines.  Likewise blazingly fast parallel machines, and other devices.
Amazing people with amazing wisdom tend to come along with amazing devices,
and Mr. Pruett is casually working on material for a blog about some of the
devices and people that shaped our world.

If the person with the coolest toys wins, money does not get you the VERY
coolest toys that can't be bought at any price.  From Kahneman's 2010
Princeton study, neither does it get you happiness.  One of Pruett's more
recent results in economics incorporates Kahneman's results to derive the
supply curve for labor.  In excess of ten people have retired almost
immediately after seeing the result.  Mr Pruett is currently majoring in Fun
at Texas State University, without enrolling or attending formal classes.
Recent reports suggest students actually went as Pruett for Halloween.

Homework Machines involve focusing on eliminating the largest obstacles to
fun, which is sometimes no longer homework, but fear.  His computer security
project is now in its 6th year of testing.

Date & Time: Wednesday, June 27, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information:
Slides from the presentation.


FPGA Chips: Introduction, History, and Applications

May 2018

Topic:

FPGA Chips: Introduction, History, and Applications

Abstract:

Field Programmable Gate Arrays have been around for over 30 years are and are now into their 3rd generation.  A convenient way to study them and their applications is to follow the timeline and their expanding capabilities.  The talk uses Steve Trimberger’s retrospective on FPGA technology with introductory material and greater focus on applications.

Speaker:
Jim Brakefield, jim.brakefield@ieee.org
Speaker's Bio:
Jim Brakefield
Life Senior Member, IEEE

He holds a BS-Applied Math from University of Wisconsin and Masters of Science (Computer Science and EE) also from UW.  His professional career includes work in the Avionics, Semiconductor , Life Sciences and Communications industries as well as Image Processing and video.

He has experience in assembly language programming on over a dozen processors usually in the context of hard real-time embedded systems.  He has done FPGA projects: small, medium and not that large.  He does circuit board design and systems architecture including microprocessors, FPGAs, power supply, analog and data conversion.

He is currently examining computer architecture in the context of FPGA soft core processors.


Date & Time: Wednesday, May 23, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information: Slides from the presentation.


Black Holes and Their Degenerate Friends

April 2018

Topic:

Black Holes and Their Degenerate Friends

Abstract:

The astrophysics of astronomical objects depends on equilibrium between forces of expansion and
contraction. Black holes represent a failure of this balance. There have been scientific puzzles of how
intermediate, massive and super-massive black holes came to exist. A new source of information in the
form of gravitational waves, comparable to Galileo's first use of a telescope to study the sky is
producing new results that promise to greatly accelerate progress in this field.

Speaker:
Clyde Springen 
Email: springen@sbcglobal.net 
Speaker's Bio:
Clyde Springen
BSEE, Mastron - Retired - Systems and Software Engineer & Adjunct Professor of Astronomy and Engineering.

Was privileged to have a 47 year career as an engineer and teacher. Engineering
alumnus of Texas Instruments, Lockheed Missiles and Space, Northrop Grumman and
Textron. Primary technology areas in Engineering were in Artificial Intelligence –
robotics, machine vision, and expert planning systems, tracking and data fusion, and
in Astronomy - photometry analysis and galactic simulation. Worked on applications
including surface systems for missiles and rockets, conveyor belt robot and vision
systems, automated test systems and corps level army battle planning systems. Some
highlights include creating a rule-based countdown sequencer for NASA, developing
an innovative state-machine based application programming language for robots resulting in two
patents and developing a fault-isolation sub-system to diagnose failure in digital circuit cards. As a
teacher at Austin Community College taught Introduction to Engineering, Solar System and Stellar
Astronomy courses. Also obtained a NASA grant to incorporate satellite telemetry into engineering
curriculum.

Date & Time: Wednesday, Apr 25, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information: Slides from the presentation. Here is the neutron star merger video.

Using Blockchain for AI Authenticity

March 2018

Topic:

Using Blockchain for AI Authenticity

Abstract:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is only as good as the data upon which it is based. Standards for identification of data sources for historical data are virtually non-existent. Join Karen Kilroy, CEO of Kilroy Blockchain, for a discussion of why the data science and AI communities need to collaborate to make AI sources of data verifiable. We will also share ideas on how we can establish ways for consumers of AI to verify that no one has tampered with the data.

Speaker:
Karen Kilroy
Speaker's Bio:
Karen Kilroy is a life-long technologist with heart.  Living in Austin, Texas, she has invented several products including Kilroy Blockchain PaaS, Riley, and Carnak.  Karen believes that artificial intelligence and virtual reality don't have to be scary and that technology can be proactively designed to be used for good. Karen's background includes many years of working as an open source software engineer, which has prepared her for the new world of cognitive intelligence and immutable ledgers.

Karen is also a professional dragon boat coach, and currently volunteers to coach the Wildcats at the Texas School of the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Karen lives in downtown Austin, Texas, is the host of the IBM Watson Cognitive Tech Meetup and of the OroPlatform Meetup, and is co-host of the Blockchain for Business Meetup.

Date & Time: Wednesday, Mar 28, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information: Slides to presentation

Light-field Display Architecture and Properties

February 2018

Topic:

Light-field Display Architecture and Properties

Abstract:

Human binocular vision and acuity, and the accompanying 3D retinal processing of the human eye and brain are specifically designed to promote situational awareness and understanding in the natural 3D world. The ability to resolve depth within a scene whether natural or artificial improves our spatial understanding of the scene and as a result reduces the cognitive load accompanying the analysis and collaboration on complex tasks.

A light-field display projects 3D imagery that is visible to the unaided eye (without glasses or head tracking) and allows for perspective correct visualization within the display’s projection volume. Binocular disparity, occlusion, specular highlights and gradient shading, and other expected depth cues are correct from the viewer’s perspective as in the natural real-world light-field.

Light-field displays are no longer a science fiction concept and a few companies are producing impressive light-field display prototypes. This presentation will review the application agnostic light-field display architecture being developed at FoVI3D. In addition, general light-field display properties and characteristics such as view angle, directional resolution, and their effect on the 3D aerial image will be discussed.

Speaker:
Thomas Burnett, tburnett@fovi3d.com, www.fovi3d.com
Speaker's Bio:

Thomas Burnett graduated from Texas A&M University in 1989 with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. He has spent 25+ years developing, architecting, and managing computer software and hardware projects including processor logic synthesis and simulation, 2D image processing pipelines, 2D/3D and light-field rendering solutions, 3D physics engines and 2D/3D games.

Thomas has been a developer/manager with multiple visualization start-up companies in and around Austin's Silicon Hills. At Applied Science Fiction (ASF) he co-developed image processing libraries and a processing pipeline to render images from exposed yet undeveloped 35mm film. As the software lead at Zebra Imaging, Thomas was a key contributor in the development of static light-field topographic maps for use by the Department of Defense in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was the computation architect for the DARPA Urban Photonic Sandtable Display (UPSD) program which produced several wide-area light-field display prototypes for human factors testing and research.

More recently, Thomas launched a new light-field display development program at FoVI3D where he serves as President and CTO. FoVI3D is developing a next-generation light-field display architecture and display prototype to further socialize the cognitive benefit of spatially accurate 3D aerial imagery.

Date & Time: Wednesday, Feb 28, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information:

The Drone of Drones

January 2018

Topic:

The Drone of Drones

Abstract:
It seems everywhere you turn these days there's something about Drones. Yet the information tends to be at once both scattered in subject and specific to one particular type of Drone - QuadCopters. But the industry itself has much more reach and potential - yet has many hazards from both malevolent and untrained users and regulatory systems that are much less agile than the technology and the industry itself. We'll take a look at the various industry components that make up assorted drone markets, and the potentials they promise
Speaker:
Philip Wheat
Speaker's Bio:
Philip Wheat is an industry veteran who has been active in the computer industry for over 20 years. With experience stretching back to the beginnings of the PC era, he has remained active on the leading edges of technology focusing on embedded systems, knowledge management, and sensor technologies. He is one of the few who has worked with SharePoint since the original beta, built his own microprocessor, and who has had robotics projects featured in the press and TV shows around the world. He is currently CTO and Chief Architect of WBC Drone - focused on the usage of various technologies to assist in Drone management and safety.
Date & Time: Wednesday, Jan 24, 2018, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information: Presentation slides are here.
  https://www.slideshare.net/PhilWh/the-drone-of-drones

IEEE Central Texas Consultants Network & Life Members
HiTech Holiday Social and Networking Event

You are invited to share an evening with your colleagues and enjoy some holiday cheer. The Central Texas Consultants Network and the Life Members affinity groups will provide the snacks and a drink. Anything more is up to you.


December 2017

Topic:

HiTech Holiday Social and Networking Event

Date & Time: Wednesday  Dec 7, 2017, 5pm - 7pm.
Location: Sherlock's Baker Street Pub and Grill, 9012 Research Blvd., Austin, TX 78758. Southeast corner of Burnet Road and US 183/Research Blvd.
Map: map
Cost: The Central Texas Consultants Network and the Life Members affinity groups will provide the snacks and a drink. Anything more is up to you.
Reservations: https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/48654 so that we know approximately how many are coming.  Last minute walk-ins and guests are welcome.
For more information:

Artificial Intelligence with Search-Basaed Function Computation Model

November 2017

Topic:

Artificial Intelligence with Search-Basaed Function Computation Model

Abstract

We should consider search-based function computation model, not just expression-based function computation model, because if we use the search-based function computation model, then "parallel computation" can be applied. If you use the expression-based function computation model, then computations are sequential as specified in a programming language. I call the search-based function computation model "Fuzzy Similarity for Function Computation Model", which is basically a table lookup and a nearest neighbor classifier approach. For example, before we had a computer, we used "sin(x)" table. If we are given 66 degrees, we look up the table to find the result.

To find a "best fuzzy similar" vector, I use "parallel reduction method" by using 5000 cores in a GPU. If you have 20 million samples, divide them by 5000, each core just need to search 4000 samples. This is manageable even we need to use procedural loops.

In this talk, I'll first give a demo of OpenCL C++. Then, I'll describe "Fuzzy Similarity for Function Computation Model". Finally, I'll give another demo on flower image recognition.

Speaker:
CL Chang
Speaker's Bio: CL Chang received his PhD in 1967 from University of California, Berkeley. He was with National Institutes of Health, IBM San Jose Research Lab, and Lockheed Software Center. He now has his own company, Nicesoft Corporation. His fields are AI, Relational Databases, and Software Engineering. He has published several books and about 50 papers. He has engaged in many discussions in the Berkeley Initiative in Soft Computing (BISC) and North America Taiwanese Engineering and Science Association (NATEA). For the more detailed information, click on the following link: https://www.nicesoftsearch.com/bio.html
Date & Time: Wednesday  Nov 15, 2017, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information:

Officers Elections
Proposed Slate of CTCN 2018 Officers and Call for Nominations

We will elect officers for 2018 by voice vote in the November 15th meeting.  Nominations are now open.  If you would like to nominate someone, including yourself, for a position please do so via email to Bill Martino, bill.martino@ieee.org, by November 8th.  Keep in mind that the Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer must be members of IEEE.

Here is the proposed slate:

        Chair: Jody Everett

        Vice Chair: Luis Basto

        Secretary: Bill Martino

        Treasurer: Jody Everett

        Program Manager / Membership: Les Johnson

        Webmaster: Luis Basto

        Member at Large: Sergio Liberman

        Member at Large: Kai Wong


Embedded Non-Volatile Memories for Intelligent IoT

October 2017

Topic:   Embedded Non-Volatile Memories for Intelligent IoT
Abstract

Betty will repeat her Keynote Presentation given at the Leading Edge Embedded NVM Workshop, held in Gardanne, France, in September.  An Intelligent Internet of Things (IIoT) will require diverse embedded non-volatile memories (eNVM).  eNVM is used in: wearable medical networks, car networks, smart home and building networks, traffic control networks and public utility networks. These, together with other networks, will form eventually smart interconnected cities using millions of processors with eNVM.  Varieties of eNVM will be needed to satisfy the diverse requirements of these networks ranging from single poly EEPROMs to large 3D RRAM neuromorphic processors. eRRAM, eMRAM, eCBRAM, ePCM and eFeRAM with differing properties will also be needed.

Speaker:
Dr. Betty Prince
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Betty Prince is CEO of Memory Strategies International. She has also  worked with Texas Instruments, NV Philips, Motorola, RCA and Fairchild.  She is author of several books on memory technology including: Semiconductor Memories (1992), High Performance Memories (1999), 3D Vertical Memory Technologies (2014) (all John Wiley & Sons), and Emerging Memories - Technologies and Trends, (2002) (Springer). She is a Senior Life Member of the IEEE and has served as an IEEE SSCS Distinguished Lecturer. She  founded the JEDEC JC-16 Interface Committee and was Co-Chair of the JC42.2 SRAM Standards Committee.  She has served on the Technical Advisory Board of several memory companies and on the Board of Directors of Mosaid Technologies. She holds patents in the memory, processor and interface areas. She has a B.S. and M.S. in physics and math  from UNM and U. of Calif., Berkeley, and an M.B.A and Ph.D. from UT with doctoral dissertation on fractal modeling.
Date & Time: Wednesday  Oct 25, 2017, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information:

Successful Consulting in 2017: an IEEE Workshop

September 2017

Topic: Successful Consulting in 2017: an IEEE Workshop
Presentations:

Click on link to view or
download presentation

Joe Redfield: The Road To Consulting

Joel Sandahl: Consulting on Purpose

Harold Ingersoll: Accounting and Tax Issues Related to Starting Your Own Consulting Firm

Marc Miller:  Looking at Your Career from a Turkey's Perspective and What To Do Instead

David Smith: A Structured Approach for Looking at the Future

Date & Time: Saturday,  September 23, 2017, 12:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Location: Highland Business Center, ACC, 5930 Middle Fiskville Rd., Austin, TX 78752, Room No. 301.0
Map: map
Cost:

$20/$30 IEEE Members (except Life and Student Members)

$25/$35 non-IEEE members

$10/$10 IEEE Life and Student Members



For more information.
Download the printable Brochure for detailed information about the Workshop.




Volunteers Needed to Help Victims of Hurricane Harvey


Please consider the following request for support of our fellow Texans in this time of need.  You do not need to be an IEEE member to volunteer.

IEEE-USA MOVE has been deployed to Texas to help with disaster recovery efforts. Hurricane Harvey has intensified to a category 2 hurricane and is expected to reach category 3 as it hits landfall late Friday/early Saturday. Life-threatening conditions are expected to last for days and 30+ inches of rain, 120+ miles per hour winds, and significant storm surges/flooding expected. 

·  Web: https://move.ieeeusa.org

·  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ieeeusamove

We may need additional disaster relief technology volunteers or people with photography/social media skills. If interested, please respond to me at d.iams@ieee.org.

Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions,

David Iams




Vintage Electronics Show-and-Tell

August 2017

Topic: Vintage Electronics Show-and-Tell
Abstract: Do you have an interesting, portable, piece of old electronic gear you would like to share with the group? A ham receiver, stereo amplifier, five-tube radio, piece of radar, etc.? Bring it to PoK-e-Jo's and we'll indulge in a bit of nostalgia looking at these things as we eat barbeque. You will have a chance to speak to the group and give the behind the scenes story associated with your item if you desire. There is only one rule: anything with an integrated circuit inside is too new.
Date & Time: Wednesday  August 23, 2017, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Upcoming Events
Successful Consulting in 2017: an IEEE Workshop
Saturday, September 23, 12:20pm to 5:00pm

Agenda

12:20  -- 12:50     Registration and Networking

12:50  --   1:00     Welcome & Opening Remarks

  1:00  --   1:40     "The Road to Consulting," Joe Redfield of Redfield Consulting Services

  1:45  --   2:25     "Consulting on Purpose," Joel Sandahl of ZX Technologies, Inc.

  2:30 --   3:00      "Advice from an Accountant for Those Starting a Consulting Business," Harold Ingersoll of Atchley & Associates, LLP

                              20 min. Break

   3:20  --   4:00     "Looking at Your Career from a Turkey's Perspective and What to do Instead," Marc Miller of Career Pivot

   4:05  --   4:45     "A Structured Approach for Looking at the Future," David Smith of Strategic Pathways

   4:45  --   5:00     Networking

 



Good Password Hygiene:  Protecting Your Personal  Information

July 2017

Topic: Good Password Hygiene: Protecting Your Personal Information
Abstract: Larry Moore, of Tangoe, will speak about threats to your personal information on the internet, and describe tools and techniques for creating secure passwords.
Speaker: Larry Moore
Email:
Speaker's Bio: Larry Moore has thirty years of experience in Information Technology, specializing in Information Security in the last eighteen years.  His projects span diverse areas of Information Security, including architecture, secure software development, penetration testing, server administration, project management, and executive management. He was employed by the State of Texas, working on critical infrastructure protection.  Upon graduation from college Larry worked for NASA.  Following that, he developed applications, device drivers and kernel extensions for various operating systems, such as OS2, Windows, and UNIX.  His work on the AIX security kernel included audit, single sign-on, PKI.  Development of a behavioral-based intrusion detection tool became a precursor to his migration to the information security field.  He recently served as the lead Solution Security Officer for Gemalto’s North American region.  There he ensured the proper delivery of security requirements for the company’s trusted platforms and mobile payment solutions for large an small customers.  He also audited, designed, or modified the security programs for three of the company’s large data centers, enabling customer mobile payment processing.

Larry serves on the board at the Computer Science department at Parker University in Dallas and at the Austin chapter of the International Systems and Security Association.  He is Vice-President and IT Sector Chief for the Austin chapter of Infragard.  He has given numerous presentations and authored several articles on security architecture, threat intelligence, and software development.  Larry has a degree in Computer Science from Florida Institute of Technology.
Date & Time: Wednesday  July 26, 2017, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.
Slides to presentation

Integration of Drones into Multiple Business Models

June 2017

Topic: Integration of Drones into Multiple Business Models
Abstract:
You will have the opportunity to visit with representatives from an industry leading drone imaging firm. Examples of work done for a number of industries will be shared including, architectural engineering & design, oil research & production, motion picture & television, commercial real estate marketing, and industrial assessments. You will leave with an understanding of Federal, State and Local regulations and how they may impact your ability to utilize drone imaging.
Speaker: Robert Youens
Email: robert@camerawings.com
Camera Wings Aerial Photography
Speaker's Bio: Robert Youens is the owner of Camera Wings Aerial Photography.  Studying Engineering at Texas A&M, College Station, and Business at The University of Texas, Austin, has given Mr. Youens a solid base to drive technology in the immerging field of small Unmanned Aircraft Systems / Drones. The past 8 years have been focused on unmanned aircraft development, advancing flight control, integration of modern photogrammetry (digital aerial mapping), architectural analysis and motion picture cinematography techniques. His team of developers include a leading Defense Department imaging expert, flight systems designers, computing specialists, video editors and cinematographers that are pushing the bleeding edge of UAS usage. While others are involved in UAS development, with Mr. Youens every second of every day is 100% committed to Drone imaging advancement. Check out CameraWings.com.

Some examples of his work in the U.S. and internationally include:

  1. Architectural View Analysis of future high rises in Houston, Boston, Dallas, Denver, Minneapolis, Seattle, and Austin. This work is done with a Patent Pending drone camera system developed by Camera Wings Aerial Photography. 

  2. 3D mapping of the Circuit Of The Americas race track – Austin, TX, Exuma Chain of Islands in Southern Bahamas for University of Miami, West Caicos Island in Turks & Caicos for University of Texas Bureau of Economic Geology, Bonaire in the Dutch Antilles for Texas A&M. 

  3. Motion Picture and TV cinematography with projects including the recently released feature movie MAX for MGM, Angle Sings working with Texas Director 

  4. Commercial Real Estate: CBRE, Trammel Crow, Stream Realty, HFF, Oxford Commercial, Johnson Development are just a few examples of the movers and shakers Mr. Youens works with in this industry. 


Mr. Youens enjoys public speaking and sharing with all that will listen, the fun and fortunes that can be had with “Drones”.


Date & Time: Wednesday  June 28, 2017, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.
Slides to presentation

The Changing Face of Network Security Management - Packet Delivery Platforms

May 2017

Topic: The Changing Face of Network Security Management - Packet Delivery Platforms
Abstract:
In recent years, huge strides in network management have been made with the advancement of visibility tools, application layer filtering, and centralized management yet many networks are running with the same tools and methodology that were used 15 years ago.  This talk will provide an overview of the ISO standard of FCAPS for network management, provide insights of how to best deploy new network security tools and show the value of a comprehensive network management framework in the field of Cybersecurity.

The challenge for security and performance monitoring of the computing environment is providing these tools visibility across all the areas of the network that need to be monitored.  Traditionally, these tools have been deployed inline at the connection to the Internet or in monitor only mode, they are connected to a SPAN port on a switch or router.

Device based management of your computing environment is no longer sufficient, the next generation of performance and security tools require visibility into the packets passing through the network. Employing the use of a Packet Visibility Platform provides the means to aggregate all sources of network traffic (inline Bypass, SPANs, TAPs, Virtual), sending the right data to the right tool through filtering, cleaning up the data streams by transforming the packet flows and most importantly sending the data to all the tools or tool groups that need to see those packets.

The computing environment is not only an essential component of every major company, it can also provide a competitive edge and be a differentiator in the industry.  The ability to deploy new cybersecurity tools in a timely fashion is key to not only protecting your company from cyber attacks, but also saves time and money.
Speaker: Allen Hébert
Email: allen@allenhebert.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allenhebert/
Speaker's Bio: Allen Hébert, Corporate Blogger, Senior Systems Engineer, Gigamon –With over 25 years of experience in the high-tech industry,  Allen Hébert serves as a senior technical member of Gigamon’s Field Sales Team providing support for Texas and Louisiana customers.  Allen sits on the board of directors for the Capitol of Texas Chapter of ISSA. Prior to Gigamon, Allen held various senior system engineering positions and consulting roles at Brocade, AT&T, Marconi, IBM Global Services and Motorola. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science from St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX.

Summary: Detecting and responding to security breaches in a timely fashion is an essential task of any cybersecurity organization.  Packet Visibility Platforms collect, select, clean and deliver packets from your network to the security tools for analysis and remediation.
Date & Time: Wednesday  May 24, 2017, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Automation Engineering and the Role of the RFID

April 2017

Topic: Automation Engineering and the Role of RFID
Abstract:

Automation engineering is a field we encounter, as expected, in industrial applications, but it also plays a role in our everyday life.  Controls of all kind are part of our life.  Computers with or without robotic integration determine the quality of our experiences when our desires lead us to use technology.  Optimizing the interaction requires sensing of direct and indirect entities, accessing and processing information, followed by execution of appropriate steps.  These are the basic components, and goal, of automation engineering.

We will discuss the basics of automation engineering, including what, why, and how.  Then we will introduce the concept of RFID and its applications in this field.

Speaker: Zafar Taqvi
Email: ztaqvi@gmail.com
Speaker's Bio:

Zafar Taqvi is an Adjunct Engineering Faculty at the University of Houston Clear Lake and a consultant in the area of engineering analysis. He received his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from University of Houston and his M.Sc. (Tech) in Electronics and Radio Engineering, and BS degrees from Allahabad University, India.

Dr Taqvi has worked for aerospace industry at NASA Johnson Space Center for 41 years, taught concurrently at the University of Houston System for 36 years and has held various local, national and international volunteer positions with IEEE, American Institute of Aeronautics and Aeronautics (AIAA), International Society of Automation (ISA), and Clear Lake Council of Technical Societies (CLCTS). His leadership role in pursuing and enhancing the professional objectives of IEEE, not only earned him the Outstanding Member Award by the region but also to his section as the Outstanding Small Section Award internationally by IEEE/MGA.

 

He received Donald Beckman Education Award and Distinguished Service award from ISA, and Third Millennium Award & Medal and Regional Professional Leadership Award twice by IEEE. He was ISA’s Director of Robotics and Expert Systems Division, Director Telemetry Division, V/P Automation and Technology, and Chairman A&T Advisory Board, and IEEE’s Aerospace Society Board member and Director International Operations. Currently he is a member of IEEE Communication Society North American Region (NAR) Board and NAR Distinguished Speaker Coordinator.

 

Dr Taqvi is a Life Fellow of ISA, an Associate Fellow of AIAA, a Life Senior member of IEEE, and has the unique distinction of being a member of five honor societies- Tau Beta Pi, Eta Kappa Nu, Phi Kappa Phi, Omicron Delta Kappa, and Sigma Xi. He is also a Distinguished Toastmaster, and a past District Lt Governor of Toastmasters International District 56.

Date & Time: Wednesday April 26, 2017, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Daring to Do Your Own Patent Searches

March 2017

Topic: Daring to Do Your Own Patent Searches
Abstract:
Patent searches are part science and part art – and often intimidating.  Steve will share some patent research insights with you, and also will touch on other components of prior art research during his presentation.
As a patent research professional, Steve has learned that the methodology is the same for every inventor – large or small: namely, knowing when to search, how to manage your efforts, how to manage uncovered data, recognizing what’s important and knowing when to stop. Plus, you’ll need to know what to ignore and when to search again.
Speaker: Steve Pearson
Email: steve@pearsonstrategy.com
Speaker's Bio:
Researching diverse technologies, for clients ranging from individuals to IP attorneys to large Fortune 500 companies, has taught Steve Pearson a great deal about tailoring the approach for various situations. 
Steve is the founder of The Pearson Strategy Group, LLC which provides services mimicking Innovation Boards in patent research, Competitive Intelligence, Innovation Support, and Strategic Development to the technology, power, consumer, and transportation industries.
His second company, Visionex Holdings, LLC, is an intellectual property holding and licensing company.
Steve is the sole individual inventor of three U.S. patents, all for improvements to the evaporator units of air conditioning systems.
Steve served aboard a Navy submarine as a nuclear reactor operator and electronics technician, graduated from UT San Antonio as an electrical engineer, and has worked in various engineering roles in semiconductor manufacturing with Motorola Semiconductor, piping and fitting manufacturing with Applied Materials, and in research and consulting.
Steve is past chairman and currently the Vice-Chairman for the Austin chapter of the IEEE’s Power and Energy Society and mentors for both the TechShop and Profit Movers.
Date & Time: March Wednesday  22, 2017, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.
Presentation slides

MEMS in Austin, Texas - Days of Disruption, Market Creation and Industry Growth

February 2017

Topic:

MEMS in Austin, Texas – Days of Disruption, Marketing Creation and Industry Growth

Abstract: In 2000, MCC spun out Austin MEMS industry along with cool examples of the technology and the broad applications will be discussed.
Speaker: Brent Lunceford
Email: blunceford@austin.rr.com
Speaker's Bio: Brent Lunceford is a serial innovator who for two decades has driven product innovation and new market entry at both Fortune 500 companies and high-growth ventures. Brent runs Memstronics, a management-consulting firm where he advises companies on product, growth, and supply chain and operations management strategies.

Before Memstronics, Brent worked at 3M’s Global Innovation Center, where he led product and business development for Communication Markets Division and Electronics Materials Division. Prior to that, Brent formed and led engineering and production teams at Silicon Light Machines, which was acquired by Cypress Semiconductor during his tenure. In his early career, he raised funding and managed programs resulting in the development and commercialization of disruptive technology including novel radio frequency communication technology and new microelectronics systems and materials at Austin’s first microelectronics technology consortium, Microelectronic Computer Technology Corporation (known as MCC). His technology was acquired and resulted in the spin out of Teravicta Technology, Austin’s first MEMS company.

Brent is an Entrepreneurial Advisor for the University of Texas-Cockrell School of Engineering Innovation Center. He serves as the founding Chair of the IEEE Central Texas MEMS and Sensors Chapter. In 2013 he was invited by a group of Silicon Valley innovators to serve as a founding Officer of the IEEE San Francisco Bay Area MEMS & Sensors Chapter, the first chapter of its kind under IEEE, where he currently serves on the Executive Committee.
Brent currently lives in Austin, Texas. He holds an Executive MBA from the University of Texas at Austin-McCombs School of Business, as well as B.S. and M.S. degrees in chemistry from Texas State University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 22, 2017, Networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

A Review of IEDM 2016

January 2017

Topic: IEEE CAS/SSCS, CTCN, EDS Joint Meeting: A Review of IEDM 2016
Abstract: The annual IEDM is the Premier Electron Devices Conference. Papers shown at this conference describe technologies that may go into production several years hence or may not. Topics covered at the 2016 IEDM included technology scaling, chips for artificial intelligence and IoT, 3D integration, and various memory devices. Technologies to be reviewed in this talk include: advanced platform technologies, 3D memory and emerging memory advances including MRAMs and RRAMs; 2D devices such as Carbon Nanotube Logic and 1D materials (graphene and MoS); 3D process technology; charge based memories such as MONOS, 3D-NAND Flash, Ferroelectric FETS; and tunnel FETs. Other topics also at the IEDM which will be mentioned but not reviewed include: optoelectronics, displays, sensors, MEMs, power devices, advanced numerical models, simulations, and various reliability issues.
Speaker: Betty Prince
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Betty Prince is CEO of Memory Strategies International. She has also worked with Texas Instruments, NV Philips, Motorola, RCA and Fairchild. She is author of several books on memory technology including: Semiconductor Memories (1992), High Performance Memories (1999), 3D Vertical Memory Technologies (2014) (all John Wiley & Sons), and Emerging Memories - Technologies and Trends, (2002) (Springer). She is a Senior Life Member of the IEEE and has served as an IEEE SSCS Distinguished Lecturer. She founded the JEDEC JC-16 Interface Committee and was Co-Chair of the JC42.2 SRAM Standards Committee. She has served on the Technical Advisory Board of several memory companies and on the Board of Directors of Mosaid Technologies. She holds patents in the memory, processor and interface areas. She has a B.S. and M.S. in physics and math from UNM and U. of Calif., Berkeley, and an M.B.A and Ph.D. from UT with doctoral dissertation on fractal modeling.
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 25, 2017, 6-8:30pm.
Location: 11501 Alterra Parkway, Austin TX 78758
Building: Amazon
Room number: 2nd Floor Conference Rm.
Map: https://google.com/maps/search/11501 Alterra Parkway, Austin, Texas, United States
Cost: Food and beverage provided.
Reservations: Registration is required for admittance to the building. Registration closes at 6pm CST, Monday, January 23.
https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/42761
For more information.

Local Event:
2017 BODYHACKING Conference 
BDYHAX is an annual convention in Austin, TX about taking the hacker/maker methodology to our bodies to achieve each individual's ideal self.

Event: 

Date: Jan 27-29, 2017
Location: Austin Convention Center

Year End Social

December 2016

Topic:

Year End Social

Abstract:
Speaker:
Speaker's Bio:
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 14, 2016, 5-7pm.
Location: Sherlock's Baker Street Pub and Grill, 9012 Research Blvd., Austin, TX 78758. Southeast corner of Burnet Road and US 183/Research Blvd.
Map:
Cost: Complimentary first drink and light snacks.
Reservations: https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/42248
For more information.

FPGA's in 2016

October 2016
Topic: FPGA's in 2016

Abstract:
Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) today are used in many varied applications, including ASIC emulation, robotics, cellphone base stations, electronic test equipment, medical equipment, and military equipment.  They are used anywhere re-programmability is desired.  Their flexibility is desirable for many applications.  This presentation is an overview of present day FPGA technology and application with a focus on the Xilinx FPGA family,  Xilinx is a leader in programmable logic technology with over 51% of the market today(Wikipedia). 
Speaker: Jody Everett
Speaker's Bio: Jody Everett holds a BSEE degree from Oklahoma State University. He has been a digital integrated circuit designer for 32 years and has been issued two patents in telecom chip design.  Also in his three decades of experience he has co-authored the following publications: “Testing a DSP-Based Mixed Signal Telecommunications Chip” and “Autologic II Database, Simulation & DFT Model Generation System”. Jody is a member of IEEE,  IEEE circuits and Systems,  IEEE Central Texas Consultants Network, Asic and FPGA engineers, Austin Hi Tech, and FPGA/CPLD design groups.
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 26, 2016 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/41302
For more information.
Presentation slides

Women In Engineering, the Ethics Gap

September 2016
Topic:

Women In Engineering, the Ethics Gap


Co-sponored by IEEE Women In Engineering

Abstract: Karen will explore the gender differences which have evolved in ethics for men and women.
Speaker: Karen Ulferts, of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI)
Speaker's Bio: Karen Ulferts has been working with unmanned systems since 2005. Her technical career began with the QF-4 Full-Scale Aerial Target Drone performing systems testing and auto pilot software development. She joined with the Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) as the Lone Star Chapter Secretary in 2007, later holding the office of Vice President and is now the Chapter President. Her education includes a bachelor and master of science degree in Industrial Engineering (IE) from the University of Tennessee. Karen has published various papers for ensuring proper documentation and reporting within the engineering decision making process including the moral dilemma of artificial intelligence in autonomous systems.

Interesting TED talk connecting empathy to morality, empathy to hormones, and suggesting differences between men and women:
https://video.ted.com/talk/podcast/2011G/None/PaulZak_2011G-480p.mp4.
View it before the meeting if you wish.
Date & Time: Wednesday, September 28, 2016 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/40914
For more information.

BodyHacking : Improving Yourself Through Science, Data, and Technology

August 2016
Topic:

BodyHacking : Improving Yourself Through Science, Data, and Technology

Abstract: Bodyhackers come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Even "normal" ones. That's because bodyhacking isn't just about appearances. It can relate to inward reflection, chemical adjustment, or even a fancy new watch that connects to a smartphone. The body is a vehicle to be tuned, modified, added to, taken away from, painted, tweaked, and customized. Maybe your preferred method is listed here. Maybe it isn't. Either way, you belong at BDYHAX.
Speaker: Dustin D. Trammell, Chief Executive Officer, Trammell Ventures
Email: dustin@trammell.ventures
https://trammell.ventures/
Speaker's Bio: Dustin brings over 15 years of experience in advanced information security research and architecting secure networks and systems. Having long held an interest in cryptography and privacy he became an early contributor to and adopter of Bitcoin. As best as we can tell, he was second person after Satoshi to join the bitcoin peer-to-peer network and the third person after Hal Finney to transact with the cryptocurrency. His early involvement led him to need to make a public statement in 2013 that he was not Satoshi Nakamoto. Dustin is also a passionate advocate for the bodyhacking/biohacking movement. His knowledge of blockchain and information security technologies serves as a wellspring that inspires and informs his investment and inception decisions.
Date & Time: Wednesday, August 17, 2016 :  6:00 to 8:30 p.m. (2.5 hours)
Location: Cadence Design Systems, 12515-7 Research Boulevard, Suite 130, Austin, TX 78759
Map: map
Cost: Free food and drinks (0% CH3CH2OH)
Reservations: https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/40552
For more information.
Please note: This month's meeting is a Joint session: IEEE Computer Society Austin Chapter, IEEE CTCN and IEEE ComSoc/SP Austin Chapter. Plese note the date and location is different from the regular Consultant meeting as highlighted above. Also, since free food is provided you need to RSVP.

Secure Element - Protecting Your Digital Life

July 2016
Topic:

Secure Element - Protecting Your Digital Life

Abstract: We live in a digital society. How safe is our digital life? What risks are our personal information facing? How do we secure our electronic devices (e.g. smart phones, PCs, passports, smart meters)? How do we safely access online services? Why do our banking cards have chip symbols? Answers to these questions vary through time, location, and context, but some principles of protection are surprisingly steady. To help understand all this, I will first provide some background about secure elements, and then explain how the secure elements provide security and privacy protections in our digital life. We will also learn how products can incorporate these secure elements, how services can utilize them, and how people and machines can benefit from them.
Speaker: Dr. H. Karen Lu
Email:
Speaker's Bio: Dr. H. Karen Lu   is a long time IEEE Senior Member. She is a principal security architect at Gemalto, a digital security company. Karen has over 10 years of experience and expertise in security, risk management, identity and access management, and privacy protection. She holds 19 patents and has 60+ publications spanning several research fields. Karen received her Ph.D. from the University of Pittsgurgh. She holds the Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK), and is a Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP), a contributor to the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) and to the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), and an active member of the Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP).
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 27, 2016 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.
Presentation slides.

Object-based Audio for Home Theater Systems and Video Games

June 2016
Topic:

Object-based Audio for Home Theater Systems and Video Games

Abstract: Home theater systems have seen great advanced in video quality with 4K resolution, 3D and high dynamic range with the recently introduced Ultra HD and Dolby Vision. The correspondent advances for the soundtrack uses object-based audio technology to offer 3D-like sound fields. This presentation will discuss Dolby ATMOS and DTS:X object-based audio, and the applications for home theater, video games and mobile.
Speaker: Sergio Liberman
Email: sergio.liberman@gmail.com
Speaker's Bio: Sergio Liberman   has more than 29 years of experience in the semiconductor industry in design and architecture of over 22 chips including DSP processors, digital-to-analog converters, Class-D audio amplifiers and SoC application processors. Sergio currently develops multi-processor, multi-board systems for high-performance, large channel count digital audio processing. Sergio holds three patents and has authored over 15 technical publications. Sergio received a B.Sc. EE from Tel-Aviv University, Israel. Sergio is a Senior Member of the IEEE.
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 22, 2016 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.
Presentation slides.

Epidermal Sensor Systems for Sensing and Therapy

May 2016
Topic:

Epidermal Sensor Systems for Sensing and Therapy

Abstract: The Epidermal sensor system is a class of skin-mounted, tattoo-like circuits and sensors capable of multiple functions, such as continuous vital sign monitoring, human-machine interface, and administering transdermal therapies.  Mechanical properties, such as thickness, softness, and mass density are well matched with the human epidermis and are therefore able to form a very intimate contact with human skin thereby providing unprecedented signal fidelity and comfort. These systems have successfully demonstrated many functions, including long-term, continuous, measurement of electroencephalogram (EEG), electrocardiogram (ECG), electromyogram (EMG), skin temperature, skin hydration, respiratory rate, blood pressure, and sweat analysis (e.g. glucose and lactate), as well as thermal treatment and transdermal drug delivery.  However, the high material and manufacturing cost have greatly hindered the widespread use of disposable epidermal sensors.  We therefore invented a cost and time effective, completely dry, benchtop “cut-and-paste” green manufacturing method to produce freeform and portable multiparametric epidermal sensor systems.
Speaker: Dr. Puling Wang
Email:
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Pulin Wang received his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and M.S. in Technology Commercialization from the University of Texas at Austin. He holds three patents, which are being commercialized by different start-ups with millions of dollars raised. He is the co-founder and CEO of Stretch Med, Inc., which is developing a biometric sensory platform based on the epidermal sensor technology.
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 25, 2016 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.
Presentation slides.

Not Just H20 -- Why Water Quality Is Important

April 2016
Topic:

Not just H2O -- why water quality is important

Abstract: Groundwater is an important source of water for Texas.  In 2010 more than 60% of the water used in the state came from the ground.  Groundwater resources are managed through public stakeholder participation.  The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) develops technical tools (e.g. groundwater availability models) for use by the citizens of Texas so that they can make science-based decision when developing groundwater policies.  A series of four educational videos will be shown at the talk to introduce the basics of aquifer science and how the results are used in developing groundwater policy.
Speaker: Dr. Ernest To
Email:
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Ernest To is an environmental engineer who has worked in the water resources field for 17 years. Ernest earned his BS and PhD degrees in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin, and his MS degree in Environmental Engineering from Cornell University. He specializes in computer modeling of pollutants in water bodies such as lakes, rivers and estuaries. He works for an environmental consulting company - Alan Plummer and Associates, Inc.- in Austin, TX.
Date & Time: Wednesday, April 27, 2016 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.
Beautiful and education videos on aquifers can be found at https://www.twdb.texas.gov/groundwater/video/index.asp

City of Austin Research and Development Projects Using Open Data, Big and Not so Big

March 2016
Topic:

City of Austin Research and Development Projects Using Open Data, Big and Not so Big

Abstract: The City of Austin is committed to open data in support of open government. To that end it has published several data sets on its open data portal. It has several initiatives with universities, industry and community members to use that data to address community challenges while enabling business development and community participation in improving city services, transportation, safety, the environment and workforce equity. This talk will be a review of some of the initiatives.
Speaker: Ted Lehr, Ph.D.
Email: ted.lehr@ieee.org
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Lehr is the IT Data Architect with the City of Austin and part-time lecturer in computer science at Texas State University.  He has over 20 years of experience in companies large and small as an engineer, researcher, executive and manager.  He is currently focused on assisting the City’s open data efforts as well as facilitating citizens, businesses and universities in the Austin area to add  value to that data.  He teaches software engineering at Texas State University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 23, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.
Note:
Slides and pictures from last month's meeting are available. Click on the Past Meetings tab and look for the Slides and tower building pictures under "For more information".

Discover Engineering: Encouraging School Students to Pursue Technology Careers

February 2016
Topic:

Discover Engineering: Encouraging School Students to Pursue Technology Careers

Abstract: Each year Discover Engineering ( https://www.centexeweek.org/ ) recruits engineers as role models from the local engineering community to encourage the children of Central Texas to pursue technology careers. Discover Engineering has been active in STEM outreach in the greater Austin area for over a decade. We look for a diverse group of engineers to visit classrooms and lead hands-on activities that demonstrate teamwork and logical processes while discussing their jobs and their enthusiasm for engineering.  John Purvis will tell us more about the Discover Engineering story, and lead us in a hands-on activity like the ones conducted during school visits.
Speaker: John Purvis III of IEEE Central Texas Division
Email: john.purvis@ieee.org
Speaker's Bio: John Purvis earned a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Houston in 1973 and a MS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin in 1982. He has worked at TRW, Texas Instruments, National Instruments, IBM and HostGator. He has also served on the Computer Sciences faculty at St. Edward's University.

John has been the author or co-author of over 60 articles, papers or technical presentations. His professional experience spans system engineering, programming, product management, college lecturer and Unix/Linux system management.

He has been a member of IEEE for 48 years and an active volunteer with the Central Texas Section since 2000. He served as IEEE Central Texas Section Chair for 2004-5, as Austin IEEE Computer Society Chapter Chair 2008-9 and is currently on the IEEE Region 5 Executive Committee.

John has also served nearly 10 years on the board of Discover Engineering and on the Board, and is currently Vice President, of the Capital Macintosh User's Group (CapMac).
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 24, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.
Slides.   Pictures of tower building -- tallest tower vs. strongest tower.
Local Event:
The BODYHACK Conference focused on everything from information security in wearable tech to the sense of touch being integrated into prosthetics.

Event: BODYHACKCON2016
Date: Feb19-21, 2016
Location: Austin Convention Center

Fun With Chemistry

January 2016
Topic:

Fun with Chemistry

Abstract: Fun with Chemistry presents a short lecture on the fundamental differences of chemical and physical changes through several unique demonstrations, including the explosions, thunderclouds, and other fun experiments. Dr. B will make chemistry come alive and foster interest in learning and discovery for students of all ages by participation in hands-on activities. Fun with Chemistry is a science outreach program provided by the Department of Chemistry at The University of Texas at Austin that was created with the hope of inspiring students to focus on science and pursue a career in a chemistry-related field.

slides
Speaker: Dr. Katherine Biberdorf of University of Texas at Austin, Chemistry Department
Email: kate.biberdorf@cm.utexas.edu
Speaker's Bio: Kate "Dr. B" Biberdorf is a Lecturer at The University of Texas at Austin. She is a general chemistry instructor and is particularly known for developing explosive demonstrations that excite undergraduate chemistry students. Outside of the classroom, Dr. B is often found at local Austin schools, promoting science education with her outreach program 'Fun with Chemistry'. Watch her demos live on the third Wednesday of every month on her monthly TV segment on We are Austin.
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 27, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Holiday Social and Networking Event

December 2015
Topic: Holiday Social and Networking Event
Abstract:
You are invited to share an evening with your colleagues and enjoy some holiday cheer.
CEDA, CTCN and SSC/CAS will provide the snacks and a drink.  Anything more is up to you.


Other Sites:

The CEDA website is: https://ewh.ieee.org/r5/central_texas/ceda/index.html

The CTCN website is: https://ewh.ieee.org/r5/central_texas/cn/

The SSC/CAS website is: https://ewh.ieee.org/r5/central_texas/cas_ssc/

Date & Time: Friday, 11-December-2015: 5:00pm to 7:00pm (two hours)
Location: Sherlock's Baker Street Pub and Grill, 9012 Research Blvd, Austin TX 78758. Southeast corner of Burnet Road and US 183/Research Blvd.


Cost: No admission charge.
Reservations: Please register so that we have know approximately how many are coming.  Last minute walk-ins and guests welcome.
For more information.

DC Power Distribution is Coming to a Building Near You -- Driven by LED Lighting

November 2015
Topic: DC Power Distribution is Coming Soon to a Building Near You -- Driven by LED Lighting
Abstract: We are living in a DC world. Most electrical and electronic devices used in the office and at home today, including LED lights, are powered by Direct Current. Solar electrical power is DC at the source. Therefore serious consideration should be given to the use of DC for electrical wiring in the future. Drew will discuss the theory and physical installation of AC and DC electrical distribution systems, and then explain why Class II DC wiring will be widely used for electrical distribution in buildings in the future. He will review specific examples of past and present electrical distribution systems for lighting. Then he will focus on LED lighting as the application compelling the use of Class II DC wiring for power distribution in buildings in the future.
slides
Speaker: Drew Vigen
Speaker's Bio: Drew Vigen's experience in electrical engineering ranges from designing high voltage infrastructure to electronic/embedded circuits. He has worked on projects for the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), Disneyland, and international high-rise hotels. Later he moved into electrical contracting and systems contracting. More recently, he has worked on developing electronics and software for building control and automation, remote video monitoring systems, and photosynthesis monitoring and control.

Drew founded ALGLO in 2013. The company is forging technologies disrupting Legacy systems for power distribution in buildings by pioneering Lighting as a System (LaaS). ALGLO is accelerating the shift to DC power systems in buildings.

Drew has been active in management of socially responsible projects at Rotary International and Kiwanis International for decades. He is an active environmentalist and considers himself a minimalist at heart.

Email: drew@alglo.com

Date & Time: Wednesday, November 18, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Cornerstone: Mindfulness For Life

October 2015
Topic: Cornerstone: Mindfulness for Life
Abstract: High stress, project deadlines, and never-ending demands are a way of life in our industry. Come learn how to practice mindfulness to increase productivity, reach success, and build relationships from two of Austin’s nationally trained mindfulness experts! Meditation creates neuroplasticity, which is your brain’s ability to change both structurally and functionally. Your brain can literally grow and improve cognition. The neural pathways and synapses increase and improve body awareness, emotional intelligence, behavioral awareness, and your mental capacity.
Speaker: Jenn Fairbank and Erika Marcoux of Conerstone: Mindfulness for Life
Speaker's Bio: Jenn Fairbank is the co-CEO and co-Founder of Cornerstone: Mindfulness for Life. She is a nationally trained mindfulness expert with a masters degree in social work and shares the ancient and scientific practice of mindfulness in her trainings and private practice in Austin, Texas. She studied in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Bristol, Vermont. She is the co-author of Companion for Life.

Erika Marcoux is the co-CEO and co-Founder of Cornerstone: Mindfulness for Life. She is a nationally trained mindfulness expert with a masters degree in psychology and shares the ancient and scientific practice of mindfulness in her trainings and private practice in Austin, Texas. She studied in the San Francisco Bay Area in California and Washington, D.C. She is the co-author of Companion for Life.
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 28, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.


Five Keys to an Engaged and Innovative Culture

September 2015
Topic: Five Keys to an Engaged and Innovative Culture
Abstract: This presentation provides individuals and organizations five keys for creating and growing engaged and innovative cultures that are cutting-edge, while increasing retention, productivity, employee and customer loyalty, and profitability. A strong purpose, vision, and the inclusion of all stakeholders is vital to accomplish these goals. Attendees will learn practical ways for staying ahead of the latest industry trends, and for creating a caring environment that provdes access to an organization's most important resources -- the imaginations, creativity and passion of its employees and other stakeholders.
Speaker: Carrie Vanston of Technology Futures, Inc.
Speaker's Bio: Carrie Vanston is VP of Communications and Culture Coach at Technology Futures, Inc. and its MiniTrends Project. She excels at helping clients create and grow innovative cultures that succeed and thrive by staying on the cutting edge of industry trends with maximum engagement by all stakeholders. She is a consummate connector who enjoys bringing like-minded people together to share, learn, and grow. She is developer of "Five Keys to an Engaged and Innovative Culture" and Co-Author of the award-winning book MINITRENDS: How Innovators & Entrepreneurs Discover & Profit From Business & Technology Trends. Recent articles by Carrie have appeared in Texas CEO Magazine and the Austin Business Journal.
Date & Time: Wednesday, September 23, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Enhancing Web-based Customer Support via Cognitive Computing Techniques

August 2015
Topic: Enhancing Web-based Customer Support via Cognitive Computing Techniques
Abstract: Major players such as IBM Watson are marketing the technology of the future. This talk will investigate and describe the good, bad and ugly of incorporating machine learning into businesses' customer experience. Using my own experience with a start-up company focused on exploiting machine learning to enhance customer service, and drawing on other leading thoughts in the industry, I will discuss what can really be expected at this point in time and what can we look forward to in the future.
Speaker: Ryan Lund of Cerebri, Inc
Speaker's Bio: Ryan Lund is the CEO of Cerebri, focusing on machine learning products and service to enhance consumer experience, while increasing revenue and decreasing costs of the businesses they serve. Previously an Implementation Director at one of the premier EMR Software companies in the United States, Ryan oversaw software development and implementations across the United States.
Date & Time: Wednesday, August 26, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Bridges - They're Really Very Safe

July 2015
Topic: Bridges - They're Really Very Safe
Abstract: James will show photographs of the several different bridge styles in Texas, along with some explanation on them. Then, he will explain what the terms "Functionally Obsolete" and "Structurally Deficient" really mean and why our bridges are not as bad as has been commonly reported. He will also discuss some recent bridge related incidents with the explanation of what happened and why the incident was actually very unusual. Overall, bridges in Texas and the US are very safe in spite of the media hype.
Speaker: James Mercier of IEEE (PI)^2 Society, Austin
Speaker's Bio: James J. Mercier, P.E. is retired from the Texas Department of Transportation where his jobs have included Highway Lighting Engineer, Traffic Signal Engineer, and more recently a Hydraulics Engineer specializing in open channels and storm drains. James graduated from the IBEW electrical apprenticeship program in 1979 as a Journeyman Electrician. Afterwards, he returned to college to graduate from the University of Cincinnati with a BS in Civil Engineering (1986). James is a licensed Professional Engineer in Texas and five other states, and a Texas licensed Master Electrician.James joined IEEE and ASCE as a student member at the University of Cincinnati, and has remained active in both. He was the Chair of the Austin Chapter of the PES, now (PI)^2, for 2001 and 2002. Three months ago, the (PI)^2 Vice-Chair/Chair Elect moved to Colorado, so James stepped in to fill that vacancy.
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 22, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Engineering and Public Policy - A Career Perspective

June 2015
Topic: Engineering and Public Policy - A Career Perspective
Abstract: Many engineers consider public policy a peripheral concern in their careers. The Internet and the rapid adoption of new technology has placed the need for a common understanding between the engineering and policy communities in the forefront. In this presentation, the speaker will trace his engineering career over 50 years in the context of public policy. He will also outline some of the issues and opportunities that today's engineers might consider for their own career path.
Speaker: Len Hause of MashBrain LLC
Speaker's Bio: Len Hause is a Senior Technology Advisor for the U.S. Department of State in the Office of the Coordinator for Cyber Issues. He is also president of MashBrain LLC where he consults on transformational strategies that leverage Internet technology and marketing. He was a Fellow of the Technical Staff, Associate of the Science Advisory Board, Internetologist, and Senior Marketing Director at Motorola where he spent more than 30 years in global management roles and as an individual contributor. He has been recognized as a pioneer in the adoption of Internet protocols and culture within the Enterprise for innovation, collaboration and organizational learning. He was an IEEE Science and Diplomacy Fellow, and is a member of the Association for Computing Machinery, The Recording Academy and has served on many industry, educational, corporate, and government advisory boards and consortiums. Len holds U.S. Patents in telecom and a BS degree in Electrical Engineering from Lehigh University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 24, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Economic, Social, and Political Impact of Low Oil Prices

May 2015
Topic: Economic, Social, and Political Impact of Low Oil Prices
Abstract: The presentation will offer a perspective on recent happenings in the oil industry and interrelated economy and will discuss some of the main perturbations and changes, including substantial changes in the domestic retail price of gasoline. Needless to say, the oil industry is an important and influential player in our overall economy, and changes have both positive and negative impacts on most all human activity. We will attempt to recognize some of the greater social and political impacts, and particularly to identify the principal causes of the recent period of much reduced prices in gasoline motor fuel. The Speaker brings some useful experience with the exploration, drilling and production aspects of the oil industry; and although he has opinions, he makes no claim to be a notable authority on the oil economy. The discussion includes some special focus on technological advancements that have played a major roll in recent improvements in oil production. Opinions are given on effects related to the economy.

Round Table Discussion: The intent of this presentation is to first offer the foregoing introductory discussion of the subject, and then the Speaker will host a general group discussion by the audience for the remaining available time. All experiences and opinions are welcome, and this is hoped to be a mutual learning experience for all.

slides
Speaker: Darrell Word of D. R. Word Associates
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Word received BSEE, MSEE, and PhD degrees from The University of Texas at Austin. He is a Registered Professional Engineer in Texas. He worked at the UT-Electrical Engineering Research Laboratory (EERL) and the Electrical Geophysics Research Laboratory (EGRL) for 10 years, doing research in low frequency EM fields associated with the Earth System and on instrumentation and methodologies for various EM applications such as submarine detection, communications, and electrical geophysics. He also has served as an adjunct professor in the UT- ECE Department from time to time. In 1970, he was a partner and co-founder of Geotronics Corporation of Austin, providing electrical geophysics instrumentation and methodologies and exploration services for oil and mining companies. Since 1990, Dr. Word has operated a private consulting firm, D. R. Word Associates, working in a wide range of fields, including instrumentation, signal processing, electromechanical and control systems, communication and telemetry, radio navigation, EM related applications, electrical geophysics, etc.; and he is occasionally involved in certain aspects of AC power engineering. With strengths in math and physics, his consulting work tends to focus on problems requiring extended theoretical analysis and fundamental principles.
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 27, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

High Resolution Audio

April 2015
Topic: High Resolution Audio
Abstract: The goal of High Resolution Audio is to allow the listener to hear exactly what the artist has been hearing in the studio while creating music. The wide availability of low cost mass storage and high Internet bandwidth allows consumers to access music recordings using High Resolution Audio technology. This presentation will discuss how High Resolution Audio recordings differ from available CD and MP3 recordings, what equipment is required for proper playback of High Resolution Audio recordings, and how the quality requirements affect the design of players, D/A converters, amplifiers, headphones and speakers. slides
Speaker: Sergio Liberman
Speaker's Bio: Sergio Liberman has more than 29 years of experience in the semiconductor industry in design and architecture of over 22 chips including DSP processors, digital-to-analog converters, Class-D audio amplifiers and SoC application processors. These devices have been used in digital audio systems for consumer, professional, and automotive applications. Sergio holds two patents in high-performance audio digital-to-analog converter design, and has authored over 15 technical publications. Sergio holds a B.Sc. EE from Tel-Aviv University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, April 22, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Factom: Using the Bitcoin Blockchain to Enable Internet of Things, and Ensure Privacy and Security

March 2015
Topic: Factom: Using the Bitcoin Blockchain to Enable Internet of Things, and Ensure Privacy and Security
Abstract: The Factom protocol creates a general purpose data layer over Bitcoin. The Bitcoin Bllockchain is the most secure distributed and ordered ledger in the world. Factom uses this ledger to allow the creation of lists, and allows the adding of data to these lists. This architecture allows the building of state for the Internet of things to build more secure, more private, yet more powerful smart devices. This talk will explain how these objectives can be met with Factom.
Speaker: Paul Snow of Factom.org
Speaker's Bio: Paul Snow is the chair of the Texas Bitcoin Conference, and the technical founder of Factom, a data layer for the Bitcoin blockchain. He has been a developer for 30+ years. He designed and implemented the Decision Table based Rules Engine used by Texas to evaluate eligibility for all Health and Human Resource Assistence programs (Medicare, Medicade, TANF, SNAP, etc.). He also wrote the first Postscript clone to ship in a comercial product. Paul lives in Austin Texas, and is active in the technical community.
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 25, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Challenges and Opportunities in Internet of Everything (IoE)

February 2015
Topic: Challenges and Opportunities in Internet of Everything (IoE)
Abstract: Smart IoT solutions and services, such as for smart connected homes and buildings, are proliferating because of recent advances in wireless, miniaturization technology, improvement in processing power, standards and market readiness. This presentation will examine the early adoption of IoT and examine how IoT has advanced, empowered by parallel advancements in technology and standards for sensing, gateway and services. Forecasts project connecting 50 Billions smart things by 2020, improving business efficiency and quality of life. Attendees will also learn about critical considerations in building IoT product and system solutions leveraging a smart software IoT platform approach to handle security, event-filtering, messaging protocols, cloud server, and sensor fusion frameworks. The IoT roadmap calls for a collaborative intelligent approach that will impact our connected life and businesses. IoT application requirements for some of the future opportunities in smart homes and buildings will be explored with support from some use-cases.
Speaker: Dr. Kwok Wu, Freescale Semiconductor
Speaker's Bio: Kwok Wu, PhD is Head of Embedded Software and Systems Solutions, Freescale Semiconductor. Dr. Kwok Wu, an award-winning industry veteran and sought after speaker, has been awarded 2012 Innovator of the Year by ECD (Embedded Computing Design Magazine) for his platform approach to Wireless Smart IOT Gateways.Kwok is a recent co-author of a book on the future of IoT (Collaborative Internet of Things for Future Smart Connected Life and Business), exploring creative examples and opportunities in a simplified and visionary approach. In addition, Kwok was awarded the 2011 Innovative Networking Product Award, from the Broadband World Forum for the Secured Broadband Multi-Service Gateway. He was also a recipient of the 2012 Best Networking and Communication Product Award for Smart Metering at the Australia and New Zealand Summit. He has held various executive management positions at ATT Bell Laboratories, Lucent Technology, Actel, AMD, Lattice and Freescale Semiconductor. Kwok is member of IEEE Computer Society and is the Treasurer for the Austin Chapter of the IEEE Communications Society. He holds a PhD, EECS (Computer Engineering) from the University of Texas at Austin.
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 25, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Breaking barriers in manufacturing with low cost 3D printing

January 2015
Topic: Breaking barriers in manufacturing with low cost 3D printing
Abstract: In the last few years the lowering cost and increasing availability of 3D printing technologies has now given companies the leverage to faster prototyping and unique manufacturing capabilities. This is allowing companies to save time and money, strengthen their market position as well as enter new markets. We will discuss the landscape overview of 3D printing technologies for business, how 3D printing is changing business practices and challenges faced during these transitional times.
Speaker: Matt Fiedler
Speaker's Bio: Matthew earned his Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University of Nebraska in Manufacturing Engineering and Biomechanics. He spent six years with the Neuroscience Laboratory at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston Texas as a Biomedical Engineer. Matthew's dedicated interest in research and development with 3D printing is breaking new ground in science and industries from bronze casting to prosthetics.
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 28, 2015 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

IEEE CTCN and CEDA Holiday Social and Networking Event

December 2014
Topic: IEEE CTCN and CEDA Holiday Social and Networking Event
Abstract: You are invited to share an evening with your fellow consultants and enjoy some holiday cheer. CTCN and CEDA will provide the snacks. You buy your favorite beverages.
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 17, 2014 (Please note this special meeting is earlier due to Christmas): Networking and Socializing from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Location: Sherlock's Baker St. Pub and Grill, 9012 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78758
Directions: Southeast corner of Burnet Road and US-183/Research Blvd.
Cost: None/cash bar
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

The Science and Foundation of Personal Identity using Biometrics and Social Network Analysis

November 2014
Topic: The Science and Foundation of Personal Identity using Biometrics and Social Network Analysis
Abstract: We deal with identity on a daily basis without thinking about it. We show our ID cards; we verify friends through friends-of-friends; we use our personal identification numbers and we even occasionally talk to complete strangers. But what does it mean to really identify a person? How do you truly know a person is who they say they are? This talk will examine the foundations of identity through the use of simple tokens, biometrics, social connections, and many other methods, as well as examine the myriad techniques used to mask identity.
Speaker: Dr. Alex Kilpatrick
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Alex Kilpatrick holds a PhD in Artificial Intelligence from the Air Force Institute of Technology. He is currently a co-founder and CTO of BeehiveID, focusing on the use of social network analysis to prevent fraud online. He has been involved in biometrics for over a decade, serving as the chief architect for both the Afghan and Iraqi national biometric databases, as well as deploying to the middle east over a dozen times in support of various biometric programs. He also managed the Air Force basic research program in Computer Science for the Air Force Office of Scientific Research and has performed a variety of research activities for Darpa and the intelligence community.
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 19, 2014 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

There was no CTCN meeting in October 2014

October 2014

Workshop

September 2014

{C}

 

 

Saturday, September 13, 2014

 

7700 West Parmer Lane, Austin, TX

 

 

Co-hosted by CTCN and AICN (Alliance of IEEE Consultants' Networks)

 

 

 

Co-sponsored by CAS/SSC, CEDA, COMSOC/SP, EdSoc, TMC, and WIE

 

Today's most successful engineers likely will perform many and varied roles during the course of a career. This full day conference addresses the challenges we all face staying ready to serve today's marketplace. Attend in order to hone your personal interaction skills, stay abreast of emerging technical markets, and learn from the experience of speakers who have been successful employees, consultants, and entrepreneurs in the course of their working lives. Whether you are a student, new graduate, or seasoned professional, attend this workshop and sharpen the talents you need to enjoy a flexible, fulfilling, lifelong, career. During this full-day workshop six nationally recognized speakers will share experiences and knowledge gained during their individual, wide-ranging, careers.

 

 

Topics and Speakers:

 

Bob Krause, IEEE-USA AICN Coordinating Committee (AICN)

"How to Stimulate and Hone Your Networking Skills"

 

William R. Kassebaum P.E., IEEE-USA AICN Coordinating Committee

 

 

"Start-up Tactics"

 

 

Gary Blank, IEEE-USA President

"From Employee to Consultant, How Can I Do It?"

 

David Smith, CEO of Strategic Pathways, President of Social Care

"A Sea of Changing Waters - HealthCare Technology - The Perfect Storm"

 

Sharon Drew Morgen, Visionary, Author, Consultant

"Selling Doesn't Cause Buying"

 

Leslie Martinich, Founder and Principal Consultant at Competitive Focus

"Focus Your Career"

 

 

 

The 2014 CTCN workshop presentations can be downloaded here.

 
For more information and to register visit https://meetings.vtools.ieee.org/m/27533.
 

                     

3D Memory Technologies

August 2014
Topic: 3D Memory Technologies
Abstract: As scaled memory ICs become increasingly challenging, the possibility of increasing bit density by moving into 3D becomes an attractive alternative. Both scaled and 3D technologies present difficulties. Three 3D technologies are at the forefront. (1) The highest volume memory product today is the NAND flash and it has been one of the first to appear in 3D. Both versions of the 3D NAND flash, vertical channel and vertical gate, will be discussed. (2) Resistance RAMs have been investigated for several years and have appeared in low level production. These ReRAMs offer a highest density 3D memory when stacked in 3D cross-point arrays. The three types of ReRAMs - metal oxide, conductive bridge, and phase change - will be discussed along with the three types of 3D cross-point array configurations - Unipolar, Bipolar and Complementary. (3) Stacked DRAMs and logic chips connected with silicon vias already exist as a packaging technology and are poised to become a 3D chip technology. This will involve a revolution in chip design and design tools.
Speaker: Dr. Betty Prince
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Betty Prince is CEO of Memory Strategies International. She has worked with Texas Instruments, N.V. Philips, Motorola, R.C.A and Fairchild. She is author of 6 books on semiconductor memories including "Vertical 3D Memory Technologies", September 2014, (Wiley). She is a Senior Life Member of the IEEE and was an IEEE SSCS Distinguished Lecturer from 2005-2011. She has served on several IEEE conference committees and on the Technical Advisory Board of IEEE Spectrum magazine. She has been active in the JEDEC and IEC memory standards committees and was founder of the JEDEC JC-16 Interface Standards Committee. She has served on the Technical Advisory Boards of several memory companies and was a Director of Mosaid Technologies for 10 years. She holds patents in the memory, processor and interface areas. She has a B.S. and M.S. in physics and math from the U. of New Mexico and the U. of California, an M.B.A. and a Ph.D. from the University of Texas with doctoral dissertation on fractal modeling.
Date & Time: Wednesday, August 27, 2014 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Unmanned Vehicle Systems

July 2014
Topic: Unmanned Vehicle Systems
Abstract: Karen Ulferts, president of the Lone Star Chapter of the Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), will present an overview of the AUVSI and the issues of drones and other unmanned systems relevant to Texas. Karen will provide examples of their usage and both non-profit and for-profit business ventures. slides
Speaker: Karen Ulfert
Speaker's Bio: Karen Ulferts has been involved with the Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) since joining the Lone Star Chapter as Secretary in 2007 and is now the Chapter President. AUVSI (AUVSI.org) is an international organization of unmanned systems enthusiasts and activists from the private, commercial, and government sectors. Karen's primary organization role is that of quality assurance representative (QAR) specializing in defense and military software quality standards, ISO 9001:2008, IEEE 12207, and commercial (IBM, CMMI) systems and software quality requirements. She has a bachelors and masters degree of science in Industrial Engineering from the University of Tennessee and has published various papers on commercial best practices for software process improvement including quality assurance. Karen recently formed an LLC "A Drone of Her Own" to focus upon the usage of robotics and unmanned systems from a woman's perspective.
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 23, 2014 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

EMC, EMI, What, Why and Which Engineering Rules to Apply

June 2014
Topic: EMC, EMI, What, Why and Which Engineering Rules to Apply
Abstract: The presentation will cover Electromagnetic Interference from introduction through product verification with emphases on engineering design rules. Hence no matter what level of EMC/EMI expertize you have, you should find it of interest. Please note: This subject is not covered in many colleges, invite an engineering student or/or colleague.
Speaker: Richard F. Gillette
Speaker's Bio: Mr. Gillette holds a BSEE from the Illinois Institute of Technology, an MBA from Loyola University Chicago and is an Illinois, Licensed Professional Engineer. He worked as a technician at a number of companies and as an engineer at Beltone Electronics and Knight Kit while earning his degree. He started at Hallicrafters as an engineer designing ECM receivers. During the next 30 years he held many positions in engineering, research, marketing and program management, including VP of Engineering. He has hands on experience designing many ECM systems, all requiring full military environmental qualification including MIL-STD-461, the "Requirements for the Control of Electromagnetic Interference Characteristics of Subsystems and Equipments". Richard retired from Northrop Grumman nee Hallicrafters and became an independent consultant. His consulting projects include: Converting a bandwidth limited go-no go test set to measure performance of an pulsed IR jammer, solving problems in military qualification of a LASER PPLN crystal, designing a sapphire window heater to withstand 60,000 v/m without heater failure or the heater leads transmitting the RF power to the circuitry behind the window and engineering a minimal mod to allow an existing medical product to pass EURO EMI qualification. He is an IEEE life senior member, a charter member and treasurer of the IEEE Houston Consultants Network, a Director Emeritus and past Chair of the IEEE Chicago/Rockford Consultants Network, an Old Crow and holds Amateur Radio License W9PE. He also serves as Executive Director of the Save Community College Organization Incorporated, a 501 © 3 educational charity.
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 25, 2014 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Out-Smart the Competition with These Patent Research Tips

May 2014
Topic: Out-Smart the Competition with These Patent Research Tips
Abstract: Researching patents is an important step in evaluating your position in a marketplace and establishing your long-term strategy. You can learn where competitors are spending their R&D money, which new technologies are headed for the marketplace and discover business opportunities or threats. This discussion will cover these topics as well as how to use targeted alerts to keep up with your competitor's activities in real-time. slides
Speaker: Steve Pearson
Speaker's Bio: Steve is the founder of the firm The Pearson Strategy Group, LLC that provides services in Competitive Intelligence, Innovation Support, and Strategic Development to the technology, power, consumer, and transportation industries. Steve is an electrical engineer but has worked in various engineering roles including semiconductor manufacturing, machining and consulting. He has served aboard a Navy submarine as a nuclear reactor operator. Steve is Chairman for the Austin chapter of the IEEE's Power and Energy Society.
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 21, 2014 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Human Factors and Ergonomics

April 2014
Topic: Human Factors and Ergonomics
Abstract: Dr. Kolar's undergraduate work in mechanical engineering and Ph.D. in Industrial Psychology from the Illinois Institute of Technology gave him the ability to understand how things work, and how people interact with those things. Clever designs do not equate to usable products. We have all bumped our heads into "pull to open" doors expecting them to be "push to open" doors. Bumping one's head is a minor embarrassment. However, when ego driven designers choose to use introspection, rather than consult a human factors professional, things can go very wrong very quickly. Not understanding the behavioral characteristics of the consumer audience can result in death and destruction. Tonight's presentation will show many examples of how and why Human Factors is so important to our safety and sanity.
Speaker: Dan E. Kolar, Ph.D. CHFP, Manufacturing Procedures Analyst and Consultant
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Kolar started with IBM in Chicago as a Customer Engineer, maintaining electro-mechanical banking machines. After completing his PhD. he worked in Austin's Product Test Department when the technology was changing from Mag Card typewriters to electronic word processors. He conducted human factors usability tests by hiring potential users of the products and watching how they interacted with the machines. In the Product Development Laboratory responsibilities included testing, evaluating and creating new procedures to overcome usability problems. Two human factors based procedures resulted in a $30 M cost avoidance. He is the author of several IBM Technical Reports, user documentation and "How to Love Your Computer without Cursing the Cursor."
Date & Time: Wednesday, April 23, 2014 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Photovoltaic System Design and Market Fundamentals

March 2014
Topic: Photovoltaic System Design and Market Fundamentals
Abstract: While PV (Photovoltaic) system installations are still a small percentage of overall power production, growth in the market has been tremendous over the last 5 years. This talk will cover some of the history of PV, market influences, and then dive into the fundamentals of PV system design, component selection, and impacts on system performance. In addition, financial models for both residential and commercial projects will be discussed.
Speaker: D.J. Rosebaugh
Speaker's Bio: D.J. is a 20 year veteran of Motorola and Freescale Semiconductor, primarily holding roles in marketing, strategy, portfolio planning and product management. In 2009, D.J. was driven by a desire to bring more meaning to his career and decided to transition into the renewable energy industry and became the Director of Training for ImagineSolar, a local school dedicated to training installers, sales professionals and engineers the knowledge and skills needed in the PV industry. Seeing strong growth opportunities in 2012, D.J. began working with Lighthouse Solar developing national business development strategies and leading their commercial and utility scale solar PV sales efforts.
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 26, 2014 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Solutions for Scale-out Communications-Centric Data Center Processing

February 2014
Topic: Solutions for Scale-out Communications-Centric Data Center Processing
Abstract: Communications systems look to take advantage of data center technologies such as virtualization, aggregation and Linux user space data path processing to solve demanding networking and security processing problems. Optimal solutions leverage multicore processing, integrated acceleration and networking interfaces. Freescale QorIQ processors provide leading performance, performance density, and cost and power savings while providing an Open Linux based user-space programming environment for networking and security application development. This presentation will discuss the QorIQ data path acceleration architecture and outline its advantages versus competitive solutions.
Speaker: Sam Fuller
Speaker's Bio: Sam Fuller is the Head of System Solutions for the Digital Networking Group at Freescale Semiconductor. Mr. Fuller has over 20 years of executive leadership experience in computer architecture, SoC architecture, embedded systems and semiconductor marketing and applications, and has lead innovative development efforts in SIMD processing, fabric interconnects and symmetric multicore processing. Mr. Fuller holds BSEE and MSEE degrees from Brigham Young University and an MBA degree from the University of Texas at Austin.
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 26, 2014 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

It's All Politics: Why Community Engagement is Critical to Professional Development

January 2014
Topic: It's All Politics: Why Community Engagement is Critical to Professional Development
Abstract: For a lot of people, politics calls to mind a lot of unpleasant things: politicians full of hot air, negative campaigning, and even the specter of corruption. It is no surprise that when surveyed, substantial numbers of Americans want nothing to do with politics, and often do not even want to hear or learn about it. But is it truly possible to live a completely apolitical life? And even if it was, would it be desirable? In an age where over 90% of job opportunities are never publicly advertised and technology and economic changes have blurred the lines between the personal and the professional, politics permeates every aspect of our careers. Learn how politics and community engagement are not as mysterious or unfamiliar as you may think, and why being involved is critical to your professional development as a technology professional.
Speaker: Ramey Ko
Speaker's Bio: Ramey Ko is a partner with the immigration and business law firm of Jung Ko, PLLC, and a Democratic candidate for Travis County Treasurer. He previously practiced housing and domestic violence law with Texas RioGrande Legal Aid and the Texas Advocacy Project. In January 2010, Ramey was appointed the first Asian American judge in Travis County and served as an Associate Municipal Judge through 2013. Ramey also teaches as a Lecturer in Asian American Studies at the University of Texas, focusing on Asian Americans and the law. Since September 2010, Ramey has served on the President's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, which advises the Obama Administration and federal agencies on how to better serve the AAPI community. He currently serves on the Austin Public Safety Commission, which oversees the budgets and policies of police, fire, and emergency medical services. He is a Board Member of the Austin Asian American Resource Center, Asian Pacific Americans for Progress, the Greater Austin Asian Chamber of Commerce, GlobalAustin, and a delegate of Local 1624 of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees on the Central Labor Council. Ramey cofounded the Capital Area Asian American Democrats in April 2007, serving as president from April 2007 to June 2012 and Vice President since June 2012. Ramey graduated from Yale University in 2002 with a degree in history and with honors from the University of Chicago Law School in 2006. He loves cooking, karaoke, and trivia.
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 22, 2014 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
For more information.

Holiday Social and Networking Event

December 2013
Topic: Holiday Social and Networking Event
Abstract: You are invited to share an evening with your fellow consultants and enjoy some holiday cheer. CTCN will provide the snacks. You buy your favourite beverages.
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 11, 2013 (Please note this special meeting is earlier due to Christmas): Networking and Socializing from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Location: Sherlock's Baker St. Pub and Grill, 9012 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78758
Directions: Southeast corner of Burnet Road and US-183/Research Blvd.
Cost: None/cash bar
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

What's Secured and What's Not with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) to the enterprise?

November 2013
Topic: What's Secured and What's Not with Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) to the enterprise?
Abstract: BYOD is now entrenched in many enterprises, globally. It enhances productivity, employee stimulation, inspiration and innovation, but also brings mobile device management (MDM) complexities and security threats to the enterprise. This is a quick overview of enterprise mobile security around the BYOD at the current state of the market covering existing and declining mobile platforms. slides
Speaker: Dan Sharoni
Speaker's Bio: Mr. Dan Sharoni is a strategic architect and subject matter expert (SME) in the emerging enterprise mobility ecosystem. He focuses on aligning growing enterprise analytics, productivity and security requirements with transformative smart mobile devices, such as iPhone and iPad. Mr. Sharoni was the Emerging Enterprise Mobility Lead at Accenture Technology Labs as an executive, technology innovator and project manager. He has over fifteen years of experience in emerging mobility, wireless network, Web 2.0, multimedia and collaboration. Dan is a practitioner of the complete Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), as well as an Agile practitioner as a Certified Scrum Master (SCM). He has brought wide and deep architectural knowledge in leading enterprises including Accenture, Hewlett Packard and Adobe. He is passionate about distributed computerized music with research work presented at SIGGRAPH and JAVAONE. Mr. Sharoni holds two US Patents. Currently Dan is at the McCombs Graduate School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin, graduating as M.Sc. in Technology Commercialization. Dan holds a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the Technion - Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa, Israel.
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 20, 2013 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Modern Health Talk and The Future of Health Care

October 2013
Topic: Modern Health Talk and The Future of Health Care
Abstract: After briefly describing Modern Health Talk, the rest of this presentation follows a new white paper, Moore's Law and The FUTURE of Healthcare and trends such as: 1. The aging population and its impact on rising health care costs and pending doctor shortage; 2. New interest in Universal Design principles for homes and communities (also boomer related); 3. Healthcare Robots and all sorts of enabling technologies that must enable ways to fill that gap; 4. Healthcare could be a bigger driver of automation and M2M than smart homes; 5. Learning (e.g. NEST thermostat) needs more awareness, like from a patch sensing skin temperature; 6. Genetic research may soon conquer most inherited diseases while new therapies repair cell damage before it accumulates; 7. DNA sequencing, sensor monitoring, and shared medical records data join with phenotype to explode the Big Data analytics problem; 8. Medicine becomes Personalized and Personal (engaged patients); 9. The return of House Calls, but by a nurse or aid with video conference to doctor, backed up by Watson; 10. Growing awareness of the relationship of stress reduction and good sleep to health and work and sports performance; 11. Growing understanding of neuro-sensory interfaces and the mind-computer interface; 12. The convergence of Science and Technology (INFO + BIO + NANO + NEURO); 13. Obamacare can bend the cost curve but not enough to stave off the boomer impact, so more reforms are needed; 14. The stalled and polarized political system is unable to adapt policy and regulations fast enough to keep up, and this will only worsen with accelerating tech innovation. slides
Speaker: Wayne Caswell, Founder and Senior Editor, Modern Health Talk
Speaker's Bio: Wayne Caswell is known for introducing IBM to the Connected Home market. He retired after 30 years when the company got out of consumer markets and established CAZITech Consulting, helped define Wireless and Home Gateway standards, volunteered with the FCC Consumer Advisory Committee, co-founded a nonprofit consumer advocacy to lobby the Texas legislature and enact new consumer protection laws, and started Modern Health Talk (https://mHealthTalk.com).
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 23, 2013 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Redefining Datacenter Efficiency

September 2013
Topic: Redefining Datacenter Efficiency
Abstract: Discuss how a new wave of micro-servers is starting to change traditional data center architectures, and how Calxeda ARM based servers are architected to accelerate this change.
Speaker: David Borland, Co-founder and VP of Hardware Engineering, Calxeda
Speaker's Bio: David Borland has served in roles of Vice President and Director of Engineering at leading semiconductor companies such as Intel, AMD and Marvell and brings low power SoC architecture, design and high volume manufacturing leadership to Calxeda. Mr. Borland delivered innovative market leading Cellular and Application Processors to high volume mobile applications building a "ground up" business for Intel that was acquired by Marvell. Upon joining Intel in 1999, he led the ADI/Intel Joint Development that delivered a new DSP Core architecture and implementation with industry leading power/performance and effective C programming that is used by Analog Devices, Intel, Marvell and MediaTek. Mr. Borland was with AMD for 14 years where he was the Product Line Manager of Cordless Telephones. He began his engineering career at AMD as a product and design engineer on single chip modems after earning a BSEE in 1984.
Date & Time: Wednesday, September 25, 2013 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Consultants Workshop: Manage Your Career - Don't Get Blindsided by Reality

August 2013

August 2013 Consultants Workshop

Manage Your Career - Don't Get Blindsided by Reality - August 28, 2013, 1:00pm -6pm

Hosted by CTCN and Co-Sponsored by CAS, SSCS, CEDA, TMC, WIE, CS/SPS

This is not your grandfather's job market where one could work and retire from one company after 40 years. Your father has probably not fared that well either. The fast pace of technology change and productivity improvements, in an increasingly competitive market, have forced companies to change their strategy, frequently upgrade and improve their products or services, and adjust their workforce.

Downsizing, outsourcing, automation, financial pressures, short-term demands, and failed strategy all contribute challenges to your career and your ultimate retirement goal. How can one prepare for, react to, and manage this situation? Smart, proactive career planning, management, and transition may be the answer. The workshop objective is to increase your awareness of unintended consequences of change, to expect the unexpected, and to motivate you to proactively execute your career goals.

Agenda

1:00 - 1:20 Registration and Networking
1:20 - 1:30 Co-Sponsor Chapter Remarks: Fawzi Behmann, Leslie Martinich, Zhuo Li
1:30 - 1:35 Opening Welcome: Bill Martino
1:35 - 2:25 "Vision on Technology and Future Jobs," David Smith, CEO, HBMG slides
2:25 - 3:15 "Defining Career Success - Beyond Skills and Experience," Tommy Chiodo, M.Ed., LPC, Career Counselor slides
3:15 - 4:05 "Empowered Productivity: Winning the War Against Info Overload," Maura Thomas, President, RegainYourTime.com
4:05 - 4:20 Break for Networking and Refreshments (Snacks and Drinks)
4:20 - 5:10 "Build Your Brand," David Hughen, Principal, AustinHR.com
5:10 - 6:00 "Repurpose Your Career - 5 Steps to Your Next Career Pivot," Marc Miller, Career Designer slides

Location

Building A, Auditorium, Business Park at 7700 W. Parmer Lane, Austin, TX 78729 Map

Registration

For Workshop Details, to Register and to Pay, go to IEEE vTools here.

The Cost (If Paid Via vTools by 8/23/13): Advance Registration: $20 IEEE Members; $25 Non-Members.

IEEE Life Members and Student Members can attend for free, but still need to register.

After 8/23, Walk-In Onsite Registration: $30 IEEE Members; $35 Non-Members. Payment onsite is with Cash or Check to "IEEE-CTS" only. No Credit Cards Please!

Future Internet - The Transformation Continues

July 2013
Topic: Future Internet - The Transformation Continues
Abstract: The Internet could be the most powerful transformation engine that the World has ever known. What lessons can we learn from previous technology and social transformations that might apply to future Internet strategies? What fundamental principles can be applied across sectors and what opportunities can be exposed thru a maturity model based approach? This session will briefly review case studies and discuss a methodology using the Smart Grid and the energy sector as an example. slides
Speaker: Len Hause, President, MashBrain
Speaker's Bio: Len Hause is President of MashBrain LLC where he consults on transformational strategies that leverage Internet technology and marketing. He was a Fellow of the Technical Staff, Associate of the Science Advisory Board, Internetologist, and Senior Marketing Director at Motorola where he spent more than 30 years in global management roles and as an individual contributor. He has been recognized as a pioneer in the adoption of Internet protocols and culture within the Enterprise for innovation, collaboration, and organizational learning. He was recently selected as an IEEE-USA Engineering and Diplomacy (US State Department) Fellow for 2013-2014. Len holds US Patents in telecom and a BS degree in Electrical Engineering from Lehigh University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 24, 2013 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

It's a Mad, Mad, Mad World of Mobile Marketing

June 2013
Topic: It's a Mad, Mad, Mad World of Mobile Marketing
Abstract: NEWS FLASH !! Mobile Marketing is taking over the world of Marketing. This interactive, case-driven session, is an attempt to understand what factors make mobile marketing so special, and whether / how it is different from traditional marketing. Considering that everyone is now a mobile marketer, what does it really mean to have a successful "Mobile Marketing Campaign"? What are the hidden challenges and naked opportunities? And how can one drive additional business or improve profitability using the right Mobile Marketing techniques. Get to this session to find out whether this mad, muddled world of Mobile Marketing is indeed the solution to effective marketing or just Snake Oil. slides
Speaker: C. K. Kumar
Speaker's Bio: C. K. Kumar is a consummate Marketing and Strategy professional who has spent the past 16 years in several technology and marketing roles in start-ups and large companies including AMD and Synopsys. His diverse work experience includes engineering roles in semiconductor and marketing / strategy roles in technology. He is currently helping a couple of local startups on their marketing and business strategies. He has an MS in Computer Engineering from UT / University of Toledo and an MBA from Stern School of Business at NYU.
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 26, 2013 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

HALT and HASS: A New Paradigm for Rapid Reliability Development

May 2013
Topic: HALT and HASS: A New Paradigm for Rapid Reliability Development
Abstract: This brief overview will discuss the basic methods of Highly Accelerated Life Testing (HALT) which are run during the design phase of a program to find design weaknesses and eliminate them, and how Highly Accelerated Stress Screens (HASS) are developed from HALT. Even though the methods of HALT and HASS have existed for over 20 years, they are one of the most misunderstood methodologies in engineering. HALT and HASS are a fundamental paradigm shift in the development of reliable electronics hardware in that they are not used to determine a "life" prediction. HALT is a method to discover reliability weak links using the inherent strength limits found empirically in step stress testing. HASS is a production screening method to detect latent manufacturing defects based on the strengths found in HALT. A case history will show how one company achieved a 90% reduction in warranty returns after using HALT and HASS. This overview will also show how using HALT can help to accelerate the detection of software and firmware reliability issues. slides
Speaker: Kirk Gray, Accelerated Reliability Solutions
Speaker's Bio: Kirk Gray began working with Dr. Gregg Hobbs, the creator of HALT and HASS, at StorageTek Corporation in 1989, and has 20 years experience writing about, teaching, and using HALT. He has over 32 years in the electronics manufacturing industry beginning in the 1980's installing and servicing high vacuum semiconductor process equipment. From 2003 to 2010, he was a Senior Reliability Engineer at Dell, where he created and implemented the HALT to HASS development process on power supplies for client and server hardware that became a standard process for all Dell suppliers. The process was recognized for being the highest ROI (Return on Investment) ongoing reliability testing for the company. Kirk is a Senior Member of the IEEE and Charter Committee Member of the IEEE/CPMT Workshop on Accelerated Stress Testing and Reliability. He is a Senior Collaborator with the University of Maryland's Center for Advanced Life Cycle Engineering (CALCE) Consortium. He has presented papers on accelerated testing at numerous conferences and authored articles for leading industry magazines. He holds a BSEE from the University of Texas.
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 22, 2013 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

From Consultant to Consultant - Developing Your Personable Professional Brand

April 2013
Topic: From Consultant to Consultant - Developing Your Personable Professional Brand
Abstract: In an age of social media, all of us are easily distracted and seem to have to juggle not only our offline lives but also craft a memorable online life. Do you know your personal brand? You already have one ... it's already there. The best personal brands-like any good brand-are clear, unique, compelling and consistent. Join Austin's Marketing Gunslinger as she shares her tips and tricks on enhancing yours. Elizabeth will share how she transitioned from being an Aerospace Engineer into a full-time Marketing Consultant and will share her tips on creating your own career outside the cubicle. slides
Speaker: Elizabeth Quintanilla, Marketing Gunslinger
Speaker's Bio: Elizabeth is a positive, people-oriented, performance-driven Marketing Gunslinger, consultant, and speaker who focuses on understanding the customer perspective. She consults on: market research, messaging, channel strategies, understanding the impact of emerging business trends, web technologies and strategies, social and product marketing. Elizabeth actively serves as a Vice-Chair on the Austin Community Technology and Telecommunications Commission.
Date & Time: Wednesday, April 24, 2013 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

C3: Correction Code Cryptography

March 2013
Topic: C3: Correction Code Cryptography
Abstract: C3 is a family of symmetric key cryptographic algorithms utilizing Error Correction Codes (ECC). The digital information to be encrypted is wrapped with a privacy layer of blended random and derived noise. Removing the derived noise is achieved simply with the correct set of keys. With incorrect keys, the attacker recovers information that is different from what was originally protected. ECC is used to remove the random noise. ECC is used in one form or another in all mobile devices to recover from communication transmission errors and/or data storage errors. By leveraging existing ECC resources, implementing C3 on a wide variety of devices/systems requires nominal additional resources. slides
Speaker: Lawrence Huang, Carnegie Design Systems, Inc.
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Huang received BS and MS degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin in 1981 and 1984 respectively and a Ph.D. degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University in 1991. Dr. Huang has over 20 years of industry experience during which he has received 4 patents. His areas of expertise include design and verification of IC chips in the processor, communication, and consumer electronics space.
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 27, 2013 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

What Customers Want - It's Not Another New Product

February 2013
Topic: What Customers Want - It's Not Another New Product
Abstract: "Innovation" means "new value," not "new products" nor "new technologies." It's much easier and more obvious to just make a new product and try to get people to buy it. However, this strategy is a near-guarantee of failure: the five-year failure rate for start-ups is about 19 in 20! So, to succeed, you must first determine what your customers seek. Unfortunately, customers are well-trained to ask for things and are often unable to explain themselves in any real depth. As Henry Ford put it, if he had asked his customers what they wanted, they would have asked for faster horses. The only way to understand what your customers seek, what they desire, where they experience pain, and undermet (or overmet) needs, is to study them in anthropologic detail. Several methodologies exist for doing this. This talk will profile several of them and focus in detail on the most powerful and strategic of the set, DIG (Demand-first Innovation and Growth). Applying DIG, you will discover that opportunity truly is hidden in plain sight. You just have to know how to look. slides
Speaker: Royce W. Johnson, PhD., QuarterInchHoles
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Royce Johnson has driven innovation, technical advancements, and life-saving products in biomedicine for three decades, with an emphasis on clinical systems and critical care physiology. After a 30-year career of instigating medical technology innovation from within industry, Dr. Johnson is now applying his skills and creativity to a broader range of clients with his consulting firm, QuarterInchHoles, which focuses on demand-first methods to power innovation. His career in medical innovation has evolved from technology incubation to his current emphasis on imbuing the front-end of innovation with a deep understanding of the customer. As he says, "the technology is the easy part." Trained in bioengineering, technology management, and strategic innovation, he is an expert in discovery and development of high-value opportunities across the clinical ecosystem. Forming the foundation of his very broad biomedical expertise, Dr. Johnson spent his early career with Ohmeda Critical Care and Baxter Edwards. These "industrial post-doc" years were the basis of his conviction that deep insight into the customer is the key to successful technology commercialization. Dr. Johnson earned his bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in biology and bioengineering at the University of Utah and holds a certificate in technology and innovation from MIT Sloan School of Management. Now independently practicing in strategic innovation, Dr. Johnson continues to pursue his professional goal of applying and teaching the skills that enable large organizations to innovate effectively.
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 27, 2013 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Enabling Cyber-Physical Systems with Real-Time High-Performance Computing, Measurement and Control

January 2013
Topic: Enabling Cyber-Physical Systems with Real-Time High-Performance Computing, Measurement and Control
Abstract: In this presentation we describe a new generation of modular, heterogeneous, reconfigurable and embedded real-time high-performance computing systems (RT-HPC) to enable Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) that combine sensing, communications, computing and control of "systems of systems" such as the Smart-Grid or a swarm of unmanned robots. The RT-HPC systems discussed in this presentation make use of parallel processing and heterogeneous architectures for solving complex, computationally intensive scientific and engineering problems that involve input/output signals, within real-time constraints. The heterogeneous architecture takes advantage of the state-of-the-art multi-core CPUs, Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) to perform scientific and technical computations in real-time, with streaming temporal/spatial data (inputs) and online actuation/control (outputs). We will present examples of a wide spectrum of applications and scientific/engineering challenges that can be tackled by CPS, using RT-HPC systems in such industries as Energy, Transportation, Communications, National Security, Health and others.
Speaker: Igor Alvarado, Business Development Manager for Academic Research, National Instruments
Speaker's Bio: Mr. Alvarado is a Mechanical Engineer (Kansas State University, 1984) and currently works with National Instruments (NI) as the Business Development Manager for Academic Research. He has been with NI for more than 13 years, and has more than 25 years practical experience in the design, development and deployment of real-time, measurement and control systems that involve high-performance numerical methods in C, C++, FORTRAN and NI LabVIEW using PC-based and embedded technologies for a wide spectrum of research projects and industries including lean manufacturing and manufacturing automation. He has also been involved in the design and implementation of novel approaches for teaching/learning science and engineering at the university level, with a special emphasis on hands-on learning and experimental research. He is an active member of several professional societies, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), the Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM), the International Society of Automation (ISA), the American Physical Society (APS) and the Ibero-American Science and Technology Education Consortium (ISTEC). Mr. Alvarado has taught courses to engineers and scientists involved in instrumentation, control and automation applications in industry and academia. He has been an invited speaker at numerous leading universities, national and international meetings. Over the past 25 years, he has served as a consultant or advisory board member for several institutes, colleges, universities, corporations and research laboratories.
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Holiday Social and Networking Event

December 2012
Topic: Holiday Social and Networking Event
Abstract: You are invited to share an evening with your fellow consultants and enjoy some holiday cheer. CTCN will provide the snacks. You buy your favorite beverages.
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 19, 2012 (Please note this special meeting is one week earlier due to Christmas): Networking and Socializing from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Location: Opal Divine's Marina, 12709 N. Mopac, Austin, TX 78727. Just north of Parmer Lane and near Fry's Electronics.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Green Trends and Innovations in the Electronic Industry

November 2012
Topic: Green Trends and Innovations in the Electronic Industry
Abstract: This presentation will provide electronic manufacturers an opportunity to learn about a Green Trends and Materials program that electronic OEMs are exploring and potentially introduce into their products if proven viable. Not only are hazardous materials being phased out through Restricted Substance Lists, but there are other areas to further improve the environmental footprint of an electronic product. The introduction of sustainable solutions such as bio-based plastics or Post Consumer Recycled (PCR) plastics will likely compliment this drive towards greener electronics.
Speaker: Albert Tsang, Sr. Engineer, Dell Environmental Affairs
Speaker's Bio: Albert has spent 14 years of his career in various supply chain and engineering positions in the electronic industry with Celestica, ATI Technologies, AMD, and now with Dell. The focus for the past 10 years has been on environmental materials compliance with emphasis on RoHS type regulations, halogen free initiatives, REACH Directive, and other 'Green Materials' initiatives. Albert is currently the Subject Matter Expert (SME) on materials in Dell's Worldwide Environmental Affairs Organization. Albert is a member of the Board of Directors of HDPUG and he had chaired the HDPUG halogen free cables and wires project, and the PWB LCA project. He is also an active member of iNEMI's Environmental Leadership Council. Albert holds a B. Eng in Chemical Engineering and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from McGill University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 28, 2012 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Legendary Engineering Success Stories

October 2012
IEEE Central Texas Consultants Network (CTCN) Joint Meeting with:
IEEE Circuits and Systems / Solid-State Circuits Society (CAS/SSC)
IEEE Council on Electronic Design Automation (CEDA)
IEEE Life Members (LM)
IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE)
Topic: Legendary Engineering Success Stories
Abstract: Mr. Daniels will speak on the topic of "Legendary Engineering Success Stories." In particular, he will tell the story of the Motorola 68HC11 Microcontroller, highlighting the contributions of technology, system and circuit design, marketing, manufacturing and management. He will compare this story to that of another legendary engineering success, the B17. slides
Speaker: R. Gary Daniels
Speaker's Bio: Gary Daniels is a retired Motorola Senior Vice President and Microcontroller Division General Manager. Gary earned a BSEE degree from the University of New Mexico and continued graduate studies at the Arizona State University. His professional career included 6 years at Sandia National Labs, 32 years at Motorola Semiconductor, 10 years as an ECE adjunct professor at the University of Texas, 10 years on the Board of Directors of National Instruments, 4 years as a member of the Texas Advisory Committee on Research, and 2 years as a consultant for Silicon Labs. Currently, Mr. Daniels is on the advisory board, and is a part-time contributing engineer, at GIT Satellite Communications.
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: Building A, Auditorium, Business Park at 7700 W. Parmer Lane, Austin TX (Former Freescale Semiconductor building; now is South University)
Map: map
Cost: No charge for this special event.
Reservations: Reservations are required using vTools: vTools

Automating the Modeling of the Scalability of Computing Systems Performance Using Industry Standard (SPEC) Benchmarks

September 2012
Topic: Automating the Modeling of the Scalability of Computing Systems Performance Using Industry Standard (SPEC) Benchmarks
Abstract: Although not a Big Data problem, the large amount of performance data on the many computing platforms that are engineered and deployed every month present problems in being able to objectively assess how the performance of these systems really compare. This presentation will discuss techniques to acquire and process industry standard benchmarks (SPEC) using algorithms for product models that predict how the performance of those systems scale under changing workloads.
Speaker: Dr. Ted Lehr
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Ted Lehr is a Senior Software Engineer at CA Technologies. He has over 25 years of experience analyzing, modeling, supporting, and managing computer performance. He has seven patents and has over 20 published technical articles. He received his Ph.D in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, September 26, 2012 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Smart Solar Power System Controller

August 2012
Topic: Smart Solar Power System Controller
Abstract: John will talk about the commercial and utility-scale PV installations market and the latest technology in energy management and monitoring tool that includes artificial intelligence for decision-making and risk management.
Speaker: John Merritt
Speaker's Bio: John has over 30 years of technical marketing, technology commercialization, and product launch experience. Prior to joining Solar Power Technologies as VP of Field Operations, John spent several years as a business development consultant to Clean Tech companies. He co-founded Traq-Wireless and NetSolve, and also worked at Dallas Semiconductor and Motorola. Mr. Merritt has a BS in Electrical Engineering from The University of Texas.
Date & Time: Wednesday, August 22, 2012 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Enhance Your Consulting Success

July 2012
Topic: Enhance Your Consulting Success
Abstract: Surviving and thriving as a consultant demands continuous relationship building and continuous improvement of your practice. Brad Closson and Mike Leamon leverage their 50 years of combined experience to give all their secrets away in the areas of Visual Problem Solving, Connective Networking, and Lean Continuous Improvement. This session demonstrates Visual Problem Solving techniques as we interactively cover the following topics: 1) Connective Networking to learn an authentic and dare we say enjoyable approach to initiating and building a Grove of business relationships that last; 2) Lean Continuous Improvement to learn how the Effectiveness Foundation model embodies key Lean principles and guides the continuous improvement of your consulting practice. slides
Speaker: Brad Closson and Mike Leamon
Speaker's Bio: Brad Closson and Mike Leamon specialize in assisting clients with painful special projects through the use of high engagement Visual Problem Solving. As Connective Management, they work with large organizations that are ready to break through their pain using breakthrough collaboration. Their uniquely eclectic and potent mix of custom and borrowed methods is shaped from decades of experience working with organizations like the London Underground Railway, Porsche Consulting, Kellogg's, Nestlé Foods, Dell, AMD, and National Instruments. War Rooms and Visual Planning using Lean methods and principles represent the most energizing way Brad and Mike have found to help busy organizations manage complex projects and resolve organizational pain. Company Web Site: www.connectivemanagement.com.
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 25, 2012 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Microcontrollers in Healthcare: Meeting Home Portable Healthcare Device Requirements

June 2012
Topic: Microcontrollers in Healthcare: Meeting Home Portable Healthcare Device Requirements
Abstract: Portable healthcare devices are evolving into comprehensive gadgets that include advanced communication protocols, stylish user interfaces, and data logging resources. This evolution cannot come at the cost of key application requirements for long battery life, accurate and reliable measurements, and cost effectiveness. The Freescale Kinetis K50 ARM Cortex-M4 microcontroller with integrated analog front end satisfies healthcare device requirements with exceptional low power design and integration of key peripherals such as capacitive touch sensing hardware. slides
Speaker: Donnie Garcia
Speaker's Bio: Donnie Garcia is a Systems Engineer with Freescale's Microcontroller Solutions Group. He is responsible for new product introduction from product definition to development tool requirements, die size trade-offs, and feasibility studies. As an active member of Freescale's intellectual property (IP) teams, Donnie defines IP roadmaps and IP for new products, and conducts research and evaluation of competitive products.
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 27, 2012 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Consultants Workshop - Time to Recharge

May 2012

May 2012 Consultants Workshop

Time to Recharge - May 16, 2012, 1:30pm -6pm

Spring is the time to recharge, renew, and refresh the art and knowledge of managing and conducting a successful consulting business. Come join us for this fourth annual workshop, learn something new, network, and share your experiences with fellow consultants and colleagues.

Agenda

1:30 - 2:00 Registration and Networking
2:00 - 2:05 Introduction - Kai Wong
2:05 - 3:00 "Consulting 201 for the 21st Century" - Pat Goodwin, Pat Goodwin Associates slides
3:00 - 3:55 "Ten Tips for Social Media" - Patricia Tynan, Sage Nonprofit Solutions slides
3:55 - 4:10 Break
4:10 - 5:05 "Contracts, Liability, Insurance, and IP" - Bill Hulsey, HULSEY, P.C., Intellectual Property Lawyers
5:05 - 6:00 "Building a Consulting Business from Scratch" - David Swenson, Affinity Static Control Consulting slides

Detailed speaker biographies can be viewed here.

Location

Building A, Auditorium, Business Park at 7700 W. Parmer Lane, Austin TX - Map

Registration

$20/$30 IEEE members; $25/$35 Public; $10/$15 IEEE Lifetime Member or Student; In Advance/At Door. Please pay at the event with cash or check to "IEEE-CTS." No Credit Cards please.

Please RSVP to Bob Baker. or use IEEE vTools here.

Thermal Management Techniques for Light Emitting Diodes

April 2012
Topic: Thermal Management Techniques for Light Emitting Diodes
Abstract: Light Emitting Diodes (LED) are expected to replace the incandescent and compact fluorescent lighting in the next few years. LEDs conserve less power, thereby saving more energy, and also provide an environmentally sustainable technology. According to Department of Energy it is estimated that switching to LED lighting over the next two decades could save the country $120 billion in energy costs, reduce the electricity consumption for lighting by one-fourth, and avoid 246 million metric tons of carbon emission. However, there are some barriers for deployment and this is due to the efficiency of LEDs measured by Lumens per Watt and is impacted by two technological challenges:

1. Driver Efficiency (Efficiency in Integrated Circuits which provides a stable power to the LED)

2. Thermal Management (Efficiency of LED impacted by the junction temperate of LED. Heating impacts the CCT and performance of LED).

The techniques used to solve the efficiency uses are discussed in the presentation. These include development of innovative driver integrated circuits for LEDs and new types of thermal interface materials for reducing the LED junction temperature. slides

Speaker: Rekha Bangalore
Speaker's Bio: Rekha K. Bangalore is the founder and CTO of Nanothermo, a start-up company based in Austin TX. Nanothermo develops thermal interface materials for improving efficiency of Light Emitting Diodes. Ms.Bangalore has worked in semiconductor industries including companies like Intel, Motorola, and Freescale for over 20 years. The core competencies include design for test and verification of system on chip designs and microprocessors. She is currently a validation lead consultant at Freescale Semiconductor and an adjunct faculty in Austin Community College.
Date & Time: Wednesday, April 25, 2012 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Iridium: Where It's Been and Where It's Going

March 2012
Topic: Iridium: Where It's Been and Where It's Going
Abstract: The Iridium satellite communication system was conceived over 20 years ago to allow telephone calls to be made from the most remote locations on Earth. Since then, the system has evolved with new capabilities and new hardware options. One of the most exciting features that has been added since Iridium was launched enables machine-to-machine communication from nearly anywhere on the planet. This talk will outline the history of Iridium, it's future, and describe applications for satellite-based tracking with products available from GIT Satellite and others. slides
Speaker: Michael Cruess
Speaker's Bio: Michael Cruess began his career at Motorola Inc. where he held engineering and management positions. He was a co-developer of Motorola's first 32-bit microprocessor chip set and led a team developing operating system and compiler software. He was a Motorola assignee to the MCC Research Consortium where he led the development of the Experimental Systems Kit distributed C++ environment. At Motorola Labs he led a team that developed proof-of-concept demonstrations for advanced technologies. A chance conversation led Michael into intellectual property work. At Freescale Semiconductor, Michael oversaw invention disclosure, review and prioritization for Freescale's business units. After leaving Freescale, Michael worked as a Technical Advisor at the law firm of Meyertons, Hood, Kivlin, Kowert and Goetzel. Michael did regulatory and medical safety certification work for Waldo Health before landing at GIT Satellite, where he holds the position of VP Systems Engineering. Mr. Cruess earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Rice University and a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin. Mr. Cruess is a member of the IEEE.
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 28, 2012 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Building a Successful Consulting Practice

February 2012
Topic: Building a Successful Consulting Practice
Abstract: During this presentation Amy will share insights about how to transform your knowledge into a flourishing business. She will discuss how to develop a package of services that sell. Audience members will gain a better understanding of what makes a great consulting practice and how to grow a profitable firm. At the end of the presentation, Amy will facilitate a Q and A in which attendees can ask for advice about their own consultancies. slides
Speaker: Amy Holloway
Speaker's Bio: Amy Holloway has 17 years of experience as an economic development strategist. After a decade of working for other firms, she started her own practice, Avalanche Consulting, in 2005. Today, Avalanche Consulting is a highly successful boutique consultancy that has advised communities across the US, such as Miami-Dade, Jacksonville, Charleston, Topeka, Helena, Greater Houston, and dozens of others. Since its founding, Avalanche's clients have generated thousands of new jobs and billions of dollars in new capital investment. Previously, Amy served as senior project manager and vice president of economic development for Angelou Economics and as an economic consultant at The Perryman Group. She is a member of the International Economic Development Council and the Texas Economic Development Council. Her BBA and MS degrees in Environmental Economics are from Baylor University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 22, 2012 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

The Evolution of Engineering Codes of Ethics

January 2012
Topic: The Evolution of Engineering Codes of Ethics
Abstract: Engineering codes of ethics remained relatively static for many years after 1947. It is interesting and instructive to see how they have changed in the last two decades.
Speaker: Bob Hunter
Speaker's Bio: Bob obtained BS and MS degrees in Electrical Engineering from Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA. His industry experience includes quality control, patent engineering and, for over 30 years, regulatory compliance engineering. Bob's latest book includes several chapters on engineering ethics and will be the subject of a "show-and-tell" at the meeting.
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 25, 2012 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Holiday Social and Networking Event

December 2011
Topic: Holiday Social and Networking Event
Agenda: You are invited to share an evening with your fellow consultants and enjoy some holiday cheer. CTCN will provide the snacks. You buy your favorite beverages.
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 14, 2011 (Please note this special meeting is one week earlier due to Christmas): Networking and Socializing from 4:00 to 7:00 pm
Location: Opal Divine's Marina, 12709 N. Mopac, Austin, TX 78727
Directions: Just north of Parmer Lane and near Fry's Electronics.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Design for Testability for Integrated Circuits

November 2011
Topic: Design for Testability for Integrated Circuits
Abstract: Moore's Law is helping pack ever more functionality and circuitry onto a silicon wafer. This makes access and testing of the highly embedded devices more difficult. This presentation will cover what is design for testability as it applies to digital designs, some fundamental test theory, and common DFT methodologies as practiced today. slides
Speaker: Luis Basto
Speaker's Bio: Luis is a member of the Front-End Solutions team at Cadence Design Systems. The primary focus of his current job is to help customers resolve front-end design issues particularly in the area of DFT. Luis has over 23 years of design and DFT experience in the semiconductor industry working for Motorola, AMD, Analog Devices, Texas Instruments, and Cadence. He has worked as an individual contributor as well as managed design teams globally. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and has been awarded 6 US patents in the area of design and DFT. He has a BSEE from the University of Houston and an MSEE from Southern Methodist University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 16, 2011 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

The challenges of building a new design center

October 2011
Topic: The challenges of building a new design center
Abstract: Prior to his current position, Keith Hawkins had built four design centers as part of the leadership team of his former semiconductor companies. In this talk, Keith will share his experience and observation of building design team in the past to the current challenge and opportunity to build it from almost ground up. Keith will further delineate on getting upper management support, common goal setting, planning and execution, building the core design leadership team, site selection, recruitment process, head count growth and design tools selection, building relationship and communication channels with other SOC design centers and manufacturing centers.
Speaker: Keith Hawkins
Speaker's Bio: Keith joined Samsung in April of 2010 as the leader and founding member of Samsung Austin R&D Center (SARC). The focus of SARC is on the development of advanced CPU and GPU IP for use in Samsung's SOC products primarily targeted at the high-end of the mobile market. Keith has over 30 years of design and management experience in IC development. He has been involved with microprocessor, embedded and telecommunications development over the course of his career. He has managed and worked with design teams around the world including building a number of successful design centers. In addition to his current position with Samsung he had a long tenure with AMD where he was responsible for Server and Client product development plus he has worked at Sun, Alcatel and Mostek. He has a BSEE for Texas A&M and MBA from University of Dallas.
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 26, 2011 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Memory Technology Trends

September 2011
Topic: Memory Technology Trends
Abstract: Technology trends of DRAM, Flash and SRAM memory will be discussed. Standalone DRAM and Flash are increasing bits/unit area and bandwidth by using 3D technologies and vertical processing. Future Flash Non-Volatile memories could move from charge based to resistance based technologies including PCM and ReRAM. Embedded DRAM and SRAM scaling could use 1T capacitorless DRAM or 3T logic based DRAM. Embedded RAM and Flash might be replaced by unified RAMs. STT-MRAM could be in the future of SRAM.
Speaker: Dr. Betty Prince
Speaker's Bio: Dr. Prince is CEO of Memory Strategies International. She has 35+ years experience in the semiconductor industry having worked with Texas Instruments, N.V. Philips, and Motorola in memory technology and marketing management; at R.C.A. in the development of an early microprocessor; and at Fairchild in semiconductor process technology. She is author of several books on Semiconductor Memories. She is a Senior Life Member of the IEEE, an IEEE SSCS Distinguished Lecturer on Memory, and was on the Technical Advisory Board of IEEE Spectrum magazine. She was founder of the JEDEC JC-16 Interface Standards Committee, and Co-Chair of the JC-42 SRAM Memory Committee. She has served on the Technical Advisory Board of several memory companies, and was a Director of Mosaid Technologies for many years. She holds patents in the memory, processor, and interface areas. She has a B.S. and M.S. in physics and math from the University of New Mexico and the University of California, an M.B.A. and a Ph.D. from the University of Texas with a doctoral dissertation on fractal modeling.
Date & Time: Wednesday, September 28, 2011 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Protecting IP on a Bootstrap Budget

August 2011
Topic: Protecting IP on a Bootstrap Budget
Abstract: "Protecting IP on a Bootstrap Budget" delves into what steps cash-starved startups, bootstraps, and other entrepreneurs can take to protect their intellectual property (IP). While the presentation will focus on patents, it will also cover copyrights, trademarks, service marks, and trade secrets. The presentation will be interactive so there is no need to hold questions for the end. The evening will include time though for Q and A at the end. slides
Speaker: Bob Villhard
Speaker's Bio: Bob is a Rocket Scientist turned Patent Attorney. Bob brings his NASA-can-do attitude to solving IP related issues. He possesses 9 years of patent preparation and prosecution experience coupled with over 15 years of engineering and management experience. Bob has written over 100 patent applications, prosecuted hundreds more, and successfully appealed applications for universities, established corporations, entrepreneurs, start-up companies, and other clients. In addition he has helped clients design around existing patents, performed non-infringement analyses, and supervised other Intellectual Property Attorneys. Moreover, Bob's extensive engineering and managerial experience includes work on the Space Station and Space Shuttle projects (among other NASA projects).
Date & Time: Wednesday, August 24, 2011 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Product Teardown Analysis for Technical Marketing, Competitive Intelligence, and Intellectual Property Assertion

July 2011
Topic: Product Teardown Analysis for Technical Marketing, Competitive Intelligence, and Intellectual Property Assertion
Abstract: UBM TechInsights is the leading provider of detailed product teardown analyses to customers in the semiconductor, wireless, consumer electronics, and intellectual property sectors, who use the teardown data in a variety of applications including technical marketing, competitive intelligence, and the assertion of patent and intellectual property rights. In our presentation to the IEEE Consultants Network, we will introduce the key technical elements of product teardown analysis as practiced by TechInsights, and provide further detail on how the data is put to use by customer companies. slides
Speakers: Don Stroud and Bob Widenofer, UBM TechInsights-Austin, www.ubmtechinsights.com
Speakers' Bio's: Don Stroud serves as Product Marketing Manager, Technical Intelligence, UBM TechInsights-Austin, identifying new applications for an extensive database of system and component metrics derived from 1,200+ product teardowns. He joined the team in 2000 after Portelligent was spun-out from MCC and served as Director of Business Development until the acquisition by UBM TechInsights in 2007. Prior to TechInsights, Don served as Director of Business Development for several successful Austin start-ups including Aerotech Products, Austin Publishing, DataSite, and Aqua Acquisitions. He was destined for the teardown business when he dissected his father's Emerson reel-reel and his new Briggs & Stratton lawn mower engine at the age of 8.

Bob Widenhofer is a Senior Product Analyst at UBM TechInsights-Austin, producing teardown reports and related industry research on wireless, mobile, and personal electronics. His external publications on teardown analysis have appeared in EETimes, Medical Design Technology, and Embedded Systems Design. A veteran of the semiconductor industry, he worked in CMOS device development, characterization, and modeling at Motorola Semiconductor and later at Freescale. Bob holds Bachelor's ('95) and Master's ('96) degrees in electrical engineering, both from the University of Florida.

Date & Time: Wednesday, July 27, 2011 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

June 2011 Consultants Workshop

June 2011

June 2011 Consultants Workshop

Key Consulting Support Tools - June 15, 2011, 1:30pm -6pm

A successful consultant brings expertise in a given area to the pursuit of satisfying a client's objectives. But a consulting business requires more than technical expertise to be viable. Some of the key support tools that are required to facilitate client acquisition will be discussed in this workshop. Join us to learn from our panel of experts.

Agenda

1:30 - 2:00 Registration and Networking
2:00 - 2:05 Introduction - Kai Wong
2:05 - 3:00 "Why Entrepreneurs Fail" - Kevin Koym, Tech Ranch slides
3:00 - 3:55 "Mentoring, Coaching, and the Importance of Examples" - Dr. John Vanston, Technology Futures Inc.
3:55 - 4:10 Break
4:10 - 5:05 "Marketing Your Consulting Business" - Dr. Robert Badgley, Emcon Systems slides
5:05 - 6:00 "Building a Simple and Sustainable Sales Plan" - Bob Davis, Simple Sales Strategy slides

Detailed speaker presentation abstracts and biographies can be viewed here.

Location

Freescale Bldg-A Conference Center at 7700 W. Parmer Lane, Austin - Map

Registration

Cost for this workshop: $20/$30 IEEE members; $25/$35 Public; In Advance/At Door.

Please pay at the event with cash or check to IEEE-CTS. No Credit Cards please.

Please register by filling in the form below and emailing back to Bob Baker at: rjbakeratx@austin.rr.com

**********************************************************************************

Registration Form for IEEE Consultant Workshop on June 15, 2011

Name:____________________ _____________________ Company/Org:________________________

Email Address:_________________________________ Position:___________________________

IEEE Member: Yes / No *Will you like to join IEEE? Yes - will get the $20/$30 rate.

Wind Energy in Texas

May 2011
Topic: Wind Energy in Texas
Abstract: This presentation will address: Historic growth and current generation mix; Factors that contributed to dramatic expansion of wind; Impact of wind on system operations; and Adding transmission to accommodate more wind - policy initiatives. slides
Speaker: Mark Kapner, P.E., Senior Strategy Engineer, Austin Energy
Speaker's Bio's: Mr. Kapner was instrumental in developing and running Austin's GreenChoice Program, the nation's leading renewable energy marketing program. He originated the "dual storage media" system for integrating off-peak wind energy and solar thermal to produce utility-scale dispatchable energy. Kapner also helped to launch Plug-In Partners, the Austin Energy-lead campaign to persuade the automobile industry to build plug-in hybrid vehicles. He has 30 years of experience in energy technology and environmental engineering and policy. Prior to coming to Austin, Kapner launched TerraSolar USA, a solar photovoltaics company based in New Jersey. He was a research and development manager in the New York Power Authority where he developed demonstration projects in energy storage, biomass energy, solar, and cogeneration. Kapner spent ten years as a consultant to federal government agencies, including the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency. He has a BS in Engineering Science from the State University of New York and a Masters in Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 25, 2011 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

Technical Update on the Pecan Street Project

April 2011
Topic: Technical Update on the Pecan Street Project
Abstract: Mr. Haskell will provide an overview of the goals of the Pecan Street Project's Smart Energy Internet Demonstration at Mueller that is funded by a DOE stimulus grant. He will also talk about the technology architecture for the baseline study and an update on recent technical findings. slides
Speaker: Bert Haskell
Speaker's Bio's: Bert Haskell is the Technology Director for the Pecan Street Project. He has been working in technology and product development since starting his career in 1984 with Eastman Kodak, where he worked for 5 years as an electronics manufacturing process development engineer while earning his Masters Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Rochester. Bert then worked for 9 years at the Microelectronics and Computer Technology Corp. (MCC) in Austin,TX, concluding his tenure there as Vice president of Portable Electronics Product Research. Since 2000, he has held product development, product marketing, and advisory rolls at a number of start-up companies including Stellar Display Corporation, Wireless Age, Motion Computing, Portelligent and most recently, Heliovolt, where he was Director of Product Development for CIGS based thin-film photovoltaic modules. He joined Pecan Street Project on August 1, 2010.
Date & Time: *** Special date, this month only *** Thursday, April 21, 2011 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin, TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
RSVP and for more information: Please email to ctcnaustin at gmail dot com.

DSP - The Technology Behind Multimedia

March 2011
Topic: DSP - The Technology Behind Multimedia
Abstract: The multimedia products that we enjoy today share a common technology backbone: Digital Signal Processing (DSP). The digital revolution for consumers started with the introduction of the Compact Disc (CD) format for music distribution. With the increasing computing power and lower cost of digital processing resulting from Moore's Law, advanced signal processing algorithms have allowed consumer products such as HDTV, DVD and Blu-ray, MP3 players, multimedia capable smart phones, and audio/video streaming. This presentation will look into how analog signals such as sound and pictures are brought in and out of the digital domain for communication, storage, transmission, processing and playback, as well as some of the DSP algorithms. slides
Speaker: Sergio Liberman
Speaker's Bio's: Sergio Liberman has more than 24 years of experience in the semiconductor industry in the design and architecture of over 20 chips including DSP processors, digital-to-analog converters, Class-D audio amplifiers and SoC application processors. These devices have been used in digital audio systems for consumer, professional, and automotive applications. Sergio holds two patents in high-performance audio digital-to-analog converter design, and has authored over 15 technical publications during his 28 year career span in electronics engineering. Sergio holds a B.Sc. EE from Tel-Aviv University.
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 23, 2011 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: PoK-e-Jo's Restaurant, 2121 W. Parmer Lane at Lamplight Village, Austin TX 78727
Map: map
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

The Future of the Internet

February 2011
Topic: The Future of the Internet
Abstract: As the Internet has evolved, it has become increasingly powerful and increasingly valuable. It has become so valuable and pervasive that change seems inevitable. What is the future of the Internet? Will it change from an engine of innovation, an inexpensive platform for publishing and sharing all sorts of data with a low barrier to entry? Or will we see an increasing number of barriers and pay walls as the Internet is increasingly used as a platform for rich media? Internet expert Jon Lebkowsky will lead a discussion of the Internet's evolution and future. slides
Speaker: Jon Lebkowsky
Speaker's Bio's: Jon Lebkowsky is an Internet expert and evangelist. He consults on effective strategic use of the Internet and web. He also writes about culture, technology, media, and the future. He is Chief Digital Officer at Plutopia Productions and Executive Editor at the Plutopia News Network.
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 23, 2011 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Slideware Simplified for Technologists

January 2011
Topic: Slideware Simplified for Technologists
Abstract: Slideware has become the default method for communicating technical ideas. Slideware has been blamed for many things from the shuttle disaster to the failing war strategy. In this presentation we will look at the do's and dont's of technical presentations with examples, good and bad. Attendees will gain critical perspectives on presentation design to succeed in business.
Speaker: Prabhakar Gopalan, Founder and Principal, Whole Mind Consulting wholemindconsulting.com
Speaker's Bio's: Prabhakar Gopalan has over 13 years of experience in technology companies large and small, in consultant, product management, and product marketing roles. He has an MBA from UT Austin and a graduate degree in MIS from Texas A&M. You can follow his tweets @PGopalan. He is also a contributor at the popular product management blog OnProductManagement.net and his personal blog at winningproducts.com.
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 26, 2011 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Holiday Social and Networking Event

December 2010
Topic: Holiday Social and Networking Event
Agenda: You are invited to share an evening with your fellow consultants and enjoy some holiday cheer. CTCN will provide the snacks. You buy your favorite beverages.
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 15, 2010 (Please note this special meeting is one week earlier due to Christmas): Networking and Socializing from 5:00 to 7:00 pm
Location: Opal Divine's Marina, 12709 N. Mopac, Austin, TX 78727
Directions: Just north of Parmer Lane and near Fry's Electronics.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Technical Trends in Telecom/Datacom Drive New Wave of Architectural Design and New Market Opportunities

November 2010
Topic: Technical Trends in Telecom/Datacom Drive New Wave of Architectural Design and New Market Opportunities
Abstract: The presentation provides a macro view of technological trends supported by examples and market data and will discuss impact on semiconductor SoC architectural design. Will also provide examples covering value chain from semiconductor to service providers for some vertical markets. Some of the topics that will be addressed include: trends in computing, mobility, internet, video / multimedia, storage, semiconductor process technology, processor overview, SoC design, multicore, virtualization, power management, market share, and application examples such as LTE. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of Telecom/Datacom trends and the identification of emerging market opportunities. slides
Speaker: Fawzi Behmann, Founder of TelNet Management
Speaker's Bio's: Fawzi Behmann has over 30 years experience in telecommunications and data communications. His roles have included product management, marketing leadership, program management, and software development. Currently an independent consultant, his TelNet Management company offers proactive services to help business entities advance to the next level, capitalizing on the most advanced techniques and tools. Key areas of focus include streamlining the governance model to increase business results, and technical and business initiatives fostering collaborative innovation. Prior to TelNet Management, Fawzi was the Director of Strategic Marketing with Motorola/Freescale and he was also the chair of the marketing committee of Power.org advancing Power Architecture technology and ecosystems. Previously, he was senior product manager at Nortel Networks. He has also been a project leader and program director at a global service provider, leading software development for a system based on computer networks for real-time monitoring and control for telecom traffic and services. He participated in the development of ITU M.3000 standards for Telecom Management Networks, has written and published several white papers, and was presenter or keynote speaker at several conferences. Fawzi holds a B.SC, Master in Computer Science, and Executive MBA.
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 17, 2010 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the meeting day for 2010: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Li-ion Batteries and Electric Vehicles

October 2010
Topic: Li-ion Batteries and Electric Vehicles
Abstract: Electric vehicles (EV) are beginning to come to the market in record numbers of model types as well as units. Will they be successful? A key factor in EV design is the energy source. Most of the newer EV designs are based on Li-ion batteries. Mr. Sandahl will provide his perspective on Li-ion batteries and electric vehicles in terms of technology, design considerations and evolution of the industry. slides
Speaker: Joel Sandahl
Speaker's Bio's: Joel Sandahl is the CEO of ZX Technologies (ZXTECH), a technology consulting firm. He has been providing business and technical leadership to companies for more than 35 years. Mr. Sandahl has founded five technology companies, selling two of them to Fortune 100 companies. He has served in senior management for a number of Fortune 500 companies. For the past five years, he has been leading business and technology developments in the Li-ion battery industry. His clients include some of the largest Li-ion battery producers.
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 27, 2010 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the meeting day for 2010: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

MINITRENDS: Seizing the Future Before It's Defined

September 2010
Topic: MINITRENDS: Seizing the Future Before It's Defined
Abstract: Minitrends are emerging trends that promise to become of significant importance within the next 2 to 5 years. When applied properly, Minitrends provides you with the opportunity to utilize and express your imagination, your perceptiveness, your originality, your logic, your innovative nature, and your basic good sense. Minitrend involvement also provides you a way to distinguish yourself from your colleagues and contemporaries. For more information, please visit the Minitrends website.
Speaker: Dr. John Vanston
Speaker's Bio's: Dr. John Vanston is Chairman of Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI), a company he founded in 1978 and has built into a leading authority in custom research, forecasting, and trend analysis in telecom and other high-technology industries. John has conducted analyses of emerging technologies for a wide range of Fortune 500, governmental, and academic organizations. Prior to TFI, John served as a Professor of Nuclear Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin and as Deputy Director of the University's Center for Energy Studies. Earlier, John served as a Lt. Col. in the U.S. Army.
Date & Time: Wednesday, September 22, 2010 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the meeting day for 2010: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Cross-Industry and Cross-Border Ramifications from the U.S. Supreme Court's Bilski v. Kappos Decision

August 2010
Topic: Cross-Industry and Cross-Border Ramifications from the U.S. Supreme Court's Bilski v. Kappos Decision
Abstract: On June 28, 2010 the Supreme Court rendered a decision in Bilski v. Kappos to affirm the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's denying patent protection for a business method, while confirming that certain business methods could receive U.S. patent protection. In doing so, the Court emphasized the importance of time-honored practices in quality patent preparation. This decision has broad application to many industries as well as to international patent procurement.
Speaker: William N. Hulsey III, Principal, HULSEY, P.C., Intellectual Property Lawyers
Speaker's Bio's: Mr. Hulsey established HULSEY, P.C., Intellectual Property Lawyers (HULSEYIP) to apply a highly developed specialty and experience in a broad span of technical fields. HULSEYIP takes great pride in serving emerging growth companies competing in global markets with products and services relating to energy, life sciences, electronics, environmental, software, and aerospace technologies. As broad as are HULSEYIP's technology proficiencies, the firm is yet tightly focused in providing its clients with the highest quality in patent, trade secret, copyright, and trademark legal services. As a practicing patent attorney, Mr. Hulsey has developed and implemented complete intellectual property protection and licensing programs for numerous companies.
Date & Time: Wednesday, August 25, 2010 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the meeting day for 2010: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

OWASP and Their Role in Web Security

July 2010
Topic: OWASP and Their Role in Web Security
Abstract: This talk will focus on web application security and how its security fits into the SDLC. We will discuss OWASP resources for developers, managers, legal teams, and more. This talk will also highlight Austin resources for web application security and cover an overview of the top web application security vulnerabilities. OWASP is an international organization focused on web application security.
Speaker: James Wickett
Speaker's Bio's: James Wickett is the current Vice President of the Austin OWASP chapter and is chairing the 2010 Lonestar Application Security Conference which is a regional OWASP conference. Outside of OWASP, he works for National Instruments as a Web Systems Engineer in the R&D department. He is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma. Current certifications: CISSP,GCFW.
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 28, 2010 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the meeting day for 2010: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Is the Mass Market Holding Us Back in Energy Innovation?

June 2010
Topic: Is the Mass Market Holding Us Back in Energy Innovation?
Abstract: Energy is a cornerstone of our society, but our current system has problematic unintended consequences. In a time of diverse research in energy, it's more than just technology that needs to change. What can be learned from other industries that have gone through immense changes? Can the energy industry change? slides
Speaker: Joel Greenberg
Speaker's Bio's: Joel Greenberg is an interactive marketing and PR expert with an interest in energy and clean tech. He hosts the popular Tech2Energy.com podcast. Joel appears in the independent documentary, Haynesville, about the Haynesville Shale. He is the Executive Director of the Pecan Commons, a Tech Ranch project that promotes energy entrepreneurs.
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the meeting day for 2010: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

On The Deep Water Horizon - Some Slides, Discussion, and Sharing of Insights

May 2010
Topic: On The Deep Water Horizon - Some Slides, Discussion, and Sharing of Insights
Abstract: This talk will address some interesting aspects of drilling operations in general and of the Deep Water Horizon, in particular, and will show some close up photos of the DWH rig and the recent explosion. After the talk, the floor will be open for a group discussion. The speaker does not present as a drilling expert but rather as an Electrical Engineer with great admiration for the enormous technological achievements of the drilling industry and a continual interest and curiosity about such things. He has spent many years of his career in the development of geophysical instruments and methodology, and in geophysical exploration contracting with the major oil companies, often working in close conjunction with well siting, drilling and production operations. He has also been involved in the analysis and development of borehole logging tools and the efforts to do 'measurements while drilling' (MWD) type logging. He has thus gained some useful insights into oil well drilling through such professional association.
Speaker: Dr. Darrell R. Word, PhD, PE
Speaker's Bio's: Dr. Darrell R. Word, PhD, PE is an electrical engineer with extensive experience in both academia and industry. He has a particular strength in math and physics and underlying principles of science and engineering, and this includes a strong background in electromagnetics. He also has substantial knowledge and experience in mechanical engineering and electro-mechanical systems. Dr. Word has practiced extensively in the areas of instrumentation, analog circuits and systems, data acquisition, signal processing and control systems. A diverse technical knowledge has also enabled a professional practice in several other disciplines, including RF Systems, Antennas, Radio navigation, electrical power engineering, and electrical geophysics. He is a Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Texas.
Date & Time: Wednesday, May 26, 2010 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the meeting day for 2010: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Consultants Workshop: Consulting Nuts and Bolts

April 2010

Consultants Workshop: Consulting Nuts and Bolts – April 23, 2010, 1:30pm -6pm

Based on prior feedback, the focus of this year's workshop will be "Consulting Nuts and Bolts," followed by an "Ask The Consultants" panel discussion. Both sessions will provide you with more insights into the working life of a consultant from our speakers' personal experiences and perspectives. Join us to learn from and network with established consultants and those who are interested in consulting.

Agenda

1:30 - 2:00 Registration and Networking
2:00 - 2:05 Introduction -– Kai Wong
2:05 - 2:55 “It’s All About Relationships - Marketing for Consultants and Consulting Firms" - Christine Lambden and Casey Conner slides
2:55 - 3:45 "Engineering Consulting Business - 20 Years Experience to Share" - Darrel Word slides
3:45 - 4:00 Break
4:00 - 4:50 "A Consulting Startup Journey" - Andrew Cahoon slides tools
4:50 - 5:20 "Business Analysis: Its Value and Application for Consultants" - Abdul Jabali slides
5:20 - 6:00 "Ask a Consultant Panel" (Moderator - Bob Baker): Conner, Lambden, Word, Cahoon, Jabali, and Ron Macklin

Location

Freescale Bldg-A Conference Center at 7700 W. Parmer Lane, Austin - Map

Registration

Cost for this workshop: $20/$30 IEEE members; $25/$35 Public; In Advance/At Door.

Seating is limited. Please RSVP by April 16

Please pay at the event with cash or check to ”IEEE-CTS.” No Credit Cards please.

Please register by filling in the form below and emailing back to Bob Baker at: rjbakeratx@austin.rr.com

**********************************************************************************

Registration Form for IEEE Consultant Workshop on April 23, 2010

Name:____________________ _____________________ Company/Org:________________________

Email Address:_________________________________ Position:___________________________

IEEE Member: Yes / No *Will you like to join IEEE? Yes - will get the $20/$30 rate.

Speakers and Panelists Biographies

Christine Lambden and Casey Conner

Christine Lambden and Casey Conner are the authors of two books that relate to consulting: Everyday Practices of Extraordinary Consultants (2008) and Extraordinary Interviews (2009). They are also the founders and primary instructors at ConsultingStance.com, an online community and training resource for consultants. They have a combined total of more than 35 years in the consulting industry and their advice is based on personal experience in the trenches as consultants, clients, and consulting firm owners.

Darrell Word

Dr. Darrell R. Word, PhD, PE is an electrical engineer with extensive experience in both academia and industry. He has a particular strength in math and physics and underlying principles of science and engineering; and this includes a strong background in electromagnetics. He also has substantial knowledge and experience in mechanical engineering and electro-mechanical systems. Dr. Word has practiced extensively in the areas of instrumentation, analog circuits and systems, data acquisition, signal processing and control systems. A diverse technical knowledge has also enabled a professional practice in several other disciplines, including RF Systems, Antennas, Radio navigation, electrical power engineering, and electrical geophysics. He is a Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Texas. His principal focus is on professional engineering and consulting for industry, and some teaching as an adjunct professor in the ECE department at UT-Austin (presently not teaching), and with occasional work as an expert witness for selected legal cases in which he can help.

Andrew Cahoon

Andrew Cahoon's formal education includes a BS in Computer Engineering (Univ. of Illinois), an Executive MBA (Univ. of Oregon), and Lean training (Toyota, Porsche, McKinsey). Most of his career has been in high technology working in development and management roles for firms that include AMD, Intel, Synopsys, Freescale/Motorola and other established firms along with startups such as PowerPrecise (acquired by Texas Instruments) and ETA Systems (acquired by Control Data Corporation) in roles from IC Design Engineer to Director of Engineering. In the past year, he has started Clarum Group LLC to focus his energy on a passion for process improvement with other kindred spirits. In his spare time, he enjoys family activities and doing volunteer work with youth robotics organizations in the Austin area. He has been married for 30 years and has two children.

Abdul Jabali

Abdul Jabali is the founder and chief business consultant at Interconnected Business Services, LLC. He brings with him over fifteen years of experience in business analysis gained in fields that include environmental, internet, and telecommunications. His experience in business analysis is supplemented by years in project management and business process development.

Ron Macklin

Ron Macklin brings a solid career and an excellent track record spanning over 30 years in the high tech industry working for a Fortune 500 company in the areas of equipment design, safety, and ergonomics. From 2000 to 2008, he held the position of Member Technical Staff, Product Ergonomist, a corporate level position within Applied Materials, Inc., the world's leading supplier of semiconductor manufacturing equipment. Today, as the principal at R. Macklin & Associates, an independent consultancy, Ron builds upon his successes and experiences gained as an internal consultant during his tenure at Applied Materials, applying proven techniques, and remaining committed to supplying safe, value-added solutions for his clients.

Why Marketing Matters

March 2010
Topic: Why Marketing Matters
Abstract: "If I build it, they will come" is a common philosophy among developers-turned-entrepreneur. And yet, it's a one that doesn’t work. Alora will discuss the changes that have occurred in online business over the past decade, and why they mean that marketing really does matter -- as much as development.
Presentation: Why-Marketing-Matters-For-Geeks.pdf
Speaker: Alora Chistiakoff
Speaker's Bio's: Alora Chistiakoff, Principal and Co-Founder, The Indigo Heron Group, Inc, has spent more than a decade working in ecommerce, web development, and online marketing in both professional services, and in-house enterprise environments. Her strong technical and marketing background has been put to good use by clients such as Playboy, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Norm Thompson, Keds and JetBlue Airways.
Date & Time: Wednesday, March 24, 2010 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the meeting day for 2010: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Cloud Computing

February 2010
Topic: Cloud Computing.
Abstract: Cloud computing seems to mean everything! We'll talk in specifics about how application development and delivery models are changing based on new "cloud" commercial models. We'll also explore how the plumbing behind the curtains is changing to reflect these new models.
Speaker: Rob Hirschfeld
Speaker's Bio's: Rob Hirschfeld is a Software Architect, Electric Vehicle driver, Agile evangelist and entrepreneur. Rob's has held a variety of roles for local start-ups (including holding patents for cloud computing in 2001) and now works for Dell as a "Cloud Solutions Architect." He has also been involved in creating car integrated, geo tracking for the iPhone.
Date & Time: Wednesday, February 24, 2010 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the meeting day for 2010: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Professional Certifications: How They Help Your Career

January 2010
Topic: Professional Certifications: How They Help Your Career.
Abstract: In today’s competitive job and business market, everyone is looking for an edge. With over 200 certifying bodies and 1000’s of certifications, it is difficult to know what is in demand, what industries want which certifications, or if you even need a certification.
Speaker: Dean Bushmiller
Speaker's Bio's: Dean Bushmiller of Expanding Security has navigated the certification market for over 10 years, guiding fortune 100 companies, the military, and certification organizations. He has designed certifications for vendors and vendor neutral organizations. He has written over 1200 hours of courseware and taught certifications to 1000’s of professionals. Expanding Security is an Austin-based company specializing in security training for business architects, C-level management, and security network managers.
Date & Time: Wednesday, January 27, 2010 : networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the meeting day for 2010: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Holiday Social and Networking Event

December 2009
Date & Time: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 (Please note this meeting date is one week earlier due to Christmas): Networking and Socializing from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Topic: Holiday Social and Networking Event
Abstract: You are invited to share an evening with your fellow consultants and enjoy some holiday cheer. CTCN will provide the snacks. You buy your favorite beverages.
Location: Sherlock's Baker Street Pub, 9012 Research Blvd. Austin, TX
Directions: Southeast corner of Burnet Road and US-183/Research Blvd.
Cost: None/cash bar
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Renewable Energies: Promises and Issues

November 2009
Abstract: This presentation will primarily focus on wind and solar with a mention of several other alternatives.
Speaker: Jules Campbell
Speaker's Bio's: Jules Campbell is a wind power and renewable energy advocate, speaker and consultant. He holds a BSEE from Washington University in St. Louis, a MSE in Energy Systems from The University of Texas at Austin, and is currently pursuing a PhD. His organization memberships include: American Wind Energy Assn (AWEA)as an Advocate; Texas Renewable Energy Industry Assn (TREIA) as an Individual serving on policy committees for wind and concentrating solar; IEEE Sr. Member of PES, PELS and SSCS. Jules is retired from Motorola/Freescale Semiconductor where is was a Fellow of the Technical Staff, Science Advisor Board Associate (SABA), Distinguished Innovator (10 patents), with a total of 22 US patents issued.
Date & Time: Wednesday, November 18, 2009 (Please note this meeting date is one week earlier due to Thanksgiving): networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the new meeting day for 2009: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Building and Managing Your Authority as a Consultant

October 2009
Abstract: Consultants come in the door at a new client with a certain level of authority automatically attributed to us. What can we do to maintain that authority? How do we balance authority with the need to connect and build relationships within the client organization? This presentation will offer some tips and advice, along with stories from our own experience (good and bad), to help you manage your Authority during an engagement.
Speakers: Christine Lambden and Casey Conner
Speakers' Bio's: Christine Lambden and Casey Conner are the authors of two books that relate to consulting: Everyday Practices of Extraordinary Consultants (2008) and Extraordinary Interviews (2009). They are also the founders and primary instructors at ConsultingStance.com, an online community and training resource for consultants. They have a combined total of more than 35 years in the consulting industry and their advice is based on personal experience in the trenches as consultants, clients, and consulting firm owners.
Date & Time: Wednesday, October 28, 2009: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the new meeting day for 2009: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Building Relationships to Support Your Personal and Career Growth

September 2009
Abstract: It's often said that it's not just what you know, it's who you know. Scott Ingram will discuss the importance of relationships when it comes to getting ahead and present some simple strategies you can use immediately to start building your own professional network.
Speaker: Scott Ingram
Speaker Bio: Scott Ingram is the Founder and CEO of NetworkInAustin.com, the premier networking site for professionals and executives in Central Texas. With 10 years of experience as an entrepreneur, expert networker, and sales executive, Mr. Ingram now shares his passion for connecting people by helping others learn to develop their relationship-building and networking skills. An alumnus of Leadership Austin, Mr. Ingram's work has been featured in the Orange County Register, Rotarian Magazine, Austin American-Statesman and Austin Business Journal.
Date & Time: Wednesday, September 23, 2009: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the new meeting day for 2009: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Foresight in the Time of Simplicity, Complexity and Chaos

August 2009
Abstract: What does foresight mean in today's environment? How do manage differently if the environment is simple, complex or chaotic? These and other questions will be answered by Paul Schumann's provocative discussion.
Speaker: Paul Schumann
Speaker Bio: Paul Schumann is a futurist and an innovation process consultant. He is the president and co-founder of Glocal Vantage, Inc. He is the founder and past president of the Central Texas Chapter of the World Future Society. He is a member of the advisory boards of the Marketing Research Association and Austin Community College's Center for Community-Based and Non-Profit Organizations. He is also active in Texas Forums and Extreme Democracy.
Date & Time: Wednesday, August 26, 2009: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the new meeting day for 2009: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

From Employee to Entrepreneur

July 2009
Abstract: Do you have an idea for the next insanely great product or service? Are you having a hard time figuring out how you can step away from your current gig to launch your venture? Or perhaps, you have recently found yourself without a tech-sector job, and want to give entrepreneurship an honest try? Kevin Koym of Tech Ranch Austin will discuss how a successful engineer/consultant can become a successful entrepreneur.
Speaker: Kevin Koym
Speaker Bio: Kevin Koym is Founder and CEO of Enterprise Teaming LLC, an Austin business incubator. Kevin is also Chief Architect of Bootstrap Austin, a 600+ member entrepreneur community, and has founded two other entrepreneur networks in Austin in 2002 and in 1997, as well as building technology entrepreneur networks across the countries of Mexico and Chile. For more information, see https://www.techranchaustin.com.
Date & Time: Wednesday, July 22, 2009: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the new meeting day for 2009: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Introducing the TriTrack

June 2009
Abstract: Using an advanced transportation concept and how to implement it on a worldwide scale—both bottom-up and top-down—to approach the antiquated transportation spectrum using the semiconductor business and technology model, how do we improve our lives by more fully utilizing energy, creating less pollution, and ending traffic congestion?
Speaker: Jerry Roane
Speaker Bio: Jerry Roane is inventor of the TriTrack and ZoomHydro transportation systems. He is currently the CEO of Roane Inventions Incorporated and holds a BSEE from UT Arlington. He has been awarded 19 patents including medical devices, real-time driving monitor for teen driving, semiconductor die-stacking processes and computerized credit cards.
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 24, 2009: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the new meeting day for 2009: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Consultant Workshop

May 26, 2009
Abstract:

The IEEE Central Texas Consultant's Network and IEEE Technology Management Council Austin chapter are excited to announce a workshop titled "How to Become a Successful Consultant".

The target audience is NOT JUST Engineers or Engineering Managers! Any consultant--established or new--who wants to be more successful and to network with other consultants will benefit. Individuals considering joining the consulting field will also benefit greatly from this workshop.

Agenda:
1:30 - 1:55 Registration and Networking
2:00 - 2:05 Introduction - Kai Wong/Doug Russell
2:05 - 2:45 Consultant 2.0 - Pat Goodwin
2:50 - 3:30 Networking to Find Your Leads - Tommy Chiodo
3:30 - 3:45 Break
3:50 - 4:30 Qualifying and Prioritizing Your Leads - Bob Davis
4:35 - 5:15 The Art of Consulting - Darrel Raynor
5:20 - 6:00 Panel: Pat Goodwin, Darrel Raynor, Carol Sheehan, Leslie Martinich.
Location:

Freescale Semiconductor, 7700 W. Parmer, Austin TX, Building A, Main Auditorium; map (PDF).

Cost and Registration:

The cost of this workshop with advance registration is only $20 for current and future IEEE members and $25 for others; $35 at the door.

Biography of Speakers and Panelists:

Tommy Chiodo has been a career counselor/consultant for 13 years and prior to that spent 13 years in sales in the high-tech industry. The combination of those two careers has provided him with a unique perspective on the most difficult sell of all: the selling of one's self. Tommy's area of specialty as a career counselor is the art of networking where he takes a psychological approach to marketing one's self through the development of personal and professional networks that is effective for both job seekers and consultants.

Bob Davis is principal of simple.sales.strategy based in Austin, Texas. Davis specializes in helping small businesses structure and create a simple and sustainable plan for action to increase revenue and margin. In his practice he brings 27 years of sales experience, executive sales management and street proven strategies that drive results. Davis has guided sales teams with a simple measurable process that creates sustainable results, supporting them with creation of letters, scripts, emails, accountability and practical strategies to move prospects to customers, existing accounts to growth and marginal accounts to improved profitability. Prior to launching his consulting practice, Bob has held VP, National VP positions for Consolidated Graphics, Cenveo and successful independent manufacturing firms.

Pat E. Goodwin, CPC has over 20 years experience as a manager/leader, trainer, facilitator and consultant.  Her company, Pat Goodwin Associates (< https://Associates.com >) specializes in coaching individuals as they explore career options, identifying ideal work preferences and preparing for next steps. She has solid expertise in writing resumes, coaching clients when "Preparing for the Interview", and networking in the community. She has facilitated many, many workshops on the various topics related tocareer transition. Pat has a BA in Management from Concordia University in Austin, Texas and is a Certified Personnel Consultant. Most recently, Pat served as the Managing Consultant for Drake Beam & Morin's Austin office.  She is the former owner of Austin Career Consultants, Inc and former partner of Career Consultants Temporaries. She has been active in the business community for a number of years having served on various boards.

Darrel A. Raynor, PMP, MBA is a senior technology executive, consultant, and turnaround specialist with over twenty years leadership experience streamlining operations,systems, people, and projects. He increases margin and profit, anddecreases organization friction internally and externally withcustomers, vendors, and partners. His positions include Managing Director of Data Analysis & Results, Inc. (< https://www.DataAnalysis.com >), Interim COO / CIO / VP Operations, Director of Project Management Program at St. Edward's University Professional Education Center, Founder of Austin PMO Roundtable (with the ATC), and Director of The HeliOS Project (< https://www.heliosinitiative.org >).

Leslie Martinich, Principal Consultant at Competitive Focus, provides education and consulting services in engineering leadership, engineering ethics and innovation management. With more than 25 years of experience as a software professional, she has led teams at IBM, Compaq, Novell, Vignette and several startup companies.  She serves asthe lead faculty member at the Engineering Leadership Institute at the University of Texas at Austin.

Carol Sheehan has over two decades of experience in software development and managementand is currently a Principal Consultant for Borland Software. After spending the first half of her career writing code and managing weapons systems and linear accelerator software, she moved into the consulting world to help customers take a value-focused and pragmatic approach to improving how they manage and develop software. She has experience in applying many industry standard models and standards but advocates forbusiness value and common sense to be the key improvement drivers. Customers she has advised include a range of large government, telecommunication, financial, and automotive corporations all the way to small product development shops. While her expertise covers the full lifecycle spectrum from requirements to test/release management, she is most passionate about the areas of organizational change management and portfolio, program and project management and has a special interest in building and managing PMOs.

Managing Stress in a Down Economy

April 2009
Abstract: Our current economy is causing many people to experience elevated levels of anxiety and stress. In this talk, we'll discuss the impact of stress on our minds and bodies and we'll learn tools that help us access calm and positive mental and emotional states that help us handle the challenges we face in the most effective manner.
Speaker: Chris Douglas
Speaker Bio: Chris Douglas is a consultant, coach and trainer and his areas of focus include Leadership, Conflict and Stress. His clients include IBM, AMD and governmental agencies. He holds a Masters Degree in Spiritual Psychology from the University of Santa Monica.
Date & Time: Wednesday, April 22, 2009: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the new meeting day for 2009: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Is Real Estate a Good Investment for Engineers?

March 2009
Abstract: Watching the national news, we can see a pretty grim picture of the real estate business. This session will address the greater Austin area market as a unique entity. What are the long term trends? What determines if a metropolitan area is in a buyers' or sellers' market? How can one purchase property with a self-directed IRA? How can one purchase property below market? This session will also address lessons learned from the properties that the Farrell team flipped.
Speaker: Susan Meredith
Speaker Bio: Michael Farrell worked for 27 years in the Semiconductor Products Sector of Motorola primarily in leadership positions. While there he conducted business in 15 different countries and become certified as a Project Management Professional. He retired from there in 2003 and began helping out his wife, Anita in her real estate business and obtained a Texas real estate license in 2004. Besides working with buyers and sellers, he also flipped some properties doing everything from Competitive Market Analyses to pulling weeds. Michael writes a monthly e-newsletter and Deal of the Week.
Date & Time: Wednesday February 25, 2009: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the new meeting day for 2009: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Green Living, Green Building and Green Collar Jobs

February 2009
Abstract: There are six key areas and three crucial support areas that are critical to the success of a global energy solution.  Green collar jobs and new business opportunities abound. In addition, changes in our habits and households will save us money, save energy, and help the environment. This session will address how each of us can take action now to have a bright energy future, and move away from the gloom, doom and information overload of global warming, the energy crisis and the economy.
Speaker: Susan Meredith
Speaker Bio:

Susan Meredith is the author of Beyond Light Bulbs: Lighting the Way to Smarter Energy Management, a complete and comprehensive framework in layman's terms while giving concrete examples of how you can contribute and benefit.  Susan is also founder of HumanExcel, a corporate educational firm based in Austin, Texas . As an engineer and MBA graduate with expertise in business process improvement, Susan helps organizations improve efficiencies, reduce wastes, and save energy. She has taught and mentored over 600 Process Improvement projects, including those with measurable impacts exceeding $1Million.

While at IBM, Susan received a Management Excellence Award and a key Technical Award. Through it all, Susan observed and explored how the laws of nature, such as stress, momentum and dynamics apply to everyday business and human relationships. Susan brings her research on human energy to the task of improving organizational and global energy.

For more information see https://www.beyondlightbulbs.com

Date & Time: Wednesday February 25, 2009: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
(Please note the new meeting day for 2009: 4th Wednesday of the month.)
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Anti-counterfeiting technologies

January 2009
Abstract: Despite attempts of existing technologies, the problem of counterfeit products and documents persists. Advanced capabilities of counterfeiters have thwarted earlier attempts to solve the problem. Also, many existing solutions have either shown security flaws or require an infrastructure build-out. In addition to representing a significant cost to industry and brad owners this presentation will highlight some of the more problematic areas in which counterfeiting effects everyone's lives and will touch on some of the solutions being offered or developed.
Speaker: Jay Fraser
Speaker Bio:

Jay Fraser is a technology entrepreneur with strategic planning, new business development, marketing and technology transfer and commercialization background. He is President of Tracer Detection Technology Corp., a company involved in document security, brand protection, and separately, covert tracking technologies. It is completing commercialization of its anti-counterfeit solution, and is continuing its work with the Department of Defense to enhance its chemical track, trace and locate system.

In 2008, he presented a paper on his company's anti-counterfeit solution at the 2008 IEEE International Conference on Technologies for Homeland Security and was the keynote speaker at the Fall 2008 meeting of the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC) on the subject of Technology Transfer - Lessons Learned from a Small Business Perspective.

He holds an MBA from Adelphi University and a BA from New York University.

Jay also writes articles on US Domestic Security, policy implications and technologies used in the War on Terror at ThreatsWatch.org, the public web site of the Center for Threats Awareness.

Date & Time: Wednesday, January 14, 2009: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Engineering Overview of Intellectual Property

November 2008
Abstract: an engineering overview of intellectual property, including patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets and related issues
Speaker: Bob Hunter
Speaker Bio: Bob is a consultant in standards, conformity assessment and accreditation. Bob was a Patent Engineering Specialist at the Philco Corporation for 13 years and has lectured and publicized on patent matters, including a presentation on the patent system at the IEEE Consultants in Austin several years ago.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.
Note: The Consultants Network held elections at its November meeting, and the new officers for 2009 are:
Chairman: Kai Wong
Vice-chair: John Carlsen

Data Backup: Easier and Cheaper than You Think

October 2008
Speaker: Chris Baker
Speaker Bio: Chris Baker is a system administrator with ten years of experience. He has implemented and upgraded backup strategies in several environments, and has spoken on anti-spam strategies.
Date & Time: Thursday, October 9, 2008: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

BIG Broadband & Gigabit to the Home

September 2008
Abstract: Understand the application possibilities and product design implications from the pending bandwidth Exaflood, which is enabled by Fiber-to-the-Home and Gigabit speeds (BIG Broadband). This presentation examines the capabilities of network alternatives like wireless and concludes that even 100 Mbps is not enough for a National Broadband Objective. And with a Gigabit objective, we can discuss bandwidth deployment obstacles and status and Internet issues facing the next administration.
Speaker: Wayne Caswell: technologist, futurist and marketer with Dell, IBM, Siemens and CAZITech Consulting
Speaker Bio: Wayne knows the benefits digital technologies can have on society and the challenges of adopting them. He's currently exploring options adjacent to the PC industry - in market sectors with higher growth and more impact, like Broadband & Wireless Internet, Web 2.0 & Cloud Computing, and Pervasive or Green technologies. Wayne's 30-year IBM career progressed from punch card and computer operator through programming and systems engineering, and into marketing, product planning, and market strategy. He has a BS degree in Technology Management from American University and is a member of the Austin Wireless Alliance, Continental Automated Buildings Association (CABA), Telecom ThinkTank, and the World Future Society.
Date & Time: Thursday, September 11, 2008: networking at 6:30 p.m., program from 7:00 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Roundtable Discussion

June 2008
Abstract: Give us a five-minute presentation on your most interesting project.
Speaker: All who attend
Date & Time: Thursday, June 12, 2008: networking at 6:30 p.m., program from 7:00 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Disaster Relief: Plan Before It Happens

May 2008
Please note that this month's meeting was postponed from May 8 to May 22.
Speaker: John R Purvis III
Speaker Bio: PE, Sr. IT Specialist, Mid-Tier Unix Server Support, and BNSF Security Focal, IBM Global Technology Services, Strategic Outsourcing
Date & Time: Thursday, May 22, 2008: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Directions: Westbound access road of 290E, just east of IH 35
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is at optional extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Beyond the PC – 30:30 Vision(s) of Computing

April 2008
Abstract: With a historical look at the past 30 years of personal computing, and a futurist's look at the next 30, Wayne Caswell applies different perspectives in a talk that will be thought provoking, controversial, and filled with outlandish predictions that will likely be proven way too conservative.
Speaker: Wayne Caswell
Speaker Bio: A technologist, futurist and marketer with Dell, Digital Home consulting, IBM, Siemens, FCC's Consumer Advisory Committee, BIG Broadband advocacy and CAZITech Consulting, Wayne knows the positive effect digital technologies can have on society and the challenges of adopting them. He is exploring options adjacent to the PC industry – in market sectors with higher growth and more impact, like Broadband & Wireless Internet, Web 2.0 & Cloud Computing, and Pervasive or Green technologies. Wayne's 30-year IBM career progressed from punch card and computer operator through programming and systems engineering, and into marketing, product planning, and market strategy.

He has a BS degree in Technology Management from American University, and is a member of the Austin Wireless Alliance, Continental Automated Buildings Association (CABA), Telecom ThinkTank, and the World Future Society.
Date & Time: Thursday, April 10, 2008: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Personal Futuring

February 2008
(joint meeting)
Abstract: The speaker, a graduate of the school of Studies of the Future at the University of Houston, conducts research into the methods of personal futures. He presents an easy-to-follow methodology and tools such as scenario planning, probability, impact analysis, and life-cycle mapping for analyzing and assessing trends and creating scenarios of the future. He also provides information on strategies that you can use to achieve your goals. He provides a table of life stages and the characteristics of that stage of one's life. He discusses six foreknown forces that appear in every person's life and that influence your actions that will in turn affect your future.

To prepare for this meeting, download the Personal Futuring Workbook, a great resource to help you plan your own future.

Light refreshments will be served. For more information, see the TMC Austin Chapter website
Speaker: Verne Wheelwright
Sponsoring Chapters: Technology Management Council, Women in Engineering (Austin Chapter), Education Society, and Consultants Network
Date & Time: Tuesday, February 12, 2008 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Location: National Instruments, 11500 N. Mopac Expy Bldg C, Room 1S13, Austin, TX
Cost: no charge
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux

January 2008
Speaker: Thomas Cameron, Red Hat
Date & Time: Thursday, January 10, 2007: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Mobile Computing

December 2007
(plus annual election of officers)
Speaker: Rob Roberts
Date & Time: Thursday, December 13, 2007: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Tomorrow's Email Systems – A Crystal Ball

September 2007
Abstract: A survey of the field of competing communication systems vs. today's protocols e.g. POP3, IMAP4, LDAP, SMAP and SMTP, with consideration of their convenience, anti-spam robustness, security and future importance
Speaker: Chris Baker, consultant
Speaker Bio: Information Technology specialist with major interest in networking, A+ Microsoft Professional Certification
Date & Time: Thursday, September 27, 2007: networking at 6:00 p.m., business and program from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

High Performance Low Power Cacheless Computer System with Deterministic Power Management

August 2004
Abstract: A cacheless computer system comprising a central processing unit (CPU) and a high speed transition buffer interacting with different computer system resources such as address controller, main semiconductor memory and input output devices by means of plurality of system buses. The transition buffer contains starting memory locations of each jump or branch location of the program. When a branch or jump instruction is encountered by the CPU, it fetches the starting locations from the high speed transition buffer executing at CPU speed. When multiple instructions are executed from the transition buffer, enough time is available to the address controller to access the remainder of the branch or jump program located on the slower, low power, low cost DRAM type memory. The program then continues to be executed from the parallel blocks of memory pre-fetched and available on parallel memory blocks without access time requirements until the program is completed or a next jump or branch instruction is encountered. The size of the program that can be executed without interruption can be the size of the entire main semiconductor memory. The system also works on multiprocessing system where cache coherency problems are eliminated. Time critical real time applications are more deterministic, Digital signal processors (DSP) for real time applications are able to implement larger programs without cache miss and latency problems. A new compiler is required to compile the program for the unique requirements of this architecture. Timing characteristics of the implementation is understood well in advance at the compile time.
Speaker: Emanuel Shah, independent consultant
Speaker Bio: Emanuel Shah has been working as independent consultant for several years in the area of computer architecture, CPU design, ASIC design and methodology flows and communication systems.
Date & Time: Thursday, August 12, 2004: networking at 6:30 p.m., program from 7:00 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Thermal Storage versus Energy Costs

July 2003
Abstract: Utility rates for a Building are often determined by peak electrical demand. This peak load may only occur for a few hours in August, but it sets the rate for the entire year. Thermal storage has useful in reducing or even eliminating peaks.

A brief history of the techniques used in Japan, Canada, and the U S will introduce the available methodology. The development and performance of a large office building will be presented. This award-winning design has unique architectural as well as engineering features. In conclusion, current trends will be discussed.
Speaker: David G. Kilpatrick, P.E.
Date & Time: Thursday, July 10, 2003: networking at 6:30 p.m., program from 7:00 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

How to Avoid Semiconductor Failure

June 2003
Abstract: When the physics of failure mechanisms are understood, reliability can be imporved by how we use or design semiconductors. Semiconductors can fail because of heat, voltage (electric fields), current (magnetic fields), humidity or temperature cycling. Some examples will be shown and discussed.
Speaker: Bill Thorpe, P.E., co-founder of Executronics
Date & Time: Thursday, June 12, 2003: networking at 6:30 p.m., program from 7:00 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Future Air Traffic Management Operations and Equipment

May 2003
Abstract: The FAA has been investigating various operational improvements and conducting flight tests. Satallite communications and GPS based satellite navigation are still expected to be integrated into the existing air traffic control (ATC) network. A summary of the original approach as well as the latest status and adjustments will be presented.
Speaker: Ron Schroer, Editor-in-Chief of IEEE Aerospace and Electronic System Magazine
Date & Time: Thursday, June 12, 2003: networking at 6:30 p.m., program from 7:00 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Principles of SW Redundancy and Its Challenges

April 2003
Speaker: Vola Ray, Advent Networks
Date & Time: Thursday, April 10, 2003: networking at 6:30 p.m., program from 7:00 p.m.
Location: China Star Restaurant, 6134 Hwy 290 E, Austin TX
Cost: $5.00 minimum charge for the restaurant. Supper is optional at extra cost.
Reservations: Not required. All interested parties are invited to attend.

New Technologies, New Ventures

March 2003
Abstract: David and Jack will discuss their new venture, eklectICally, a consulting organization focused on the accelerated deployment of Products based on System-on-a-Chip (SoC) technology. Additionally, they will give a general overview of the methodologies, technologies, and flows used for SoC Design with a new design language called SystemC.
Speaker: David Black and Jack Donovan of eklectICally, Inc.
Speaker Bios: David and Jack have together over 42 years of experience designing and verifying digital systems using ASIC's and FPGA's for well known companies (e.g. ROLM, Tandem Computers, Apple Computer, Synopsys).
Date & Time: Thursday, March 13, 2003: networking at 6:30 p.m., program from 7:00 p.m.
Location: Red Lion Restaurant, Austin, TX, located at the north east corner of IH-35 and 290E

Small Business Counseling (SCORE) & Internet Marketing

February 2003
Abstract: SCORE volunteers have been counseling small business entrepreneurs, for no fee, since 1964. The SCORE Chapters in Texas (Austin, San Antonio, and others) can provide advice and perspective on a number of business challenges. We will give an overview of SCORE and the services we provide our communities. One technique small businesses have been leveraging is the Internet. We will also discuss what SCORE volunteers have found out about successful web sites and how to use the Internet as a "business" tool.
Speaker: Christy Neill of MaximICER LLC and Robert Rowen of Piquero Insights Inc.
Date & Time: Thursday, February 13, 2003 : networking at 6:30 p.m., program from 7:00 p.m.
Location: Red Lion Restaurant, Austin, TX, located at the north east corner of IH-35 and 290E
Note: The Consultants Network held elections in early January, and the new officers for 2003 are:
Chairman: Robert Spiegel
Vice-chair: Paul Alesu
Secretary/Treasurer: Ken Rice

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