The 2024 Department of the Air Force Technology Transfer and Transition (DAFT3) Annual Summit, held from August 13-15, 2024, at the Basic Research Innovation Collaboration Center (BRICC), marked a pivotal moment for technology transfer professionals across the Department of the Air Force (DAF). This year’s event, orchestrated by Rachel Bankowitz, brought together a diverse array of technology transfer and transition (T3) stakeholders—including Air Force personnel, contractors, and other key figures—to forge a path forward in T3 strategy.
Setting the Stage for Innovation
The summit kicked off with a dynamic welcome from Scott Aughenbaugh, Air Force Research Laboratory T3 Director, who provided a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in T3. Emphasizing the need for better training and the establishment of best practices, Aughenbaugh highlighted the vital role of Partnership Intermediary Agreements (PIAs) and introduced new guidance in relation to them. The day’s agenda was packed with engaging activities, including a teambuilding exercise where attendees played a lively game of "Heads Up," and a briefing from Dr. Kevin Geiss
Dr. Kevin Geiss, Director of the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR), delivered a thought-provoking keynote via Teams. Dr. Geiss praised the T2 University program and emphasized the need for data through Defense Tech Transfer Information System (DTTIS). His talk highlighted AFOSR's role in linking the Air Force with global academic institutions and showcased the success of the T3 program and BRICC metrics. He also discussed future plans, including hiring a new Chief Engineer and enhancing innovation tools, while stressing the importance of basic research in anticipating future challenges.
“We are in global scientific competition every day,” said Dr. Geiss. “Don’t be myopic on today’s threats. Basic research can predict tomorrow’s threats.”
Navigating the Future of T3
Stephen Lukowski spoke about the importance of advanced manufacturing and materials programs, stressing that outreach is critical for successful tech spinouts. His insights were complemented by Amy Thomson’s update on the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC) and its upcoming national meeting in May 2025, which will include significant training opportunities and updates to the Green Book. AnnMarie Martin emphasized the ongoing development of new resources like the PIA Greenbook App and a suite of training programs designed to enhance tech transfer practices.
The keynote speaker of Day 2 was Ms. Kristen Baldwin, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Science, Technology, and Engineering, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force. With a focus on integrating system engineering into decision-making and tracking engineering risks, Ms. Baldwin championed innovation and strategic partnerships with U.S. universities and small businesses. She highlighted the Air Force’s commitment to digital engineering, modular standards, and Agile methodologies to streamline technology transitions. Her address emphasized the strategic priorities of leveraging domestic industry, enhancing collaboration with industry consortia, and aligning research efforts with key operational imperatives like Next Gen Air Dominance and Space Order of Battle. Ms. Baldwin's forward-thinking vision set the stage for a new era of efficient, integrated, and impactful technological advancements in the Air Force.
“In order to keep pace with our competitors, we have to be more willing to mature and adopt technology.” – Ms. Kristen Baldwin.
Unveiling Key Technologies
One of the standout moments was the briefing on the upcoming Defense Tech Transfer Information System (DTTIS) tool. Oswaldo Delacruz provided a preview of this cloud-hosted system, which aims to streamline and automate tech transfer workflows. The system promises to be a game-changer by improving data collection and reporting capabilities, addressing initial data gaps, and offering a new way to track tech transfer actions and inventor progress.
The Tech Connect and SME Connect platforms were also showcased, offering a streamlined way for innovators to connect with subject matter experts across the Air Force and beyond. These tools are expected to significantly enhance collaboration and facilitate quicker responses to technology inquiries.
Highlighting Success Stories and Challenges
A panel discussion with representatives from the DAF, Army, Navy, and DHA emphasized the ongoing challenges and successes in T3. Key issues included the need for better communication of tech transfer assets and success stories. The discussion highlighted how successful T3 practices and agreements can be more effectively shared and measured, with a focus on qualitative outcomes and the impact of agreements on overall mission success.
ORTA Training
The final day of the summit was dedicated to coaching sessions and exploring new strategies for T3. Led by Pam Kallio, Rachel Bankowitz, Chuck Figer, and Jack Owsley, the sessions focused on training the Offices of Research and Technology Applications (ORTAs) and leveraging new technologies like DTTIS and Tech Connect. The conversation also touched on the need for increased professional development and innovative approaches to tech transfer.
Special Shoutouts
The DAFT3 Annual Summit was a resounding success thanks to the dedicated efforts of the DAFT3 Team and the exceptional support from BRICC.