Fellows 2021 book-20 (interactive) single pages

SYSTEMS

Principal Systems Architect –
Environmental Control &
Inerting Systems (ATA21 & ATA47)

FELLOW Young Park, Ph.D.
2018
ENTERPRISE ENGINEERING
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Ph.D., Chemical Engineering,
After two decades with the company, University of Massachusetts
Young Park’s career has focused on
the design, analysis and integration of B.S., Chemical Engineering,
complex thermo-fluid systems with Cornell University
emphasis on the use of models and
rigorous analysis techniques. Young has
been recognized with the George Mead
Medal Award, Horner Citation and the
Cassidy Award. Currently, Young is focused
on model-based engineering processes
and digital engineering.

101

MANUFACTURING
& INDUSTRIAL

Electrical Assembly

Doug Pauls FELLOW
2021
OPERATIONS
B.S., Electrical Engineering, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
University of Wisconsin Madison
B.A., Chemistry/Physics, Doug Pauls is the subject matter expert
Carthage College for cleaning materials and processes, as
well as conformal coating materials and
102 processes used for manufacturing of high
reliability electronic assemblies. His areas
of expertise include residue assessment
methodologies; chemical analytical
methods such as ion chromatography;
methods for assessing materials
compatibility and function; and a general
knowledge of materials and chemicals
used in electronics manufacturing.

STRUCTURES

Transient Dynamics

FELLOW James “Randy” Penley
2019
INTERIORS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
B.S., Aerospace Engineering,
Randy Penley specializes in the delivery North Carolina State University
of seating systems that fully comply to
regulatory and customer requirements.
Randy is the chief engineer for design in
Aircraft Seating, for which he developed a
rigorous technical review process. He has
integrated dynamic, static and FEA into
the seating and furniture development
programs, developing advanced restraint
systems to reduce human injury during
crash events and optimizing seat
structures for weight versus structural
requirements. He works with the FAA,
EASA and OEMs to bring innovation to
our customers.

103

PRODUCT QUALITY

Product & Process Quality

Dean Pepperine FELLOW
2018
MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
M.S., Engineering Management, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
B.S., Mechanical Engineering, Dean Pepperine has more than 30
Kettering University years of experience in the aerospace,
defense and automotive industries, with
104 responsibilities in design, operations,
program management and quality. He
is an advocate for Advanced Product
Quality Planning (APQP) and Production
Part Approval Process (PPAP), uses
Red-X and Six-Sigma methods to resolve
complex problems, and develops/delivers
instruction for Root Cause Corrective
Action (RCCA), Failure Mode Effects
Analysis (FMEA), Measurement Systems
Analysis (MSA) and Process Control/
Capability.

SOFTWARE

Software & Open System Architecture

FELLOW Gerry Pocock, Ph.D.
2018
MISSION SYSTEMS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Ph.D., Computer Science,
With his experience in system University of Massachusetts
architecture, Gerry Pocock designed,
developed and deployed real-time M.A., Computer Science,
software for both defense and commercial University of Massachusetts
industries. He has worked as a software
architect for companies such as Mercury B.A., General Science/Computer Science,
Computer System, Bose and General University of Rochester
Electric. Gerry’s intelligence and expertise
landed him at Collins Aerospace as a
chief engineer for the Air Force’s Open
Architecture Management program,
developing open standards for all Air
Force capabilities.

105

SYSTEMS

Subsystem & Embedded
Control System Design

Richard A. Poisson SENIOR FELLOW
FELLOW
POWER & CONTROLS 2007
M.S., Electrical Engineering,
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
B.S., Electrical Engineering,
University of Hartford With more than 37 years of experience
with the company. Rich Poisson has a
106 broad knowledge of the systems produced
by Collins and has worked in most of the
business units – both in design and as a
reviewer of products and standards. After
starting out in Electrical Design doing
sensor interfaces and analog design. Rich
now focuses on systems and applying
MBSE methods to systems with attention
to controls, requirements and analysis.
Rich also has experience in problem
solving and RCCA across the company
and actively participates in NAR reviews.

MATERIALS &
PROCESSES

Composite Materials & Processing;
Additive Manufacturing

SENIOR FELLOW Vijay V. Pujar, Ph. D.
FELLOW
2016 AEROSTRUCTURES

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Ph.D., Materials Science and Engineering,
Case Western Reserve University
Vijay Pujar’s experience and contributions
have spanned a diverse array of materials M.S., Materials Science and Engineering,
and applications. Specifically, these Case Western Reserve University
include advanced ceramics and ceramic
matrix composites, high temperature B.S., Ceramic Engineering,
creep and damage progression in Indian Institute of Technology
composites using acoustic emissions;
multifunctional nanoreinforced
composites and coatings to improve
environmental durability and damage
from lightning strikes; environmentally
green materials and processes to
eliminate materials of concern; and
additive manufacturing to produce
performance-optimized components.

107

MECHANICAL
DESIGN

Bearings & Tribology

Oliver Qiu, Ph.D. FELLOW
2014
POWER & CONTROLS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering,
Northwestern University With more than 33 years of experience
in bearings and tribology, Oliver Qui is
M.S., Mechanical Engineering, considered an expert in his field. He has
Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China been recognized for his design work,
research and dedication to performing
B.S., Mechanical Engineering, failure analysis. Oliver continues to
Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China provide his expertise to various projects
utilizing product design, design review,
non-advocate review and customer
support. Considered to be a great teacher
and mentor, Oliver actively shares his
knowledge throughout his community.

108

PRODUCT QUALITY

Process Management & Maturity

FELLOW Wes Ralph
2021
POWER & CONTROLS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
M.S., Finance,
Wes Ralph has over 20 years of DePaul University
experience in engineering, business
development, and quality, with a broad MBA,
background in the power of process DePaul University
and people. He is currently designing
the next generation of process B.S., Electrical Engineering,
management & maturity tools across University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Raytheon Technologies, and is an active
member of the American Productivity
and Quality Center. Wes is also an ACE
Practitioner since 2016 and has written
CATU courses in the areas of process
maturity and kaizen to increase employee
skill empowerment, as well as positive
outcomes for Collins.

109

MECHANICAL
DESIGN

Structures

Jihad Ibrahim Ramlaoui FELLOW
2018
AEROSTRUCTURES
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
M.S., Aeronautical Engineering,
Northrop University Jihad Ramlaoui is considered an
expert in mechanical design. Currently
B.S., Aeronautical Engineering, chief engineer of advanced design for
Northrop University Aerostructures, Jihad is responsible for
the technical maturity of new ideas and
architectures. In addition, Jihad supports
the discipline’s chief office with a focus
on engineering quality, as well as the
creation of standard work. A proponent of
the Collins Mechanical Design Discipline
charter, Jihad serves as Aerostructures’
representative on the Collins Mechanical
Design Discipline Steering Committee.

110

SIGNAL &
INFO PROCESSING

Servo Control Design and
Mathematical Modelling

FELLOW Reg Raval
2009
MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
M.Sc., Fluid Power Control Systems,
Reg Raval has more than 46 years of University of Bath, England
experience and is widely recognized
across industry and academia for flight
servo control systems. He is a Chartered
Engineer and a Fellow of the Institution
of Mechanical Engineers. Reg can model
real world systems based on many years
of practical experience, and has developed
many Fly-by-Wire servo systems for
rotary, fixed winged and missile platforms.
Reg holds many patents and has
presented papers at various institutions.
He regularly teaches at Collins Aerospace
Technical University (CATU) and is a guest
lecturer at the University of Bath.

111

SIGNAL &
INFO PROCESSING

Cybersecurity,
Product Cybersecurity

Kanwal Reen FELLOW
2019
ENTERPRISE ENGINEERING
M.S., Systems Engineering, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
M.S., Electrical Communications, Kanwal Reen is an accomplished
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute embedded controls engineer and has led
B.E., Electronics & Electrical successful programs in multiple product
Communications, lines across Collins Aerospace. Her
Punjab Engineering College, India broad technical expertise spans multiple
disciplines: FPGA design, digital design,
112 cybersecurity and systems engineering.
Kanwal has led numerous initiatives to
incorporate security into the technical and
management processes at Collins, and
engages within Collins and in the industry
to promote awareness and education
about Product Cybersecurity.

SYSTEMS

Principal System Architect –
Autonomous Systems

FELLOW Erik V. Rencs
2012
MISSION SYSTEMS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
B.S., Electrical & Computer Engineering,
Erik Rencs has been developing and Johns Hopkins University
designing electro-optical systems with
complex signal processing for more than
30 years. He has devoted his expertise
to low-power systems and perception
sensors for robotics, as well as developing
the Collins object avoidance Light
Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) that has
a complex high-performance processing
requirement.

113

SYSTEMS

Principal System Architect –
Flight Controls (ATA22 & ATA27)

John Roltgen FELLOW
2014
AVIONICS
D.Sc., Systems Science and Mathematics, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Washington University
M.Sc., Systems Science and Mathematics, John Roltgen is a Flight Control Systems
Washington University Technical Fellow within the Avionics
B.Sc., Aerospace Engineering, business. Since joining the company in
Iowa State University 1992, John has contributed to engineering
and management roles on Autopilot/
114 Autoland programs for the Boeing 737NG,
747-400 and 757/767. He helped capture
Fly-by-Wire computing positions on the
MRJ, A220 and B777X airplanes, as well
as serving as technical project manager
on MRJ and 777X. Actively involved in
autonomous flight research and new
flight control business initiatives, John
was recognized as a corporate Engineer
of the Year in 2009.

SOFTWARE

Software Proccess

FELLOW Keith M. Roseberry
2014
ENTERPRISE ENGINEERING
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
M.S., Software Engineering,
Keith Roseberry has worked in safety- Stevens Institute of Technology
critical software engineering for more
than 25 years. He led the software B.S., Computer Engineering,
development of several notable systems, University of Bridgeport
including the Integrated Vehicle Health
Management System and the 787 Electro-
Mechanical Braking System. The author
of software engineering processes, Keith
successfully deployed the Polarion ALM
system to Collins Aerospace. He continues
to focus on product line engineering,
software safety and processes/tools
enabling embedded DevSecOps. He is
active in industry working groups and
standards development.

115

SYSTEMS

Principal System Architect –
Com / Nav (ATA23 & ATA34)

Angelo Ruggeri FELLOW
2019
MISSION SYSTEMS
B.S., Electrical Engineering, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
South Dakota School of
Mines and Technology Angelo Ruggeri is an architect focused
on developing secure communication
116 solutions for the warfighter, including
operational analysis, modeling, and
simulation and design of communication
systems, waveforms/networks and
radios. Angelo has supported several
standards organizations, including the
International Civil Aviation Organization
Working Group F (ICAO WG-F) and Sensor
Open Systems Architecture (SOSA). His
current focus is developing and executing
the High Assurance Networks roadmap
for RTX working across all the Raytheon
and Collins businesses.

MATERIALS &
PROCESSES

Composite Materials and Processing

FELLOW Lamia Salah, Ph.D.
2021
AEROSTRUCTURES
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Ph.D., Aerospace Engineering (Structures,
Lamia Salah is an expert in composite Solid Mechanics, Composites),
structures, materials and processes, Wichita State University
thermoplastic and thermoset composite
material qualification, certification, M.S., Aerospace Engineering (Structures,
structural testing, design allowables, Solid Mechanics, Composites),
composite specifications and composite Wichita State University
repair. She provides consultation and
mentorship in these areas across Collins, B.S., Aerospace Engineering,
and champions composite material Wichita State University
qualification and testing continuous
improvement initiatives, and the utilization
of NCAMP material databases to reduce
cost, cert time and enable the rapid
production implementation of new
composite technology.

117

MATERIALS &
PROCESSES

Non-Metallic Materials & Processing

Jim Sampica FELLOW
2014
AVIONICS
M.S., Systems Management, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Florida Institute of Technology
B.S., Mechanical Engineering, For over three decades, Jim Sampica
University of Wisconsin has been involved with research and
development of display technology for
118 rugged environments. He has led next
generation display processing equipment
efforts and material development for high
performance cockpit displays. The optical
bonding technology developed by cross
functional teams with Jim’s experience
has been accepted as an industry
standard in most display markets,
including automotive, resulting in several
licenses. He was selected as a corporate
Engineer of the Year in 2009. Jim holds
over 35 patents and numerous trade
secrets.

SOFTWARE

Software Design & Implementation

FELLOW Jeff Schmidt
2005
POWER & CONTROLS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
M.S., Computer Engineering,
Jeff Schmidt has been working in Walden University
software reuse, platforms, partitioning,
and real-time Operating Systems. He B.S., Electrical Engineering,
has developed a real-time partitioned University of Wisconsin
operating system that allows different
safety-level applications to run on the
same microprocessor. Jeff has also
helped to create Electric Power Systems
procedures to implement Model-Based
Design in the software development
process. Jeff has also been involved
in developing Collins Product Security
Policies and Procedures.

119

PROCESS QUALITY

Material Review

Timothy E. Scott FELLOW
2018
QUALITY
M.S., Information Systems, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Capella University
B.S., Business Management, A Material Review Board subject matter
Cardinal Stritch University expert, Tim Scott has held multiple
A.S., Quality Engineering, leadership and mentoring roles spanning
Rock Valley College both mechanical and electronics
manufacturing. He is an International
120 Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) document
author and writing team member. Most
recently, Tim co-authored an industry
update to the Supply Chain Management
Handbook (SCMH) section 3.3 control of
nonconforming outputs. Tim also reviews
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)
industry aerospace standard documents
related to quality processes.

MECHANICAL
DESIGN

Propellers, THSA, Ballscrews

FELLOW Bruno Seminel
2004
MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Graduate Engineer,
Bruno Seminel leads the R&T and IP INSA de Lyon, Engineering School, France
management for Propeller Systems. With
more than 32 years at Ratier-Figeac, he
has led development on many different
types of equipment, including cockpit
inceptors, THSA, flap and slat flight
control devices and door actuators, with
propellers being his most recent focus.
He was chief engineer for the A400M
prop, which was his group’s major
program. Involved in numerous RRCA for
several Collins business units, he led the
successful implementation of technical
solutions to major in-service issues.
Bruno has helped mentor and develop
many engineers throughout his career.

121

SYSTEMS

Principal Systems Architect

Karl Shepherd SENIOR FELLOW
FELLOW
MISSION SYSTEMS 2018
M.S., Business Administration,
University of Iowa EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
B.S., Computer Engineering,
University of Arizona As a systems architect at the Platform
A.S., Electronics Engineering Technology, and System of Systems level, Karl
Hawkeye Community College Shepherd is focused on solving customer
challenges. He works externally and
122 internally to understand these challenges
and to collaboratively create innovative
technical solutions to solve them. Within
the Systems Discipline, he is focused
on open system architecture and digital
engineering. Karl is also a technologist
working across RTX to influence and
leverage emerging technology to ensure
our technical solutions are market-
leading.

MECHANICAL
DESIGN

Design Validation

SENIOR FELLOW Ashraf Sherif, Ph.D.
FELLOW
2019 INTERIORS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY D.Sc., Biomechanical Engineering,
The George Washington University
Dr. Ashraf Sherif joined Collins in 2006
to lead the Oxygen Systems group, M.A., Business Administration,
where he led the design, development Global Management,
and certification of over 20 new interior University of Phoenix,
product lines currently installed across
all commercial aircraft cabin systems. He M.S., Structural Dynamics,
developed the FAA and EASA-approved The George Washington University
Pulse Oxygen System™, and provides
technical leadership for Interiors Product B.S., Engineering Science,
and Technology roadmapping and University of Oxford
strategy. Ashraf also contributes to the
development of Collins-level roadmapping
for product technology and discipline
capability in support of the
business strategy.

123

SYSTEMS

Subsystem & Embedded
Control System Design

Adishesha Sivaramasastry FELLOW
2021
ENTERPRISE ENGINEERING
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
M.S., Engineering (Electronics & Controls),
Birla Institute of Technology & Sciences, Adi Sivaramasastry is a multi-disciplinary
Pilani, India systems engineer and expert in wireless
technology development. He is currently
B.S, Engineering engaged in developing Systems
(Instrumentation Technology), Engineering capability at the Global
Bangalore University, India Engineering & Technology Center in India,
driving technology development strategy
through TRL process leading to NPI, and
establishing an innovation culture to
create and protect intellectual property.
Adi also mentors engineers one-on-one
and at team levels on capabilities for
engaging in end-to-end product design
life cycle.

124

SYSTEMS

Certification & Validation

FELLOW Jaime Sly
2021
AV I O N I C S
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Certificate of Systems Engineering,
Jaime Sly has provided Systems Embedded Systems,
Engineering leadership for more than 15 University of Connecticut
years, working on military rotary wing
platforms at Collins, implementing tools B.Sc., Electrical Engineering,
and processes to support ARP4754A South Dakota State University
adoption at Dukes Aerospace, and leading
the certification of SmartProbe™ air data
systems on multiple platforms. She is
currently developing new technologies for
air data sensing. Jaime leads the Systems
Endorsed Practices initiative, represents
Collins through INCOSE, and is passionate
about STEM outreach opportunities.

125

MATERIALS &
PROCESSES

Surface Engineering

Blair A. Smith FELLOW
2007
ENTERPRISE ENGINEERING
M.S., Chemical Engineering, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
University of Connecticut
B.S., Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Blair Smith is the founder/leader of the
University of Connecticut Collins-wide Green Solutions Working
Group, in which he uses his industry
126 connections and 39 years of surface
finishing and corrosion experience
to direct the company to incorporate
environmentally favorable substances
into its products. Blair is actively involved
with several international committees,
teaches courses in Surface Finishing,
Design for Environment and REACh (EU
regulation for chemicals), is the author
of 10 publications and has almost 100
patents and another 25 pending.

SYSTEMS

Electrification

SENIOR FELLOW Todd Spierling
FELLOW
2021 POWER & CONTROLS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY MBA,
Columbia College
Todd Spierling provides technical
leadership in all elements of aircraft M.S., Mechanical Engineering,
electrification, including Electric Georgia Institute of Technology
Propulsion, More Electric secondary
systems, and Propulsion, Power B.S., Mechanical Engineering,
& Thermal Management Systems. Colorado State University
He supports customer technology
engagements, new business pursuits, and
company and corporate level strategic
technology planning.

127

QUALITY

Product Quality

Roger Daniel Stamm SENIOR FELLOW
DISCIPLINE LEAD
QUALITY FELLOW
M.S., Business, 2009
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
B.S., Electrical Engineering, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Roger Stamm’s experience spans
128 multiple areas, including systems design,
electronics manufacturing, program
management and embedded design.
Formerly a director of quality and of
engineering, Roger’s current focus is on
developing and deploying the Zero Defect
Plan (ZDP) process, as well as resolving
technical challenges in the manufacture
of several products. These efforts have
resulted in step changes in quality
performance across Collins, and the
development of many courses in Collins
Aerospace Technical University (CATU).

MATERIALS &
PROCESSES

Metallic Materials, Materials
Characterization, & Surface Engineering

SENIOR FELLOW Leslie Steele, Ph.D.
FELLOW
2006 MECHANICAL SYSTEMS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Ph.D., Materials Engineering,
University of Dayton
Leslie Steele is a subject matter expert
in Metallic, Materials Characterization M.S., Materials Engineering,
and Surface Engineering, specifically in University of Dayton
aluminum metallurgy, testing, design
properties and surface enhancements. B.S., Materials Science & Engineering,
Her expertise includes innovation of Wright State University
new alloys and processes to improve
performance, drive cost reduction and
improve quality. Leslie champions the use
and development of design properties and
allowables, including serving as Collins’
focal for the FAA’s Metallic Materials
Property Design Standard. She directs
several CoP and WG teams for
the discipline.

129

SIGNAL &
INFO PROCESSING

Communication, Networks & Routing

James A. “Jim” Stevens, Ph.D. FELLOW
2014
MISSION SYSTEMS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Ph.D., Computer Science,
University of Texas Jim Stevens’ area of expertise is in
system engineering and architecting of
M.S., Computer Science, military wireless communications “across
University of Texas the spectrum,” including waveforms,
protocols, radios, networks, tactical data
B.S., Physics, links and systems for VLF/LF, MF/HF,
Abilene Christian University VHF/ UHF and SHF/EHF radio frequency
bands. He has strength and interest
B.S., Math/Computer Science, in mobile ad hoc networking (MANET)
Abilene Christian University from early wireless Internet Protocol (IP)
research to design of modern military
networking waveforms such as Warrior
Robust Enhanced Network (WREN).

130

SYSTEMS

Systems Architecture

FELLOW Eric Surawski
2021
POWER & CONTROLS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
B.S., Electrical Engineering,
Eric Surawski is a system architect University of Hartford
and principal developer of the fuel tank
inerting product line. He helps lead the
technology development and strategic
planning for advanced aircraft systems.
Eric also specializes in new technology
and product development and serves
as a resource for aircraft system safety,
certification, and performance modeling.

131

SYSTEMS

Navigation Systems Architecture

Gilles Tatham FELLOW
2021
AVIONICS
M.Sc., Automation, Electronique, Electro- EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
technique & Hydraulique,
ENSEEIHT (Ecole Nationale Superieure Gilles Tatham has over 30 years of
d’Electronique, d’Electro-technique, experience in the field of Navigation
d’Informatique et d’Hydraulique de Systems and Systems architectures. He
Toulouse - France) developed the Multi-Mode Receiver (MMR)
concept in the 90s, and more recently led
132 the definition of a new innovative MMR-
centric Single Pilot Operations (SPO)
enabling Navigation architecture. Today,
Gilles is a Navigation Systems architect
and Global Technology Lead, leading
European OEMs and Research Pgmes R&T
engagement strategies, and a number of
cross domains SPO systems
architecture discussions.

SIGNAL &
INFO PROCESSING

Wireless Communication

FELLOW John Thommana
2014
MISSION SYSTEMS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
M.S., Electrical Engineering,
John Thommana is a wireless Virginia Polytechnic Institute and
communications architect responsible State University
for line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-
sight communication systems and B.E., Electronics and Communication,
waveform design. He has more than 30 Mangalore University, India
years of experience in the design and
development of commercial and military
communication systems, software defined
radios and networking waveforms. He
holds 26 granted U.S. patents in tactical
communication, spectrum management,
ad hoc networking and HF networking.
John is a member of the Institute of
Electrical and Electronics Engineers and
Wireless Innovation Forum.

133

SIGNAL &
INFO PROCESSING

ISR Signal Processing

Carlo Tiana SENIOR FELLOW
FELLOW
AVIONICS 2017
M.Sc., Optics,
University of London, Imperial College EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
M.S., Physics,
University of Rochester, Imperial College Over a 30-year career, Carlo Tiana
B.Sc., Physics, has designed and developed airborne
University of London, Imperial College vision systems for commercial and
military applications spanning the
134 electromagnetic spectrum. Holding more
than 40 patents, Carlo pioneered the
regulatory, certification and marketing
efforts that led to global adoption of these
complex technologies. Mentoring the next
generation of engineers via connections at
global universities, Carlo also is involved
in industry and government regulatory
organizations focusing on vision systems
and export reform.

SYSTEMS

Principal System Architect

FELLOW Harold G. Tiedeman, Jr.
2014
AV I O N I C S
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
B.S., Electrical Engineering,
Harold Tiedeman is a system architect Iowa State University
in our Avionics business focusing on
system of systems integration, avionics
and mission computing product lines, as
well as open systems architecture. He
is currently serving as Chief Engineer
for Collins Aerospace on the Future
Vertical Lift program, aligning technical
approaches across the business and
among the major aircraft OEMs and
the US Army. As a Fellow, Harold is
also responsible for the integrated
architectures technology portfolio
in Avionics.

135

SYSTEMS

Principal System Architect -
Connected EcoSystem

Frédéric Trincal FELLOW
2019
AVIONICS
M.S., Electrical Engineering, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INSA Lyon
B.S., Electrical Engineering, Frédéric Trincal is a lead system
Iowa State University architect for Connected EcoSystems for
commercial aviation, and also serves as
136 Airborne Connectivity technology portfolio
owner. He addresses airborne router
solutions and their ground counterpart.
Frédéric’s expertise is in air/ground
connectivity -- including cellular, Wi-Fi and
satellite, cross-domain interconnection,
cybersecurity, and hardware and software
architecture. He worked on several major
aircraft connectivity programs, including
Airbus’ A350 IMO and A320 FOMAX.

STRUCTURES

Composite Structures

FELLOW Michael van Tooren, Ph.D.
2021
AEROSTRUCTURES
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Ph.D., Aerospace Engineering,
Delft University of Technology, Netherlands
Michael van Tooren joined Collins in 2020 M.Sc., Aerospace Engineering,
as an expert in thermoplastic composite Delft University of Technology, Netherlands
materials, processes, and structures.
Prior to that, he worked for seven years 137
as Professor of Aerospace Systems
Design and Structures at the University
of South Carolina, three years for Fokker
Aerostructures in the Netherlands as a
New Concept Development Manager, and
24 years at Delft University of Technology
in multiple roles, including professor of
Systems Integration Aircraft. Michael’s
focus is innovation of aerostructures,
manufacturing equipment, materials
and processes.

STRUCTURES

Fatigue & Fracture

Paul Vanderpol FELLOW
2019
MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
B.S., Technology/Mechanical Engineering, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Ryerson University, Canada
Diploma in Aerospace For 40 years, Paul Vanderpol has worked
Engineering Technology, in the aircraft structural analysis field,
Ryerson University, Canada including wing, fuselage and landing
gear structures. He is a recognized
138 Collins-wide expert in static strength and
fatigue analysis and testing methods,
specializing in strain-life fatigue analysis
of high strength steel and titanium
alloys. Well known for developing and
documenting structural analysis methods
and guidelines, and for leading efforts to
improve analytical tools, Paul is dedicated
to mentoring colleagues and striving for
university collaboration.

SOFTWARE

Open Systems Architecture

FELLOW Levi Van Oort
2021
AV I O N I C S
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
B.S., Computer Science,
Levi Van Oort has developed open systems Iowa State University
architectures for a host of military fixed
and rotary-wing aircraft over his 20-
year career. He has a wealth of industry
experience and has contributed to the
development of multiple open system
standards efforts that drive the aviation
industry. Levi is a co-author of the
OpenGL SC 2.0 standard that has been
widely adopted by both the aviation
industry and the emerging autonomous
vehicle industry. He has chaired the
FACE Technical Working Group Graphics
Subcommittee since 2013, co-authoring
Technical Standard 3.0.

139

ELECTRONICS

Digital Electronics

William Villano FELLOW
2019
POWER & CONTROLS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
B.S., Biology,
University of Connecticut During his 30-year career, Bill Villano
has led the development of embedded
B.S., Electrical Engineering, controls for a variety of product lines.
University of Connecticut As an Electronics Integration Fellow,
Bill’s focus is on developing electronics
architectures and integrating electronic
systems components. He leads the
Electronics Architecture and Test Process
Communities of Practice and is an active
member of several SAE committees.

140

SYSTEMS

Principal System Architect – Prognostics
Health Management Systems

FELLOW Rhonda D. Walthall
2018
ENTERPRISE ENGINEERING
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
MBA,
Rhonda Walthall is an industry-recognized Pepperdine University
leader in the development of standards
and best practices for prognostics and B.S., Aeronautical &
health management (PHM). A Fellow Astronautical Engineering,
of the PHM Society and member of its Purdue University
Board, Rhonda also is a member of the
SAE Board and serves on numerous
committees. The recipient of four patents
and author of several publications, Rhonda
is a member of the MPIG, ANSI UASSC,
Purdue AAE IAC, WAI and Toastmasters.
She was recognized as Purdue’s
Outstanding Aerospace Engineer, and
received the SAE Rodica Baranescu Award
and James M. Crawford Award.

141

STRUCTURES

Composite Materials

Stephen H. Ward SENIOR FELLOW
DISCIPLINE LEAD
AEROSTRUCTURES FELLOW
M.S., Aeronautical Engineering, 2012
University of Washington
B.S., Mechanical Engineering, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
As the Collins Materials Discipline lead,
142 Steve Ward provides direction and
oversight to multiple M&P discipline
initiatives, working groups and
Communities of Practice via training
curricula and periodic discipline health
assessments. As Aerostructures’ Chief
Engineer for Composite Structures,
he provides program and R&D project
oversight for composites-related design,
analysis, materials, testing, manufacturing
and certification. Steve also is responsible
for developing composite allowables
and analysis methods, and oversight of
composite M&P specifications.

SOFTWARE

Software & Open Systems Architecture

FELLOW Terrence P. Ward
2012
AV I O N I C S
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Anne Arundel Community College
Terrence Ward is responsible for the
design, development and operational
support of Collins Aerospace’s global
aviation messaging infrastructure and
value-added applications. He has 35 years
of experience in highly available systems
architectures, including the design and
development of complex computer
systems within the aerospace industry.

143

PRODUCT QUALITY

Product Development &
Process Certification

Steven E. Webster FELLOW
2018
AVIONICS
M.S., Engineering Management, EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Western New England University
B.S., Industrial Engineering, Steven Webster has more than 30 years
Western New England University of experience designing, developing, and
deploying product and process quality
144 planning and control tools for both new
and legacy products and processes.
He actively drives the development of
common process standard work, software
solutions and training that leverages
industry best practices. As a technical
consultant on APQP, PPAP, ZDP, process
control and statistical methods, Steve also
is an active member on the IAQG AS9145
APQP/PPAP writing and
deployment teams.

ELECTRONICS

RF Engineering and Antenna Systems

FELLOW James B. West
2015
MISSION SYSTEMS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
M.S., Electrical Engineering,
James West has 44 years of experience Iowa State University
in Radio Frequency (RF) sensor systems.
He is an expert in the areas of active B.S., Electrical Engineering,
electronically scanned antenna, antenna, Michigan Technological University
RF circuit and electromagnetic simulation
technologies. His experience also includes
radar, electronic warfare, satellite comms,
communications, and navigation and
surveillance systems. James is a member
of several elite groups, including IEEE,
AMTA and ACES. He has been awarded
93 patents, published over 40 technical
papers, and received multiple internal and
external industry awards.

145

PROCESS QUALITY

Regulatory Compliance

John D. Whalen IV FELLOW
2018
POWER & CONTROLS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
M.S., Management,
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute John Whalen is the Hamilton Sundstrand
ODA Administrator and FAA Liaison.
B.S., Industrial Technology, He represents Collins Aerospace with
Central Connecticut State University industry associations, the FAA and other
national airworthiness authorities on
the development of regulatory policies
that govern our businesses. John led the
civil airworthiness team supporting the
Collins Aerospace Brexit Readiness task
force that helped prepare the company for
the ramifications of the United Kingdom
leaving the European Union.

146

MANUFACTURING &
INDUSTRIAL

Advanced Visualization Technologies

FELLOW Ryan Wheeler
2021
OPERATIONS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
MBA with Distinction,
Ryan Wheeler invents industry-leading University of Iowa
advanced visualization solutions like
Model-based Knowledge Visualization and M.S., Systems Engineering,
Virtual Prototype Modeling, the first scaled Iowa State University
deployment of VR in a mid-tier supplier.
These and others have saved Collins B.S., Engineering Technology,
programs tens of millions of dollars, Michigan Technological University
and saved our employees hundreds of
thousands of hours. Ryan has 15 years of A.A.S., Electronics,
experience in XR and app development. Muskegon Community College
He speaks globally on XR, has served as
technical lead for consortia and university
research projects, and he cofounded and
co-leads the RTX XR Community
of Practice.

147

SYSTEMS

Principal System Architect –
Vision / Strategist

Joel M. Wichgers, P.E. FELLOW
2018
MISSION SYSTEMS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
MBA, Accelerated Training
Short Course Certificate, For three decades, Joel Wichgers
American Management Association has worked to develop advanced
M.S., Electrical and Computer Engineering, Communications, Navigation and
Iowa State University Surveillance (CNS) Systems. He has
M.S., Electrical Engineering, been instrumental in developing GNSS-
Washington University based landing systems for both civil and
B.S., Electrical Engineering, military aviation that support landing at
Milwaukee School of Engineering fixed runways or on moving ships. Joel
continues to develop the next generation
148 of CNS systems by representing our
corporate interests on CNS industry
forums, and serving on multiple corporate
initiatives, including the Aviation
Rulemaking and Standards Council,
Product Cybersecurity Review Board and
Spectrum Advisory Committee.

SYSTEMS

Principal System Architect –
Prognostic Health Management Systems

SENIOR FELLOW Tom Wiegele, Ph.D.
FELLOW
2014 POWER & CONTROLS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering,
University of Wisconsin
For more than 30 years, Tom Wiegele has
worked in the development of sensors, M.S., Manufacturing Engineering,
electronics and software, beginning in Georgia Institute of Technology
consumer and automotive electronics.
He joined Collins Aerospace to develop B.S., Industrial Engineering,
sensors, including MEMS. Tom has University of Illinois
held executive leadership roles in both
engineering and technology, including
leading the Collins Connected Aircraft
initiative that brought together sensing,
communication and data analytics under
Project 4Sight, a laboratory proving
ground. Tom is responsible for Power &
Controls Digital Strategy that covers the
full product lifecycle.

149

MANUFACTURING &
INDUSTRIAL

Additive Manufacturing

Scott Wigen FELLOW
2021
OPERATIONS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
B.S., Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics,
University of Minnesota Scott Wigen is a technical and strategic
leader for additive manufacturing with
expertise that includes developing
novel additive materials, process
optimization and control, and identifying
and optimizing designs for additive. He
teaches multiple Additive Manufacturing
CATU courses and represents Collins at
FAA/EASA additive workshops, ASTM and
various industry consortiums.

150