Oshkosh Inspired Tech To Advance Innovation In Aviation Systems

When one of the most innovative companies in the world comes back from Oshkosh -- in awe -- at the innovation they've witnessed, you know that the world of sport and general aviation have more going for it than many might think. These days, GE Aerospace comes to Oshkosh to stay inspired and look for the next big idea... and if there's one thing that GE knows... its BIG IDEAS.

In 2010, GE was on site to look at and discuss electric propulsion technologies since, "it's an exciting time to be in electric power" -- according to Chet Fuller, President of GE Civil Aviation Systems. GE's research and development capabilities are extensive, and include over 2,800 researchers and employees at GE's four global research facilities estimated to entail over $1 billion in research spending each year. UDRI employs over 400 researchers whose focus includes aero propulsion, energy, materials, and mechanical systems.

GEAE was also at Wittman Field, this year, to do business. Among the activities that took priority in 2010 was the official signing of an agreement between GE Aviation and the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI). The signing took place in the GE Aviation Learning Center, which was dedicated this year to energizing innovation in electric aircraft. In talking with ANN about the program, Chet Fuller expressed GE's confidence that electric aircraft are going to play a major role in the future of aviation. "Innovation is a core competence of aviation and our nation. This initiative between GE and UDRI is going to create the most modern lab for aircraft systems in the world."

When probing why GE selected UDRI as its partner, GE's Fuller described a number of factors that included the State of Ohio's leadership and support of industry, support from the voters as evidenced by approving the Third Frontier Program and UDRI's track record in producing results. GE's alliance with academic research centers is not new. "If we hire from the university system, we must also invest in it", said Fuller. Proximity to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and its Air Force Research Labs (AFRL) was also identified as an additional consideration in GE's decision to locate in the Dayton region.

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