Carnegie Mellon University

US Secretary of Defense Robert O. Work at the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC).

November 11, 2016

NREC hosts United States Deputy Secretary of Defense

(photo courtesy of the U.S. Department of Defense)

The Deputy Secretary of Defense Mr. Robert O. Work and the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Mr. Stephen P. Welby visited NREC on June 9, 2016 to better understand “breakthrough” ideas that can have a transformative impact on U.S. defense operations. Mr. Work has identified autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, human computer interaction as among the core technology areas that will shape the future of U.S. technological superiority—just as nuclear weapons and the capabilities achieved through precision electronics provided leadership in previous periods. 

While at NREC Mr. Work and Mr. Welby attended demonstrations of mapping robotics, GPS-Free positioning, mine detection, and NREC’s CHIMP robot. Additionally, he was briefed on NREC’s current programs that are being performed for DARPA’s Ground X-Vehicle Technology program, the Automated Coating Removal System (ACRS) that was developed for the US Air Force, and the Stress Tests for Autonomy Architectures (ASTAA) program. Finally, NREC and CMU representatives led a discussion with Mr. Work regarding advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning. 

Throughout their visit Mr. Work and Mr. Welby were exposed to the breakthrough ideas that are generated at NREC and our unique capabilities to bring these ideas to reality. We were honored to receive this opportunity to discuss our groundbreaking efforts with Mr. Work and Mr. Welby.