ConnectED - Spring 2014

This is a quarterly e-newsletter designed to connect Ohio higher education to the business community. In this publication, you will learn about the efforts of the Ohio Board of Regents to move students from the classroom to the workforce; and about research and idea development happening within the University System of Ohio that is benefiting Ohio businesses.

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ConnectED: Connecting Higher Education to Business | Volume 2 Issue 2

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Ahead of the Game A look at how Shawnee State University has become a leader in digital simulation and gaming

Ohio a World Leader in Hypersonic Research and Aircraft Development University collaboration aims for Mach 7 air travel

Business Enterprise Program Connects Food Service, Entrepreneurship & Higher Ed in Ohio A look at creative vending and food service on campuses

From DJ to MDCommunity College is a vital stepping stone for a budding doctor

RED BORDERShe calendar says it’s spring, and while we are at the beginning of a new season, we are nearing the end of another school year. Soon, students will be graduating, and many will be entering the workforce. What better time to introduce a new issue of

ConnectED, and show how our colleges and universities are working with the business community to ensure that new graduates will have job opportunities here in Ohio?

In this issue, we’ll learn about one of the country’s leading video game technology programs and take a close look at the research that is going into hypersonic air travel. We also have an interview with an Owens Community College student who hopes to have an Ivy League medical education in his future.

Enjoy this issue of ConnectED, and let us know about any stories that you’d like to see in a future issue.

T

John CareyChancellor, Ohio Board of Regents

15Butler Tech Means Business Career-Tech center responds to the needs of the region’s business community

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Ahead of the Game

A look at how Shawnee State University has become a leader in digital simulation and gaming

A rendering courtesy of GE Aviation.

When completed, this will be the combustion laboratory at Evendale where the UC researchers will work on emissions technology.

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Video games have become such an integral part of today’s entertainment industry that colleges and universities are taking notice. They are creating programs that put students on a dedicated

path to a career designing video games.

At the forefront of the emerging field of study is Shawnee State University (SSU). Located in Portsmouth, the public university offers several degree programs specifically tailored to students interested in video game design.

The first is a bachelor’s degree in gaming and simulation, a computer science degree with less emphasis on hardware and a larger emphasis on graphics and simulation. Within a game company, the gaming and simulation staff writes the “backbone” of a game.

The second option is a degree in gaming arts, a Bachelor of Fine Arts program with a concentration in 3D modelling and texturing. Those with this degree create the look and feel of the game and its characters.

“Having the two degrees that work collaboratively on projects, especially senior projects, really gives students a taste of ‘real-life’ development,” said Jason Witherell, a faculty member in the engineering technologies department at SSU.

Lastly, SSU offers a minor in game design that is offered to majors in the aforementioned degrees. In a game company, these would be the “idea people” – those who envision what the game should be about and how it will play.

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Nationally RankedThe Princeton Review – one of the nation’s best-known education services companies – issued its fifth annual report naming the undergraduate and graduate schools with the best programs for students to study video game design. SSU was ranked 11th on the list of the Top 25 Undergraduate Schools to Study Game Design for 2014.

Witherell said he believes the students’ access to cutting-edge technology such as virtual reality headsets, 3D scanners and printers, and production-quality software tools is one of the main reasons SSU has been ranked so high on the list.

“We’re also a member of the Apple iOS Developer University,” Witherell said, referring to a free program designed for higher education institutions looking to introduce iOS development into their curriculum. “This allows students to learn how to make apps in some of our classes.”SSU has a rigorous and demanding program. Students who are able to finish the four years are well equipped to enter the field and thrive.

“The game design program teaches students how to learn so they’re able to more quickly adapt to new technology than someone that’s just trained to learn specific software packages,” Witherell said.

Program Graduates SSU’s game design program graduated its first class in the spring of 2008. Since then, there have been 52 graduates of the program. Of those, nearly 48% have gone on to traditional business application development jobs; 14% have gone on to gaming-related jobs; 8% have advanced to graduate school in computer science; and 10% have gone

on to R&D jobs (the major employer is Yost Engineering in Portsmouth).

Sam Bushman, a 2011 graduate, has worked for several independent game companies over the past few years, but now is a server programmer for ArenaNET, makers of Guild Wars 2, which is considered one of the best massively multiplayer online games of 2012 by many reviewers. Bushman said, “Shawnee State doesn’t just teach their students how to write software, but also how to break down complex problems and clearly communicate project difficulties. When working on sophisticated software systems, like massive online games, these tools are not just helpful, they are essential.”

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“Shawnee State doesn’t just

teach their students how to

write software, but also how to

break down complex problems

and clearly communicate

project difficulties.”

Inside a classroom at Shawnee State University

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The IndustryIn a 2013 report by the Entertainment Software Association, it was found that 58% of Americans play video games. Consumers from around the world reportedly spent more than $20 billion dollars on the video game industry in 2012.

With the remarkable increase in demand for games on mobile devices and online games segments, the global video game market looks to continue to enjoy steady growth. Shawnee State University has created a great pathway to put students in careers in the fast-paced gaming industry.

For more information about Shawnee State University’s digital simulation and gaming program, check out:

www.ssugames.org

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Ohio a World Leader in Hypersonic Research and Aircraft DevelopmentSay you’re a manufacturer in Columbus that needs to deliver a planeload of cargo to China… in about 90 minutes. You might be out of luck now, but research currently being conducted at several Ohio universities aims to make hypersonic air travel a possibility by the year 2035.

The Hypersonic Vehicle Technology Development Program, led by the Air Force Research Laboratories (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, is collaborating with researchers at both The Ohio State University and the University of Cincinnati to help lay the groundwork for building an aircraft capable of speeds up to and beyond Mach 7 (seven times the speed of sound). Along the way, this research is helping to develop new technologies that can be applied to a variety of industries.

Although current rocket-propelled vehicles used for space travel can fly at speeds up to Mach 23, the metal and other materials used to build those ships can be used only once. Currently, the fastest reusable aircraft in operation, which can both take off and land on a runway, travels at Mach 4 speed. In order to make a hypersonic aircraft a

reality, the AFRL needs to develop materials and technologies that currently don’t exist. They’re doing this with the help of collaborative research centers at a number of universities nationwide, each focusing on individual parts and pieces of the overall project. One of these companion centers is the AFRL - University Collaborative Center in Structural Sciences (CCSS) located at The Ohio State University, under the direction of Dr. Jack McNamara.

The CCSS at Ohio State will collaborate with the AFRL for the next five to seven years, with the goal to “provide analysis methods to reasonably assess the state of a ‘representative’ hypersonic (Mach 5-7) structural configuration.” Simply put, researchers in the Multiphysics Interactions Research Group (MIRG) at OSU will develop the technology needed to test structures and components intended for use on a hypersonic aircraft.

According to Dr. McNamara, “the CCSS is part of a broader hypersonics focus at OSU.” He and five other OSU faculty members are also conducting hypersonics research funded by the Air Force on multi-physics simulation, fluid-structure interaction, fluid dynamics, and combustion. The CCSS at OSU will also offer

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Model of current computer analysis to simulate aerodynamic conditions and environmental stresses - Photo: NASA

grants to 10-20 students who, alongside faculty members, will conduct research projects pertaining to smaller components of the larger hypersonics program.

The University of Cincinnati also plays a role in the project through research currently happening in its Structural Dynamics Research Laboratory (SDRL). The goal is to utilize current technology at the UC-SDRL to develop new validation methods that the AFRL can use to compare tests with model predictions of various small components and structures in order to evaluate structural integrity before actually building the final structure. As a side bonus, the research taking place within the SDRL assists students to prepare for other industries that require similar validation based component testing, such as automotive and aerospace.

Every aircraft experiences pressure from at least five “loads” (environmental stresses): structurally, acoustically, thermally, the fluid flow, and the combined effect of them all. These loads require analysis to determine how they interact with one another and how they react individually. In order to accurately predict material failure points based on these loads, current research is focused on the area of verification and validation (V&V) of computational models for materials, structures and components.

Dr. Randall Allemang, a senior collaborator hired by the U.S. Air Force to provide advice to the internal researchers at the AFRL, has been utilizing his expertise in the dynamic testing of structures and in particular, the testing of aircraft structures, to assist the program for the past five years.

The AFRL plans to test the V&V models developed through Allemang’s work with the UC-SDRL this summer. Allemang describes his work as “developing the methods used to take a very large amount of analysis predictions and a very large amount of associated measured data and come up with a way to say that the model safely predicts what will happen, and that the model is not overly conservative. If the model is overly conservative, it is less likely to be able to fly in the extreme conditions of Mach 7.”

As the universities and Air Force continue along their current research path, they’ll gradually create and analyze the new materials and technologies needed to build a hypersonic vehicle. Both McNamara and Allemang believe their research will impact numerous technologies, and could have a significant impact on the future of air travel in general.

But don’t rush out to book your 60-minute flight from Ohio to Hawaii just yet! Even by 2035, the research will most likely have created only the materials and technology necessary to start building a Mach 7 vehicle. And once it’s finished, it most likely will be used for military, rather than commercial, applications.


The F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet breaking the sound barrier - Photo: AP

Business Enterprise Program Connects Food Service, Entrepreneurship & Higher Ed in Ohio

The late night snack is a staple of the college experience. Staying up late to (hopefully) study and looking for a jolt of sugar or caffeine, the typical college student often turns to the trusty vending machine. Regardless of the hour or day, the student can satisfy that craving, often without leaving the building.

Vending machines have been around for a long time; the first U.S. machine was built in 1888. And aside from providing that instant snack food gratification, vending machines also offer an opportunity for economic development and jobs for individuals with disabilities across Ohio.The Business Enterprise Program (BEP) administered by Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) connects food service, entrepreneurship, and higher education in Ohio. This federally funded program offers people who are legally blind franchise-like opportunities to manage cafeterias, convenience stores, snack bars, and vending machines in state, federal, and county buildings.

State universities and colleges, however, also host BEP businesses. In fact, BEP has operators on more than two dozen campuses in Ohio, with more than 500 vending machines offering everything from candy and snacks to cold beverages, coffee, and even frozen food.In this way, state and federal law create the opportunity for BEP to assist entrepreneurs in

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launching and sustaining a career in food service management. A BEP manager is the sole proprietor of a business and hires and supervises his or her own employees. There are no wages or payments by a state, federal or county government; as with any other business, income is tied to profits.

Specialists from OOD’s Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired (BSVI) do provide management consulting services to BEP managers to help their businesses succeed. BEP funds cover the costs of the equipment, initial inventory to establish a business, equipment repairs, and other ongoing support. A monthly charge collected from facility managers partially pays for these investments.

BEP also requires prospective business owners to complete a training program that includes online classroom and on-site training, with instruction that includes food service safety and sanitation, merchandising, customer service, management skills, BEP regulations, bookkeeping, restaurant law, equipment maintenance, and first aid. On-site training gives potential owners actual work experience with a licensed manager who operates a BEP business. After training, potential owners must pass a final exam to become licensed and then apply for an available BEP facility.

Today, BEP is responsible for establishing and supporting over 100 blind independent business owners throughout Ohio.

The University of Cincinnati (UC) is one example of how this partnership works to provide convenience and jobs on a university campus. BEP has been providing vending services at UC for decades and has approximately 120 machines deployed across 68 vending sites on multiple campuses. Five operators and three staff members manage the services.Pallavi Patel, assistant vice president of campus services operations at UC, said they work closely with the operators to serve the university community.

“The BEP operators have been good partners with us,” Patel said. “Having a good business manager

is critical as we work closely to improve processes and product offerings to meet the needs of students. Whether it is a smooth payment and refund process or moving to more healthy options, we have been able to partner with BEP to adapt to changing needs.”Dave Bragassa, one of the five operators at UC, said the program has had special meaning for him.

“The Business Enterprise Program is a great opportunity for the blind and visually impaired. It has really been a life-changing process for me to be able to expand my income, expand my possibilities, and have the opportunity to take on more responsibility,” he said.

In addition to the familiar vending machines, the program has also evolved and adapted in light of food service trends and, as an example, now offers a “Micro Market” concept and other options. Based on a convenience store-like format, the Micro Market carries a variety of hot and cold food items, including breakfast sandwiches and freshly ground coffee.

In an increasingly mobile and round-the-clock economy, creative vending and food service operations represent more than just the chance for a student to grab a late night snack; they are an asset to the higher education community. BEP leverages that asset to provide business opportunities and jobs for individuals with disabilities and a boost to Ohio’s economy.

To learn more, or discuss potential opportunities for your campus, contact Mindy Duncan, deputy director of the Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired, at 614-438-1256.


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A former Army combat medic-turned-disc jockey, 38-year-old Shermaine Hutchins knows how important a community college education can be on the path to a career. His time at Owens Community College in Toledo is a vital stepping stone to what may well be an Ivy League medical degree. Hutchins, who plans to transfer to Bowling Green and has Harvard and Yale in his sights, talks about how his path from DJ to MD led to Owens and what lies ahead in his future. Q. Share a little bit of your background, and talk about how, in 2012, you made the decision to return to school.

I grew up in a single-parent household in the low-income area of Daytona Beach, FL. I served in the military as a combat medic for five years, which included a tour of Nicaragua where I was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal. I also worked as a radio disc jockey for 10 years. My broadcasting career eventually brought me to Toledo, where I began thinking about my future as well as my family’s future. I knew that eventually, I would need to transition into a career that was long-term and secure. Q. What affected your decision to attend Owens Community College?

Cost and convenience; when I decided to return to school, I had not yet filled out any financial aid forms, so initially I had to pay for my education out of pocket. The cost and payment options available

Shermaine Hutchins From DJ to MD

at Owens allowed me to make monthly payments that were manageable. After obtaining my certification, I will look for employment at area hospitals as a nurse technician. Q. How did you get interested in the medical field?My mother was my first exposure to healthcare. She worked as a nurse’s aide for a large portion of my early years. When I enlisted in the Army National Guard, I knew I wanted to work in a field that would allow me to transition from military training to civilian employment. Q. How did you hear about the Summer Medical and Dental Education Program at Yale University?

By chance. As I became more knowledgeable about what is required to enter medical school, I realized that I would have to begin applying to summer research and/or enrichment programs to bolster my application and resume. My Honors Advisor, Dr. Russell Bodi, thought I should include top-tier programs in my search. I came across the program through a Google search. When I thought about Yale, Harvard and other Ivy League programs, I assumed that an older, low-income community college student would not be welcomed. I was wrong. Not only was I accepted as one of the oldest participants in the program, I also excelled. I was asked to moderate a Yale School of Medicine discussion panel and was presented with the “Outstanding Participant Award” at the closing ceremony of the program. I have made many lifelong connections with many Yale administrators, professors, physicians, scientists, and students. They all now serve as mentors helping me navigate toward becoming a physician. Q. What “real world” experience have you gained while at Owens, and how do you plan to continue that once you transfer to Bowling Green State University?

I am currently employed as a cardiovascular nurse technician at St. Luke’s Hospital in Maumee. I am vice president of Phi Theta Kappa, which will help provide funding toward my transfer to Bowling Green. For me, Owens allowed me to integrate myself into the learning environment without becoming intimidated


“I have been fortunate to have Owens

advisors who were knowledgeable

about my career path and maintained

relationships with Bowling Green

advisors.”


by the younger students. I now feel fully confident that I will transfer to Bowling Green seamlessly and continue to thrive. Q. Has the process of transferring your credits from a two-year school to a four-year school been an easy one?

Yes! I have been fortunate to have Owens advisors who were knowledgeable about my career path and maintained relationships with Bowling Green advisors. This allowed them to help me choose courses that would fulfill my requirements not only at Owens for my AS in biology but also at Bowling Green for my BS in biochemistry. Q. What plans do you have after earning your bachelor’s degree?

After obtaining my bachelor’s degree I plan to matriculate directly into medical school. Again, I will be aiming for the stars, so Yale, Harvard, Columbia, Johns Hopkins and others can expect to see my application next year. Q. What would you like to be doing in the next five to 10 years?

In 10 years I expect to be working as a physician scientist. I want to practice in a field that will allow me to travel to various countries that are in need of additional health care. However, my priority will be the underserved communities around where I live. Q. What advice would you give someone considering returning to college as an adult?

Aim high! As adults, I believe we begin to lose our spirit of adventure and willingness to take chances. If you see a career goal for yourself, set up a plan and follow it. The world is a different place now, where nontraditional students are becoming the traditional students. In May, Shermaine will attend an all-expense-paid conference at Harvard University before traveling to Bethesda, MD to begin an internship at the National Institute of Health (NIH). “Most importantly,” he adds, “I will be completing my final requirements for my AS in biology at Owens Community College via online courses.”

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Butler Tech Means Business

Butler Tech is listening and responding to the needs of the region’s business community. Through Butler Tech’s Industrial Maintenance Technology program, businesses with a need for skilled employees in this field have an ongoing relationship with Butler Tech instructor Russ Bowles. Bowles has more than 35 years of experience in the field and has developed strong relationships with the business community. Word of his expertise has spread, and now additional businesses are contacting him with workforce needs. One new company recently requested to come to the classroom to conduct mock interviews with the students in the program. Interviews help the students with employability skills and help the company screen students for potential employment. After the mock interviews, the company invited three students to interview to be full-time maintenance employees.

Butler Tech values the voice of its business and industry partners, and recognizes that business and industry need to drive curricular choices to ensure that Butler Tech students have marketable skills to keep them competitive. Each Butler Tech program has a business advisory committee that reviews curriculum and makes recommendations for changes or additions. A recent example of business involvement in curricular choices is with the local MillerCoors brewery. In an exploratory meeting regarding new technologies and methods of operation, it was revealed that MillerCoors was using infrared technology to identify preventative maintenance needs on its electrical and drive systems. Training on this technology and analysis of the data resulting from the infrared reads were added to Butler Tech’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology program. Graduates of the program are placed at MillerCoors to hit the ground running, saving the company in training costs and giving a marketable advantage to Butler Tech students to be hired.



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Thank you for reading ConnectED. We appreciate any suggestions or ideas to improve this newsletter.

We welcome story ideas, links to articles of interest, and news releases.

Please send story ideas to Jeff Robinson at [email protected].

A special thank you to all of those who contributed stories and articles:

Ahead of the Game Jason Witherell, Elizabeth Blevins, Sam Bushman, Dave Todt Shawnee State University

Ohio a World Leader in Hypersonic Research and Aircraft Development Randall J. Allemang, PhDUniversity of Cincinnati

Jack McNamara The Ohio State University

Business Enterprise Program Connects Food Service, Entrepreneurship & Higher Ed in Ohio Kevin HoltsberryOpportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities

From DJ to MD Shermaine HutchinsStudent

Butler Tech Means Business Amy Waldbillig Butler Tech


Documents

ConnectED - Spring 2014