House Armed Services Chairman Visits NC State
Last week, Representative Mike Rogers, who chairs the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, toured NC State’s Centennial Campus to examine cutting-edge research and technology aimed at tackling issues within the nation’s defense manufacturing sector.
Rogers remarked on his travels, stating, “I’m always fascinated to find out about what different people and different institutions are doing.” His visit followed a concerning trend highlighted by the Department of War, which reported that the defense manufacturing base has contracted by approximately 90% over the past three decades due to the consolidation of major defense contractors, with over 40% lost in the last decade alone from supply chain disruptions.
Engagement with NC State Leadership
The two-day visit to North Carolina concluded with Rogers exploring NC State’s advancements in protective gear, nonwoven materials, and additive manufacturing technologies. He was accompanied by notable figures including NC State Chancellor Kevin Howell, Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation Krista Walton, and Dean of the Wilson College of Textiles David Hinks, among other faculty and industry partners.
During the visit, Chancellor Howell provided insight into NC State’s historical ties to the military, tracing back to its establishment as North Carolina’s first land-grant institution in 1887. Howell also highlighted future initiatives like the recently introduced $480 million, ten-year FutureTex program and the Defense and Security Institute. He stated, “It was an honor to welcome House Armed Services Chairman Mike Rogers to NC State and showcase the important work of our faculty, staff, students and partners.”
Exploring Innovative Technologies
Rogers participated in roundtable discussions and presentations led by Walton, where he engaged with partners and researchers from the Centennial Campus who are involved in areas such as hypersonics, nanofabrication, wide bandgap semiconductors, and advanced textiles. Walton expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to host Rogers, emphasizing the significance of witnessing the research firsthand.
The delegation toured facilities including the Milliken Textile Protection and Comfort Center and the Center for Additive Manufacturing and Logistics, where they observed advanced manufacturing capabilities. The discussions during the visit highlighted NC State’s recognized engineering program and its commitment to developing innovative technologies crucial for the defense industry.
Concluding Thoughts on the Visit
At the end of his visit, Rogers reflected on the importance of the work being done at NC State. He noted, “This work is all important,” underscoring the value of the research efforts aimed at enhancing national security and supporting military personnel.
Source: NC State University
