Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/297333
Faces of Technology Juan Vaquerizo Advanced Simulation Research Inc. | www.ASIMR.com President Education: B.S. in Aeronautical Engineering, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University; B.S. in Computer Science, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Company: Headquartered in Orlando, Advanced Simulation Research Inc. designs, develops, integrates and manufactures advanced technology solutions to satisfy government programs, and commercial product cost and performance requirements. Juan Vaquerizo could not imagine a career in modeling, simulation and training in the 1980s. Back then as an engineering stu- dent at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, video games were limited in graphics and capability, plus personal computers did not exist – an important compo- nent of the industry today. Decades later, he leads Advanced Simulation Research located in Orlando's Central Florida Research Park as president and founder. The company specializes in research for industry giants, such as L-3 Communications, and develops technology to improve products and gain a competitive edge in the marketplace. One project in particu- lar is the Dismounted Soldier Training System (DSTS) created for the Army. DSTS includes a light-weight pack worn by the soldier, plus hel- met-mounted goggles that transport the user into a virtual world of end- less training environments. Soldiers stand on a four-foot diameter rubber pad at the center of a training area and communicate with members of the squad using a built-in headphone and microphone. Disabled weapons are used for authenticity during the virtual exercises. Simulated scenarios include entering a building under enemy fire, calling for close air support after a mortar attack and quickly adjusting tactics after a soldier is wounded in varying landscapes, such as the jungle, desert or mountains. Vaquerizo built the first proto- type system along with other part- ners. The military has almost 400 systems placed throughout the world. "Live training with tanks, Hum- vees and fighter planes is enhanced by DSTS allowing for more robust preparation before deployment," said Vaquerizo. "Included in robust training is the capability to review a simulated mission for strengths and weaknesses of a squad. Operators can identify movements and tactics as a whole – something that is not always possible with live training." Vaquerizo spent years piecing together each aspect of DSTS. His focus on connecting varying technology is what drives his passion for his work. "We have a limitless potential for new technology," he said. "I am fascinat- ed with new programs, tools and information that drive this industry, and read as much as I can to adopt new ideas in my work. The best part of my job is figuring out how to get 'technology A' to work with 'technology B' and create something new." florida.HIGH.TECH 2014 61