July 2, 2024 — Southwest Research Institute has received the Supporting Friend of IEEE Member and Geographic Activities (MGA) Award in recognition of its “long and outstanding support of IEEE through paid volunteer time, membership subsidies, direct financial support, and in-kind contributions.”
The Supporting Friend of IEEE MGA Award recognizes individuals, firms, or divisions of firms that support IEEE and its members in achieving its goals.
“On behalf of Southwest Research Institute, I would like to express our appreciation to IEEE MGA for this recognition,” Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Walt Downing, P.E. said. “We have had a collaborative relationship with IEEE and its global community of technical professionals for many decades. Together, we share a common mission of advancing technology to benefit humanity.”
This award recognizes companies that encourage volunteerism through their practices. SwRI was recognized for supporting its staff to travel and participate in IEEE meetings; hosting IEEE meetings; promoting membership in IEEE among its staff; and offering Institute resources and services for IEEE activities.
“We consider membership and participation in IEEE to be an important part of the professional growth of our staff members who work in the research and development arena,” Defense and Intelligence Solutions Division Vice President Nils Smith, P.E., said. “SwRI IEEE members have helped to raise the prominence of SwRI in our community and elevate the STEM focus in San Antonio.”
IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization with 430,000 members worldwide, is chartered under the longer name, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. However, because membership extends beyond engineers, the organization uses the shorter name, IEEE, pronounced “I triple E.” Members include engineers, scientists, software developers and other technology professionals.
Smith and Downing serve as past chair and chair, respectively, of IEEE’s Region 5, Lone Star Section, representing Central and South Texas. Chris Camargo, executive director of SwRI’s Tactical Aerospace Department, is vice chair.
For more information visit Electronics and Automation or contact Mike Thomas, +1 210 522 2255, Communications Department, Southwest Research Institute, 6220 Culebra Road, San Antonio, TX 78238-5166.