Avatar recently participated in Maryland Robotics Day, hosted by the University of Maryland. The event, geared toward industry and government guests, is designed to acquaint potential partners with the University of Maryland’s many robotics research projects, faculty, students and facilities. It was a great learning experience for everyone in attendance, and some exciting connections were made. We had the opportunity to tour many of the robotics labs, view some live robotics demonstrations, and chat with many graduate students and professors about their exciting research developments.

Avatar is proud to announce that several of our outstanding employees have recently received awards for their exemplary performance under the KLXS contract. Please see below for a brief description of their achievements!

Nick Kindred (KLXS Certificate of Recognition)
In appreciation of his outstanding leadership and support to the Spacecraft Offline Processing Element EOM. Functioning as the Element Operations Manager Deputy, Nick prepared the team for the Preliminary Design Review, leading or overseeing such products as GOPDb Drops 5 and 6; 3-point estimates; resource loading; contingency planning; requirements development; detailed validations and objectives; and stakeholder expectations development. As the Deputy, he led the weekly Spacecraft Offline Processing Element Operations working group and drove many actions to closure with sound technical insights that required constant team coordination. Nick’s efforts stand as an example of excellent quality products and services and are a direct result of his can-do attitude and dedication to the program goals and objectives.

Fred Simmler (KLXS Certificate of Recognition)
In appreciation of Fred’s outstanding leadership in the emulator/simulator team developing Tri-Program Bi-Lateral Exchange Agreements. The analysis and guidance he has provided is recognized as critical to supporting GSDO verification planning and execution. Additionally, he has enhanced technical integration efforts through effective cross functional team collaboration while providing solution based recommendations after identifying non-compliances to the C3R technical baseline and gaps in C3R requirements. Fred’s achievements are a direct result of his exceptional ability to offer and implement effective solutions and indicative of his dedication to the GSDO mission.

Wayne Obenour (Space Flight Awareness Award)
For outstanding leadership and technical excellence in integrating Space Launch System (SLS) Launch Vehicle requirements, design and operations planning with the launch complex ground systems in support the Agency’s Exploration Program.
​

ongratulations to our KLXS Program Manager Jim Gray! He has been awarded the GSDO Steady at the Helm peer award. Jim won this award for his ability to perform well under pressure and keep the team focused in a crisis. We appreciate Jim for his great leadership, diplomacy and respect for the team, and we are so happy he has been recognized for these great qualities.
​