At the end of April, employees representing the Office of Facility Management from the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center (MMAC) and the William J. Hughes Technical Center (WJHTC) for Advanced Aerospace met in Atlantic City, NJ, at the WJHTC to exchange insights into each of the facilities’ operations. The William J. Hughes Technical Center was recently renamed in May of this year, to the William J. Hughes Technical Center for Advanced Aerospace to better reflect their role in research and development, as the FAA continues to test new aviation technologies.
The meticulously planned visit was to aid in collaborative activities and share best practices. Team members from MMAC attended to learn about the WJHTC’s extensive operations and infrastructure. The visit commenced with a detailed "Center Operations Inside the Fence" briefing, establishing a foundation for what would become an in-depth tour.
Day 1: The Office of Facility Management (AMP) team visited the vital facilities that form the backbone of the Center’s infrastructure operations. This included a tour of the Central Utilities Plant, the Water Treatment Facility, the Main Electrical Substation, and several Environmental Superfund projects.
Participants gained an in-depth understanding of the operational intricacies and challenges facing these critical infrastructure domains. Additionally, the delegation explored the Atlantic City Upper Reservoir and the associated water infrastructure, which encompasses two reservoirs, twelve wells, and the Pleasantville Water Treatment Plant. These components are essential in providing water to approximately 37,000 Atlantic City, NJ residents and 113,000 visitors at peak times, emphasizing their significance in the Center’s mission.
The Office of Facility Management (AMP) team also had the opportunity to tour several of the tenant facilities, including the Federal Air Marshals. This visit provided an insightful glimpse into their rigorous training programs and featured live demonstrations within simulators. The New Jersey Air National Guard’s 177th Wing facility tour, led by Commander Colonel Derek Routt, included a hands-on, detailed presentation of an F-16C Falcon, including its deployed weaponry. Furthermore, a guided tour of The Transportation Security Lab showcased advanced technology in airport security, which prompted discussions about the future of aviation security.
Day 2: The Office of Facility Management (AMP) team went on a guided tour of the Center’s advanced laboratories and research facilities. The tour began with the Traffic Flow Management System Lab, where the team gained insight into the sophisticated systems that are aimed at enhancing airspace efficiency and safety. The Unmanned Aircraft Systems lab provided a glimpse into the future of drone technology and its integration into the National Aerospace System. Further, the Spectrum Engineering Lab offered a detailed examination of electro-magnetic compatibility, including a vehicle demonstration emphasizing the importance of electronic systems’ seamless operation within aircraft.
MMAC’s team then visited the National Pavement Test Facility, where they observed the rigorous testing procedures that ensure safer and more efficient airport surfaces. This was followed by a visit to the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Research Facility and a hands-on tour/demonstration of their Firefighting-High-Performance Research Vehicle. The tour concluded at the Cockpit Simulation Facility/Vertical Flight Aviation Simulation Technologies, where team members viewed the latest simulation technology, and gained insights into cockpit design and vertical flight challenges and advancements.
In summary, the second day of the visit provided an unrivaled exploration into the array of research and development efforts that support the WJHTC’s mission to enhance the safety, security, and efficiency of the Nation’s Aerospace System.
Reflecting on the visit, the MMAC and Technical Center’s Facility teams celebrated the opportunity for meaningful dialogue and the sharing of best practices. This interaction underscored the enduring partnership and mutual dedication to advancing aerospace safety and innovation. The visit highlighted the great collaboration, operational excellence, and forward-thinking approach that characterize both Centers, paving the way for ongoing cooperation and shared achievements in the future.
