EDC Program Pairs Local Companies with NASA Expertise

Technology Docking Program continues to fuel innovation.

Space Coast, FL (August 23, 2019) – The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC) has introduced four local companies into a collaboration with NASA subject matter experts through the EDC’s Technology Docking Program.

A strategic alliance powered by the EDC and NASA, the Technology Docking Program matches Brevard companies together with NASA expertise to solve a defined commercial technology challenge. This unique collaboration fuels innovation and enhances the inventory of technologies in the Space Coast region, stimulating the local economy and ensuring Brevard County remains competitive on a global scale.

Since its inauguration in 2015, the Technology Docking Program has engaged 95 companies through direct interface with NASA representatives. Local companies such as SeaDek Marine Products, Alluvionic, GeNO LLC, and more, have benefited from this strategic partnership.

“Innovation is a key driver in today’s economy,” said Lynda Weatherman, President and CEO of the EDC. “The Tech Docking Program, which is nearing its 100th company, fuels our innovative ecosystem, leading to new business investment and opportunities on the Space Coast.”

The four companies selected to participate in the 2019 program are:

Entech Innovative Engineering
Innovative design, professional engineering and fabrication-build services of specialized systems, machinery and structures.

Falcon Power
Developer of patented motor / generator / transmission system.

Millennium Engineering and Integration Company
World-class engineering services, solutions, and products company for the space, defense, intelligence, cyber, aviation, and healthcare markets

Raider Outboards
Designer and producer of multi-fuel, submersible, lightweight outboard motors and associated parts that include military, search and rescue and commercial/retail customers.

“Fiberglass is the ideal vehicle for Entech Innovative Engineering to get into the space industry, as it has applications in aerospace, aircraft technology, architecture and transportation,” said John Marhoefer, Owner of Entech Innovative Engineering. “Our move from Orlando to Rockledge has shifted our engineering firm’s business strategy. We are picking something to develop instead of reacting to a client’s needs. We are focused on developing structural transparent and moldable composites in fiberglass. I’m excited about the opportunity to work with NASA on new fiberglass technologies because what’s currently available isn’t cost-effective enough.”

“The EDC continues to be a leader in building strategic partnerships on the Space Coast for up-and-coming technology firms seeking access to the high-tech talent and innovative mindsets in the larger firms and governmental sectors in our area,” stated Dr. Abram Walton, EDC Innovation Council Chair and Professor, College of Business at the Florida Institute of Technology. “We continue to see an increase in the rigor and quality of the applicants for the NASA Tech Docking Program and look forward to continuing to support innovation and entrepreneurship through our region.”

Companies looking to receive input from NASA can learn more by visiting the Technology Docking Program website at www.spacecoastedc.org/TechDocking

For more information about NASA and agency programs, visit http://www.nasa.gov/centers/kennedy

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About the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast
The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC) is dedicated to attracting new business and investment and expanding existing industry throughout the Space Coast, influencing change on government laws and regulations affecting economic development, promoting the Space Coast to encourage new investment, supporting efforts of Space Coast military installations, and relaying new programs and procedures to assist manufacturing and high-tech companies. The EDC is a private, not-for-profit coalition whose stakeholders are business leaders committed to the economic growth and stability of Florida’s Space Coast. Visit www.SpaceCoastEDC.org