December 03, 2009 –
Steve Jenks is excited to show the latest HIPerWall developments.
Senior executives from three Orange County technology companies visited CALIT2 earlier this week. Representatives from Microsemi, Mindspeed and WiSpry participated in a UCI pilot program dubbed “Project Neighbor.” Created by UC Irvine’s Chief Executive Roundtable (CERT) and Office of Research, the half-day program introduces companies and researchers in similar sectors to their respective interests and projects.
The delegation began the morning by taking a walking tour of the engineering and computer science quad of the UCI campus. Once in CALIT2, the group made stops at a couple of labs to see research demonstrations.
In the Visualization Lab, they were introduced to the spin-off company Hiperwall Inc. Professor Steve Jenks explained how his team’s research was commercialized and demonstrated what the many advantages are of the latest software and hardware developments.
The group had an opportunity to experience first-hand the research work in the eMedia Studio. Visitors danced in the active space created by Professor John Crawford and witnessed how technology and performing arts meld to create unique shared experiences.
Visitors experience the green screen and active space technology in the eMedia Studio.
After a coffee break, company representatives and university leaders gathered in the CALIT2 auditorium for discussion. Vice Chancellor for Research Sue Bryant welcomed the participants and set the stage.
“I want to thank you for participating in this event,” said Bryant. “I hope to learn a lot about the industry side of science, and I think this will be a great start to expanding our interactions going forward.”
Bryant and Microsemi CEO Jim Peterson, who is a member of CERT, were instrumental in initiating Project Neighbor.
“Project neighbor was similar to an experience I had as a child when I found out that my next-door neighbor had a pool table and a swimming pool,” Peterson explained. “To me that was large! Now I find out that my current neighbor has technology and business skills…just as large!”
Peterson provided an overview of his company’s portfolio along with Steve Litchfield, chief strategy officer for product technology. Ron Cates and Anil Mankar, Microsemi senior vice presidents, offered insights about their company; while Chief Operating Officer Jeff Hilbert represented WiSpry.
The company presentations were followed by brief talks from school of engineering Dean Bras, school of information and computer sciences Dean Richardson and CALIT2 Director Li.
The morning concluded with lively discussion and a light lunch.
“From what I observed, many new acquaintances were made and lots of information was shared about potential partnerships,” concluded Beth Bradley, CERT’s director.
