Joint Base Langley-Eustis will soon have a new innovation lab for its airmen.
The “Spark Cell” gives airmen the opportunity to create innovative solutions for their respective jobs in the Air Force, similar to “Shark Tank,” according to the news release.
“Our Innovation Lab will help empower Airmen to solve problems and improve readiness,” said Col. David Lopez, 1st FW commander. “Tech. Sgt. Daniel Caban, 1st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron crew chief, developed a concept for F-22 Raptor Portable Magnetic Aircraft Covers, which came as an improvement to a standing maintenance practice.”
The lab is open 24 hours a day, equipped with WiFi hotspots, 3D printing, soldering, coding stations and electronic robotics gear.
In addition, the military members can work with “top problem solvers” in their field, including academia and the government.
“This is a direct result of the Spark Tank program and a perfect example of local problem solving, something the innovation lab hopes to encourage and facilitate,” Lopez added.
Caban and innovation cell leaders are hopeful that PMAC will be selected as a finalist for the 2020 Spark Tank Competition during the Air Force Association conference in Orlando, Florida Feb. 26-28, according to the news release.
The new lab’s ribbon cutting ceremony is at Joint Base Langley-Eustis on Dec. 17 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
