Modeling and simulation industry can spur our economic recovery

(Op-Ed, Daily Press, Dec. 28, 2008)

Gov. Tim Kaine's proposed state budget will require plenty of belt- tightening in Hampton Roads, but there is some good news for the region. The governor wants to maintain funding near its current level for Old Dominion University's Virginia Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Center (VMASC), and his strategy makes perfect sense.

The relatively new industry of modeling, simulation and visualization (MS&V), is the kind of economic development that can speed Virginia's recovery during challenging economic times. Currently, more than 125 engineering graduate students at ODU are conducting research and studying at VMASC, gaining the qualifications they need to fill jobs in a variety of businesses and industries throughout Hampton Roads.

Dana Dickens is the president and CEO of Hampton Roads Partnership.
http://www.dailypress.com/news/opinion/dp-op_vmasc_1228dec28,0,4852037.story