The National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) at Wichita State University is adding a powerful tool to support digital engineering transformation and program delivery.

A new collaboration with Siemens Digital Industries Software allows the institute to deploy the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio of software across all labs – spanning design, engineering, product lifecycle management, electrical and harness design, advanced simulation, and additive manufacturing activity.

“NIAR is excited to collaborate with Siemens in order to support industry, DoD and other strategic partners, and train the next generation of engineers and technology leaders with the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio,” said Dr. John Tomblin, WSU senior vice president for Industry and Defense Programs and NIAR executive director. “The next generation of engineers will be critical in driving digital transformation to enable a true digital enterprise – where engineering, manufacturing and electronic design meet current and future industry needs.”

The goal is to expand NIAR's digital thread and engineering capabilities, while accelerating program delivery and empowering the workforce of the future. The Siemens Xcelerator portfolio will allow companies of all sizes to create and leverage digital twins enabling new insight, opportunities and levels of automation that drive innovation.

“NIAR is a flagship leader in aerospace and defense research and development, providing engineering thought leadership and guidance to the DoD and industry alike,” said Todd Tuthill, vice president of aerospace and defense industry, Siemens Digital Industries Software. “We are proud to work with NIAR in providing the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio to support the aviation and defense industries, driving digital innovation and critical program delivery.”