Volpe Journal Summer 2000
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Commentary
This issue highlights the Volpe Center's contribution to real-world problems at both the national and international level. The work described in this journal demonstrates the transportability of ideas, concepts, and innovative technologies. We have developed connections and formed pathways that have enabled us to provide creative solutions in new arenas. From our security work at the US Capitol to transporting missiles in the former USSR to leveraging GPS augmentations for the Australian aviation community, the Center's staff is ready to respond to new challenges that take us beyond the traditional concept of transportation research.
Our cover story describes the Volpe Center's role in developing a new security system for the US Capitol. We are extremely proud of our work in this area--proud to make a contribution to such an important and central institution that symbolizes our country's government and history. The US Capitol Police turned to the Center because of our proven capabilities as security experts. We brought to this project: our knowledge of security systems; our expertise in system design that enabled us to build structured solutions to the complex security requirements of the US Capitol building complex; and a flexible contracting capability that meant that we could respond to the unique contracting requirements of Congress.
Our second article about our work in the former USSR shows how the Volpe Center has been able to use its long tradition of work with the Federal Railroad Administration in new and innovative ways. We have been supporting efforts to reduce the missile arsenal of the former USSR in accordance with the START treaties. The safe transportation of missiles by rail has proved to be a key component of the cooperative threat reduction effort. Ross Gill and James Lamond of the Volpe Center are seasoned 'rail' people and have been successful in taking their experience in this country and applying it to transportation challenges in the USSR. In addition to demonstrating their technical capabilities, they have gained the confidence of their Russian counterparts and established relationships of trust and good humor.
This international growth also is evident in our work with the Global Positioning System. We have signed agreements with Australia, with Germany, and through the Federal Aviation Administration with Chile to provide the aviation authorities in those countries with access to our Volpe-developed system that captures information on GPS availability. Our participation in international organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization and the International Association of the Institutes of Navigation has enabled us to share our research and respond to the interests and requirements of our international colleagues. Karen Van Dyke, who has made an important contribution to the science of navigation and who was recently appointed President of the Institute of Navigation, is profiled in this issue.
In addition to our real-world applications, we are constantly aware of the need to provide a theoretical foundation to our practical work. Our strategic planning drives our research and technology. Our role in forging changes in the approach to transportation education is a significant element in our strategic planning. Education is changing in all disciplines, and transportation is no exception. Volpe Center Senior Analyst Peter Manning, who also is profiled in this issue, provides insight into how education and learning will define the transportation system of tomorrow.
I take pride in the fact that our staff here at Volpe continues its commitment to the local community through its volunteer efforts. As described in the article on our volunteer work, the Center was recently recognized by the Cambridge School Volunteers, Inc. for its elementary and secondary level education programs. The Volpe Center now is recognized as having the largest corporate 
volunteer program in the City of Cambridge. As you will see in this article, Secretary of Transportation Rodney E. Slater continues to demonstrate his dedication to education and promoting transportation as a wonderful career choice and opportunity.
Dr. Richard R. John, Director
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