Developing a Center for Applied Research and Technology Transfer (CART, Inc.) at Bluefield State College

Abstract

The paper updates the continuing development of the Center for Applied Research and Technology (CART, Inc.), at Bluefield State College (BSC), as a vehicle for entrepreneurial success. It discusses our Applied Research Assistant Program (ARAP) to provide teams of engineering technology students for our School of Engineering Technology and Computer Science (SETCS) with in-house internship experience and the School with a source of increased funding through CART, the operation of our own Course Management System (CMS) as a fee-based self-sustaining business operation, our ongoing applied research projects for industry and agencies, our partnerships with other colleges, universities, industry, and government, and the operation of the shop CART store. The vision of CART is to become a highly respected resource for innovative engineering and merging technologies in the discovery of applied research and design of applications that drive our economic viability, solve industrial problems, and strengthen homeland security and national defense. Our specific mission is to produce moderate financial returns by providing efficient and effective research contracting, program development, and revenue generation for the BSC School of Engineering Technology and Computer Science. CART, Inc. will focus on innovation through applied research, transferring technologies to markets, continuing education, and raising funds that will enhance the overall competitiveness of Bluefield State College. CART was created to enhance the competitive position of Bluefield State College for applied research opportunities in the current environment for research and development; promote the general economic development of the region; expedite and simplify the acquisition and utilization of research contracts; improve technology transfer; and link applied scientific research and technological advancements to economic development of the State of West Virginia. CART is a non-profit, non-stock corporation under the general corporation laws of the state organized exclusively for educational and scientific purposes within the meaning of section 501(c) [26 U.S.C. § 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, to foster and support applied research at the Bluefield State College School for Engineering Technology & Computer Science and to provide evaluation, development, patenting, management and marketing for the inventions and diverse service capabilities of its students, faculty, and staff. CART operations are audited. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2007.