December 2011
VIEW FROM THE TOP

Scott N. Talbot
General Manager, EM Research, Inc.

Q: There’s a distinct shortage of RF engineers, particularly among engineering school graduates. Has that improved somewhat, or do you see a need for companies like yours to promote careers in microwave engineering via campus promotions, summer internships, contests/competitions, or some other method?

A: We have heard the talk in industry about a shortage of RF engineers. In order to help with this shortage EM Research has continued its commitment to education. We support the education system by encouraging our youth to get a good education and supporting and rewarding our teachers. It is important to start at an early age focusing on math and science. We also serve on an advisory board at the University of Nevada, Reno. EM Research supports young engineers through our “Engineering Intern” program which allows them to gain experience while pursuing technical degrees.

Q: For those of you primarily in the military market, what do you expect of next year’s military budget (as yet undetermined)? For those in the commercial side of the business, are you encouraged by any particular emerging application or technologies?

A: Due to the political and economic uncertainty, the upcoming year will be challenging. However, there are still emerging opportunities in both the commercial and military markets. Older communication systems in both markets are beginning to show their age and will require re-design efforts. Opportunities continue to present themselves due to the increase in the importance of communications in our everyday life.

Q: After the 2008 economic meltdown, our industry showed great resilience (in general) these past two years. Unfortunately, the global economy remains in turmoil. Have we learned from those tough times, or do you fear another big dip for our industry?

A: We realize that our industry is not immune to economic and political turmoil and that there is a potential for another dip. After 20 years in business this is not the first time that we have had to go through an economic downturn. We have learned that it is important to be responsive to the needs of our customers. EM Research has worked diligently to reduce the time to market for product enhancements and to leverage new technologies so that we can be agile in the face of tough economic times.

Q: What new product or technological developments have most excited you and your employees?

A: We have been impressed with the advances in the higher speed microprocessors – even reaching RF frequencies, SIGINT, detection, and surveillance. As this technology evolves we have been developing and improving our products to provide solutions to meet the needs of customers. This allows us to ensure that our products will continue to support these and other new technologies.

Q:Which markets or technologies do you feel will propel the industry in the coming years?

A: We have been intrigued by the ever increasing speeds of digital networks, millimeter wave technology, and the in-roads that wireless communications is making in the advancements in the medical industry. At the same time, payload developments and increased capabilities and role of unmanned systems will contribute to the sophistication of Electronic Warfare. ♦