Sunday, November 25, 2012

Weekly News & Agenda for Tuesday, 11/27/12

1. AGENDA FOR TUESDAY, 11/27/12:

0700-0800:  Open Forum  
During the Open Forum there is time for expanded introductions, so this is a great time to update the group on your latest professional and/or personal focus.  We'll do our best to help with any networking needs.  Typically, one or more individuals will be able to help by offering specific referrals, advice, recommendations, or other assistance.  Even if you don't have immediate needs, consider joining us on Tuesday for the long-term networking value.   

2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:

11/27/12 (this week):  Open Forum - see above.

12/4/12:  TBD or Open Forum.  If you'd like to invite a speaker or lead a discussion on this date or any future Tuesday, just let me know at panicciaj@aol.com

12/11/12:  Evan Roth will share insights on how to power up your life and career.  Mr. Roth is a personal and business coach. 

3. VFW POST #1 - 113th ANNUAL FOUNDERS DAY DINNER (12/2/12):

Biznet member Shane Schmutz (USMA '01) writes as follows:

I’m trying to help out the post that I’m a member of (VFW Post #1). They’ve got a really great program lined up for our VFW Founder’s Day dinner and we’re trying to get the word out. The program has some amazing speakers and attendees.  I think a lot of Academy Biznet members would be interested in attending. You don’t have to be a VFW member to attend.

Details: 

Sunday, December 2nd, 2012
Brown Palace Hotel, Denver
Cocktails:  5:30pm
Dinner:  6:30pm
Individual Tickets:  $50
Tables of 8:  $400

Since 1899 the members of the John S. Stewart Post 1, VFW have held a banquet to commemorate the founding of our organization.  This year we will have BG Steve Ritchie as our Keynote Speaker.  BG Ritchie is one of only 2 pilot aces from Vietnam and the only person to have shot down 5 MiG21s.  We will also be joined by GEN Kevin Chilton, the only astronaut to receive his 4th Star.  Additionally, Project Sanctuary will be recognized as the Outstanding Veteran Organization of the Year and Ms. Laura Williams will be receiving our VFW Citizen of the Year Award for her outstanding efforts in starting Colorado’s Vets Court.  Please join us.  You can register online by following the link.  For any question, please contact us at 303-748-2868. 
  4. NEW BOOK BY BIZNET MEMBER RICH ADAMS (USMA '67)

Rich Adams (USMA '67) has a new book out, titled "Eben Kruge:  How 'A Christmas Carol' Came to be Written".  It can be ordered in hardback (ISBN 978-1-4797-4232-5), softback (ISBN 978-1-4797-4231-8), and eBook (978-1-4797-4233-2) from publisher Xlibris.com, and from major bookseller websites.

Rich writes as follows:

My new story is about Charles Dickens at the age of thirty, and what triggered his imagination to write the most beloved Christmas story of all time. The "Carol" was written in 1843. The previous year, Dickens and his wife, Catherine, spend five months in America, their last stop before returning to England being, you guessed it, West Point...for two nights.  The first complete fictional story published by Dickens when he returns to England is..."A Christmas Carol." Therein lies the story.

The book already has great reviews and I submit would be a wonderful option for Christmas giving.  Please share it with all your friends!

All the best,

Your author of "The Parting: A Story of West Point on the Eve of the Civil War"

Rich


===================================================

Have a great week.

Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
panicciaj@aol.com

Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700, in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. The Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), however you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at http://www.academybiznet.org/.

Army-Navy Game 2012

The West Point Society of Denver, Inc.

Hosts the Colorado Chapter of the U. S. Naval Academy Alumni Association , the Colorado Naval Academy Parents' Club and the Colorado West Point Parents' Club for a Viewing of the

One Hundred Thirteenth ARMY – NAVY Football Game

Saturday, 8 December 2012, Cash Bar Opens @ 1200 hrs
Kick-Off at 1300 hrs

The Benny Havens Room at Heather Ridge Country Club
13521 East Iliff Ave. – Exit 5, just west of I-225

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Two Biznet Items For Your Consideration

Here are 2 items to take a look at please...

-- Neal Williams (USAFA '93) seeks new position. 
-- Jim Burke (USMA '73) has openings at SAP.

See below for details on both of those items:

1.  MEMBER SEEKING ASSISTANCE:

Biznet member Neal Williams (USAFA '93) writes as follows: 

Recently my company has informed me that the division in which I work is closing.  They gave us a month notice so I am trying to be active and reach out to any possible networking sources. 
Little bit about myself:

A '93 Air Force Academy graduate with an undergrad in biochemistry and an Air Force sponsored master's degree in Chemical Engineering.  Spent 8 years in the Air Force as an engineer/acquisition officer and then as a bioenvironmental engineer.  After leaving the Air Force, I have worked with a federal contractor with remediation and most recently I have been a project engineer in the design and building of water treatment plants.  I am a registered professional engineer in the State of Colorado.  Looking to find a new position in the area.
 
Here is Neal's resume (unformatted due to blog limitations):
 
NEAL T. WILLIAMS, P.E.
15980 West 66
th Place Home (720) 898-0741
Arvada, Colorado 80007 neal.williams@yahoo.com Cell (303) 475-0691

Professional engineer with 15 years experience and an executive experienced skill set in environmental sampling, design,
and remediation; water plant design; laboratory and field chemistry; computer aided design and geographical information
systems, with strong organizational and management skills. Well-read, creative-thinking individual who brings new ideas
to any organization. Organized, hard-working, self-motivator looking to bring my dedication and excitement to fill an
engineering management role for a company aggressive in the market place.

HIGHLIGHTS
Managed construction and design of first fluidized ion exchange pressure treatment system. Integration of this
treatment system saved client approximately $50,000. Successful design led to five new orders in the following
year.
Researched, piloted, designed, and constructed first fluidized ion exchange nitrate removal system. This system
currently solves a small community’s water needs by removing nitrate and saving $10,000 a year in waste
reduction.
Developed engineering plans for a time critical soil removal action including chemical sampling and analysis of
site, remediation alternative analysis, and soil volume removal estimates. Used GIS expertise to map the entire
site and provided visual reference for government clients and field personnel. Regulatory agencies used this
project as a benchmark for all other contractors going forward.
With impending inspection, successfully managed transition of base assessments into a computer risk based aided
database that reduced surveillance time by 25% and had the surveillance schedule completed on time within 18
months thus ensuring the protection of over 2,000 base personnel. Scored perfect scores during inspection.
As a new Air Force lieutenant, developed a plan to direct and manage $1.5M in research projects which included
evaluating, grading, and recommending funding of contract proposals. Exceeded management expectations by
having contracts awarded within six months.
Orica Watercare, Watkins, Colorado December 2005 – Present
Project Engineer
December 2006-Present
Design, issue contracts, and manage construction of fluidized ion exchange water treatment systems. Define
specifications for engineering system fabricator and electrical control system subcontractors and monitor performance.
Work closely with operators, city planners, and other design engineering firms to integrate designed systems into current
plants or new plants. Oversee design and construction of water treatment systems ranging from 25 gallons per minute to 4
million gallons per day with budgets ranging from $100K – $1.5M. Manage and provide project oversight for design
engineers, field engineers, and laboratory technicians.
Researched construction firms and identified local firm to build new treatment systems. Profit margin increased
by 12% due to savings in construction and travel related costs for new systems.
Designed, built, and tested new pilot testing systems that replaced older pilot equipment and simulated new full
scale designs being developed. Saved $50,000 by upgrading older units with new technology rather than building
new systems.
Field Engineer
December 2005-December 2006
Managed and performed pilot testing on potential client’s water. Performed laboratory testing to validate technology’s
effectiveness and used these tests to establish pilot trial testing. Managed four different sized pilot units and performed
over twenty field evaluations lasting from two weeks up to six months. After field testing, provided detailed pilot test
results to support technology. Managed testing lab technician and mentored new field engineers.
Successful pilots and associated salesmanship on the site led to ten full scale systems sold.
Proven field work and quick understanding of the unique process led the way to being promoted to Project
Engineer after less than a year as a Field Engineer.
Environmental Chemical Corporation, Lakewood, Colorado July 2001 – December 2005
Project Engineer
Primary engineer on multiple projects, providing environmental solutions to site managers. Included researching, writing,
and producing Construction/Engineering Work Plans and Quality Control Plans for company’s work sites in various states
and under various federal agencies. Performed CAD and/or GIS work for site managers detailing site layouts. Instructed
and consulted with site managers to implement field monitoring programs and updated site engineering layouts due to
changing field conditions. Monitored subcontract laboratory contracts and provided data validation of chemical analysis
performed.
Provided engineering support for a contract in which the previous contractor was deficient in timely reporting.
Used my chemical, engineering, CAD, organizational, and management skills, delivered all reports within the 90
day required time period. Received compliments from both the federal and state regulatory agencies on the
timeliness and improved quality of the reports. Timely turnaround increased company’s profit on project by 5%.
United States Air Force Jun 1993 – Jul 2001
Director of Environmental Health and Safety, Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota
Jan 1997 – Jul 2001
Managed staff of six technicians responsible for the identification, evaluation, and control of physical, chemical, and
biological hazards. Responsible for compliance with all applicable regulations including OSHA and EPA regulations such
as the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, EPCRA, and RCRA/CERCLA. Developed
environmental sampling strategies to ensure 100% compliance for drinking water, hazardous waste, and wastewater/storm
water discharge. Managed departmental budget.
20 year old sampling plan was no longer relevant and protective of community health. Spearheaded project to reevaluate
the site by incorporating on-site wells and providing a comprehensive new sampling strategy which
saved $300,000 in sampling costs and increased the overall protection of community water supply.
Laboratory Manager and Development Engineer, Edwards AFB, California
Jun 1993-Jan 1997
Coordinated and directed engineering and technical management activities for 20 engineers and scientists. Planned and
coordinated budgets for research efforts for Air Force research laboratory.

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
Professional Engineer, Colorado #43393
MS, Chemical Engineering, University of Colorado, GPA 3.31/4
BS, Biochemistry, United States Air Force Academy, GPA 3.15/4

2.  OPENINGS AT SAP:

Biznet member Jim Burke (USMA '73) writes as follows:

Business and Job opportunities in the SAP Ecosystem

SAP is the number one world wide application software company.     www.sap.com

We are looking for new partners, and our partners are looking for software sales, presales and delivery professionals due to high growth in sales. 

Specifically we are looking for Denver partner to sell and implement our SAP B1 ERP solution.   Here is a link with information about the product:


If  you are interested in becoming a resell partner, or these career opportunities, please reach out to biznet member Jim Burke for more information at:  Jim.Burke@SAP.com or 303-324.9809

--------------------------------------

Kindest regards,

Jim Burke
(m) 303.898.8510

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Weekly News & Agenda for Tuesday, 11/20/12

1. AGENDA FOR TUESDAY, 11/20/12:

0700-0730:  INTRODUCTIONS & ASSISTANCE
Our roundtable introductions are an opportunity to talk abuot your current professional or personal focus, with special emphasis on any networking needs.  Chances are good that someone in the group will be able to help.  Even if you don't have immediate networking needs, join us for the long-term networking value. 

0730-0800:  SPEAKER/PROGRAM

Dick Bush (USAFA '71) will talk on a topic he has titled "View From The Bakken".  The Bakken is a geologic formation, primarily in Montana and North Dakota, which contains major oil reserves that are now in production.  Dick recently attended a North Dakota Petroleum Council meeting, at which the discussion ranged from energy and the economy to entreprenurial topics and social issues.  On Tuesday morning he will share what he learned from the meeting.
2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:

11/20/12 (this week):  Dick Bush - see above.

11/27/12:  TBD or Open Forum.  If you'd like to invite a speaker or lead a discussion on this date or any future Tuesday, just let me know at panicciaj@aol.com

3.  ITEM OF INTEREST - Book "The Liberator" on WWII Vet & Former Biznet Speaker:

Long-distance Biznet member Ron Meier (USMA '66) writes from northern Georgia as follows:

In our early day's of Biznet, Felix Sparks, a Denver resident, visited with us and spoke about some of his adventures in combat and his unit's liberation of Dachau.  This is a new book on Sparks that all Academy grads might like to read.  Please pass on to anyone you'd like.  Ron

http://online.wsj.com/article_email/SB10001424052970203846804578102941114709024-lMyQjAxMTAyMDEwNzExNDcyWj.html?mod=wsj_valettop_email


4. REMINDER - USAFA SUPE'S RECEPTION/AOG EVENT - 11/29/12 at DMNS:

Networking and Cocktail Reception at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science

Remarks by the Superintendent of the USAF Academy, Lt. Gen. Mike Gould '76

November 29, 2012  6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Appetizers will be served; cash bar

Location: Denver Museum of Nature and Science, 2001 Colorado Boulevard, Denver, CO
Guests are welcome, including grads of all service academies and their guests.


==================================================

Have a great week and a Happy Thanksgiving.

Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
panicciaj@aol.com

Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700, in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. The Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), however you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at http://www.academybiznet.org/.

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Weekly News & Agenda for Tuesday, 11/13/12

Happy Veteran's Day to All!

1. AGENDA FOR TUESDAY, 11/13/12:

0700-0730:  INTRODUCTIONS & ASSISTANCE
During our roundtable introductions, feel free to talk about your current professional or personal focus, with special emphasis on any networking needs.  Chances are good that someone in the group will be able to help.  Even if you don't have immediate networking needs, join us for the long-term networking value. 

0730-0800:  SPEAKER/PROGRAM

Kurt Schlaefer (USAFA '70) will provide an auto industry update, plus details on how he can help the do-it-yourself seller.  Kurt is a vehicle broker with Centennial Leasing & Sales. 

2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:

11/13/12 (this week):  Kurt Schlaefer - see above.

11/20/12:  TBD or Open Forum.  If you'd like to invite a speaker or lead a discussion on this date or any future Tuesday, just let me know at panicciaj@aol.com

3. JOB OPPORTUNITY (Business Development - Military Segment):

Thanks to Chuck Jones (USMA '68) for passing along this item from his network.  If interested, please contact Sara Theile via her contact info as listed below.

National Military Federal Market Segment Leader

Multiple Locations Nationwide

Growing national engineering consulting firm is looking for a leader for their established, military business sector. The individual will assist in growing the federal military division through new and established relationships.  This is a senior position that will focus on selling the firm’s full range of engineering services to the military.  The successful candidate must have existing business development contacts within the military sector, with a preference given towards candidates with established relationships in the Air Guard, Army Guard or Air Force.  Nationwide travel will be necessary.
Requirements:

*    Bachelors degree in Civil Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
*    15+ years of experience working directly with federal/military clients.  Preference given to individuals with a strong understanding of the National Guard and/or Air Force.
*    Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) preferred.
*    Established contacts in the military either through prior business development directly to the military or through working as an engineer in the military.

To apply, email resume to sara@rcassociatesllc.com.

Sara Theile
RC Associates, LLC
4100 West Kennedy Boulevard, #223
Tampa, Florida  33609
(813) 286-2075
sara@rcassociatesllc.com <mailto:sara@rcassociatesllc.com> ;
www.rcassociatesllc.com <http://www.rcassociatesllc.com/> ;

4. USAFA SUPE'S RECEPTION/AOG EVENT - 11/29 at DMNS:

Thanks to Bob Fretzs (USAFA '71) for sharing details on this great networking event, which is open to grads of all academies, and guests.

Networking and Cocktail Reception at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science

Remarks by the Superintendent of the USAF Academy, Lt. Gen. Mike Gould '76

November 29, 2012  6 p.m. until 8 p.m., Appetizers will be served; cash bar

Location: Denver Museum of Nature and Science, 2001 Colorado Boulevard, Denver, CO
Guests are welcome!  We are also inviting local graduates of slightly less distinguished military academies (West Point and Annapolis).


I hope to see all of you there!

Thank you,
Mike Fontaine ‘89

===================================================

Have a great week.

Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
panicciaj@aol.com

Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700, in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. The Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), however you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at http://www.academybiznet.org/.

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Weekly News & Agenda for Tuesday, 11/6/12

1. AGENDA FOR TUESDAY, 11/6/12:

0700-0800:  OPEN FORUM.
Our networking discussion will include current business news, general topics, personal updates, and your networking needs.

During the roundtable introductions, tell us about your current professional or personal focus, especially any networking needs.  Chances are good that someone in the group can provide help in the form of contacts, referrals, or recommendations.  Even if you don't have immediate networking needs, join us on Tuesday for the long-term networking value. 

2. UPCOMING TUESDAY PROGRAMS:

11/6/12 (this week):  Open Forum.

11/13/12:  Kurt Schlaefer (USAFA '70) will provide an auto industry update, with special emphasis on how he can assist the do-it-yourself seller.

If you'd like to invite a speaker or lead a discussion on any future Tuesday, just let me know at panicciaj@aol.com

3. JOB OPPORTUNITIES:

Thanks to Ken Knapp (USAFA '78) for forwarding the following opportunities.  The contact info listed below is a bit limited -- if you're interested in one of these items, let me know (panicciaj@aol.com) and I'll link you up with Ken for more info. 

Here are a few items for folks to know about:
·        OTAK is expending and looking for a new BD person.  Office will be located in downtown Denver (Lo Do).  OTAK is an A&E firm.  POC is Andrew Midwood
·        Innov8 Solutions has been in business over 40 years and wants to expand into the government market.  Needs a person as employee or consultant to assist with business development and proposal management.  Contact Ron Montoya.
·        From Aurora Chamber of Commerce:  Frontier Airlines
 
===================================================

Have a great week.

Joe Paniccia (USMA '84)
panicciaj@aol.com

Service Academy BizNet of Denver meets weekly on Tuesdays at 0700, in the Marriott Hotel at the Denver Tech Center. From I-25, exit Belleview east, then turn north onto Syracuse Street. The Marriott lots are paid parking (approx $2-4), however you can park for FREE across the street at Garcia's Restaurant (we have their permission). Look for us in the seating area inside the Marriott's coffee shop. RSVP is not required. Dress is casual. Attendance is open to graduates of the federal service academies (USAFA, USCGA, USMA, USMMA, USNA). Our schedule, roster and other information are posted on the web site at http://www.academybiznet.org/.