Weber State University

Weber State University Uses 3D Printing for Aerospace Support, Research

OGDEN, Utah, January 26 – Weber State University is using 3D printing to advance its research on composite materials that support northern Utah’s aerospace and defense ecosystem.

The university’s Miller Advanced Research and Solutions Center recently upgraded and installed the Impossible Objects Composite-Based Additive Manufacturing system, or CBAM-2. The machine prints composite materials that can then be used to design parts for a range of high-tech applications.

Located near Hill Air Force Base, Utah, the MARS Centers brings together Weber State students and faculty with industry experts who can apply innovative solutions to real-world problems, especially in the realm of national defense.

“Composite materials are of high interest to the military, and the ability to 3D-print those parts on demand with CBAM gives us an advantage to participate in more projects and recruit the best talent,” said David Ferro, dean of WSU’s College of Engineering, Applied Science & Technology.

Ferro said Weber State has a long history with Impossible Objects and believes the new system – a leap in technology from the center’s previous CBAM printer – will be a valuable tool in aerospace research among academia, defense and commercial partners.

“We’ve used this technology to print parts for legacy aircraft, aging jets that need replacement parts or tools that aren’t in production anymore,” said Devin Young, grant writing and research specialist at WSU, who works at the MARS Center. “CBAM makes parts that are lighter and stronger than some of the other methods out there, and it does it faster.”

Young said a recent example of 3D-printed parts via Impossible Objects includes a strap that keeps first-aid kits secure inside aircraft currently flown by the U.S. Air Force.

“We’ve found a range of uses for this technology, from large aerospace companies to small local businesses,” Young said.

Steve Hoover, Impossible Objects CEO, said the CBAM system’s Carbon Fiber PEEK 3D-printed material achieves excellent mechanical properties and is a cutting-edge alternative for aluminum prototyping, tooling, spares and repairs.

“The MARS Center is at the forefront of aerospace and defense research,” Hoover said. “We’re proud that they’ve selected CBAM technology, and have already engaged in several projects that have exciting potential for the Department of Defense, Department of Energy and other industrial partners.”

The MARS Center opened in August 2022 thanks to a $3.5 million donation from the Larry H. & Gail Miller Family Foundation. The CBAM 3D Printer from Impossible Objects is among the first advanced manufacturing technologies to be installed and used the new facility.

Contact: Bryan Magaña, byranmagana@weber.edu

Weber State University is renowned for excellent teaching, accessible educational opportunities and its enduring presence in northern Utah. Weber State serves more than 29,000 students form all walks of life and offers 225+ degree programs, including 20 graduate degrees. Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more.

Impossible Objects is a 3D printer and materials company founded with the belief that materials science inventions would enable 3D printing to revolutionize the world in the same ways computers and the internet have revolutionized the way we live, work and play. Impossible Object’s CBAM technology combines the production rate of conventional manufacturing with the design flexibility of 3D printing to create high-performance materials at break-neck speeds. These advanced composite materials are lightweight, strong and ideal for a range of industrial applications. By removing the barriers, we’ve unlocked new opportunities to reshape and rethink manufacturing. Learn more at https://www.impossible-objects.com/

Bill Willahan, NOW CFO

Bill Willahan is a Business and Accounting Consultant at NOW CFO, a full-service consulting firm founded in 2005. Bill was invited to join the NOW CFO team in 2017 and continues to experience the thrill of working with clients to over come obstacles and improve operations.

NOW CFO is a “roll up our sleeves” full-service consulting firm with a singular focus on outsourced CFO, controller, accounting, and financial service needs. Their reputation as talented management consultants and financial analysts with an entrepreneurial spirit has helped them grow to over 31 markets in 13 different states with hundreds of employees – all of them providing financial services that improve the success of their clients.

With most NOW CFO Utah Operations along the Wasatch Front in Salt Lake and Utah counties, it was time to break ground in the Ogden-Weber area. “I have been involved in these northern counties over the last few years, and I’ve observed an innovative entrepreneurial focus which I both respect and wanted to be part of,” said Bill. In 2019, Bill moved his family to Layton to represent NOW CFO in both Davis and Weber counties.

When asked what the defining moments of his career at NOW CFO is, Bill said, “There have been several defining moments with difficult and complex projects; from cryptocurrency accounting to implementing new systems that have helped me understand how important our clients are.” Bill explains that the accounting for a cryptocurrency company is extremely complicated.

NOW CFO fits a unique spot in the accounting world. They do not do audits or taxes, but rather they work with their clients in offering business and accounting services focused on the operations of the clients. NOW CFO advisors are partnered with a client to help create success and continue growth. This team mentality has created bonds with their clients, who are widely valued throughout the business world.

Bill is excited to see NOW CFO continue to grow and expand into markets that need their services. With the increasing complexities of business, NOW CFO is well-positioned to assist clients in achieving success.

Financial Visibility Means Smarter Business Decisions

To learn more about Bill or inquire about his services please visit NOW CFO’s website here or email Bill at bwillahan@nowcfo.com

In 2021, China started Good As Gold Insurance as a one-woman business writing all different types of insurance policies customized to the lifestyle of her clients. As a mother of two girls, it was important for China to have a job where she was able to stay home with them as much as possible before the school year started – Good As Gold Insurance allowed her to do just that.

“You’ve got it gal!” is China’s motto – she never gives up on a challenge and she never wants her clients to give up either. “No” is not an option for her and she will go to any lengths to make things work. Many clients have said that China always gets back to them with not only a solution, but several options when they felt stuck. Everyone knows they can count on China!

One customer testimonial from her client, Debbie Williams, reads, “China is so bright and really knows about insurance. She is friendly and very conscientious, making sure you get the right insurance for your personal needs.”

China loves and values Ogden’s rich culture, history, and growing community. She has always been connected to this community and proud of its accomplishments and growth. Ogden was the ideal place for her to start her business and she knew that her business would prosper here. When asked what the biggest win for her business has been, China said, “Good As Gold Insurance has experienced financial every month since it opened in 2021.” China is excited for the future and looks forward to seeing the growth of a business that is her completely her own, not attached to another person!

So, what if, instead of thinking about solving your whole life, you just think about adding additional good things. One at a time. Just let your pile of good things grow.
– Rainbow Rowell

To learn more about China please call or email her at: (801) 940 2693 or goodasgoldinsurance@gmail.com

Weber State alumna, businesswoman and civic leader Kearston Cutrubus was elected as chair of the university’s Board of Trustees at its monthly meeting on Aug. 9.

Karla Bergeson, a retired corporate legal counsel for Citigroup, was elected as vice chair. It’s the first time two women have served together in the leadership positions of the board, which advocates for the university and advises the president on issues such as budget, programs, personnel and planning.

Cutrubus, who was appointed to the Board of Trustees in 2016, and has served as vice chair since 2017, thanked the board for its confidence in her leadership.

“I’m honored and humbled to serve as chair of the Weber State University Board of Trustees,” Cutrubus said. “I look forward to working with an incredible team of trustees, WSU leadership, faculty and staff who endeavor to collaborate with the community, businesses, Hill Air Force Base, and each other, to ensure that the students and their education are the top priority.”

Cutrubus is the customer and community relations director for her family’s multiple automotive dealerships in northern Utah. She serves on various boards and committees for community organizations, including the Top of Utah Military Affairs Executive Committee, YCC (Your Community Connection), the WSU Wildcat Club Executive Board and many others.

Cutrubus succeeds Nolan Karras, who has led the board as chair since 2016.

Ogden native, Karla Bergeson, was appointed to the board in 2017. She is the former executive vice president and deputy general counsel for Citigroup’s credit card business in the U.S., where she worked for 23 years before retiring. Throughout her career, Bergeson supported higher education in northern Utah. In 2017, she received an honorary degree from Weber State and delivered the commencement address.

Eight of the university’s 10 trustees are appointed by Utah’s governor and approved by the Utah Senate before being sworn in. Appointees are eligible to serve two four-year terms.

Two new members are expected to join the board officially at its next meeting in September: Keith Titus, president and CEO of MarketStar, an Ogden-based global sales organization, is also a member of Weber State’s National Advisory Council. Brent Bishop is the founder of Greenbacks All-a-Dollar and co-founder of Franklin Covey.

Other appointed members of the board include Amanda Covington, Louenda Downs, Karen Fairbanks and Donald Salazar.

Weber State student body president, Ben Ferney, and Alumni Association president Curtis Funk, which are not appointed positions, serve one- and two-year terms respectively.

Visit weber.edu/PresidentsOffice/Trustees for more information about the Board of Trustees.

Weber State University’s Center for Community Education (CEC) invites the community to the Food FUNding & Your Future Carnival at 2605 Monroe Blvd., Aug. 6 from 5 to 8 p.m.

This event will give students and their families the opportunity to learn about scholarship and financial aid options available to them at Weber State. Experts will be on hand to help students with applications on the spot. Applicants will need to bring identification and estimated gross annual income information. DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) students are encouraged to attend.

“You can also explore educational programs from badges and certificates to degrees to secure a better future in just a few months,” said Niki Tonks, marketing manager for the John B. Goddard School of Business & Economics.

Spanish and English speakers will be on hand to answer questions.

The carnival will have a number of activities to entertain family and friends, including lawn games. Hokulia, a local food vendor, will hand out free shaved ice as long as supplies last. Participants may visit various booths from Weber State organizations and learn about different activities and services.

Along with financial information and assistance, the CEC offers a variety of services including English as a Second Language (ESL) courses for non-native speakers. The Weber-Morgan Health Department is also offering COVID vaccine clinics on Mondays and Wednesdays in August from 1-8 p.m.

This carnival is free and open to the public. For more information, visit fb.me/e/159yqLVPN.

Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.

Contact:

Niki Tonks, Goddard School of Business & Economics marketing manager
801-626-7397 • nikitonks@weber.edu

Author:

Melissa Smith, Marketing & Communications
801-626-6348 • melissasmith9@weber.edu

The annual Lindquist Family Symphony Pops and Fireworks will attract thousands of people to Weber State University, July 18 from 9-11 p.m.

Now in its 42nd year, the celebrations are a welcome return to normal after last year’s event was cancelled due to the pandemic. Initiated by John A. and Telitha E. Lindquist in 1978, the Lindquist Pops is a longstanding tradition in northern Utah that brings the community together each year. John E. Lindquist, President of Lindquist Mortuaries and Cemeteries in Ogden, proudly continues this tradition.

“We are so grateful to the Lindquist family for continuing the tradition of the Lindquist Pops Concert, said President Brad Mortensen. “After all that we have endured as individuals and a community during the pandemic, coming together to celebrate provides real evidence of turning the pandemic corner. We are happy to bring a wonderful community together again on our beautiful campus for a joyous celebration.”

The New American Philharmonic, directed by Shannon Roberts, will provide a free 60-minute concert beginning at 9 p.m. at the Ada Lindquist Plaza. The performance will include a selection of patriotic music, featuring Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” with a battery of 16 cannons provided by Cannoneers of the Wasatch to accompany. The group has provided the cannons each year for the concert since it started in 1978.

At approximately 10 p.m., attendees will enjoy one of the largest fireworks displays in Utah, accompanied by the symphony. Due to drought conditions, extra precautions are being exercised with this year’s fireworks display, including the possibility of canceling the show if wind and weather conditions pose threats.

Several food trucks will be on hand to sell drinks and refreshments.

On-campus parking and seating will be available, but may be limited due to ongoing construction of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system through campus. The roundabouts off Harrison Boulevard and Dixon Drive will be closed to traffic. Access to campus will be through Edvalson Street, Skyline Drive, and Birch and Taylor avenues.

Guests traveling in motor homes or larger vehicles are encouraged to park on the east side of campus near Stewart Stadium. The Dee Events Center also offers additional parking.

To minimize damage to the grounds, attendees may not leave blankets or chairs to save spaces before July 17 at 6 p.m. Items placed on the lawn prior to that time will be removed. Tarps, stakes and tent pegs are not allowed due to safety concerns and will be removed. No personal fireworks or pets will be allowed on campus, with the exception of service animals. Spectators are asked to clean up their area and drive with courtesy and caution following the event.

The Wildcat Micro Fund still has plenty of grant funds available for entrepreneurs and our local small business community (they won’t last forever!). FREE early-stage funding of up to $2,000 (you can apply for and receive multiple awards) is available to residents of Davis, Weber, Morgan and Box Elder counties in Utah.

Visit wildcatmicrofund.org for more information and to apply.

Chamber President & CEO, Chuck Leonhardt is a guest on Forging the Norsatch Podcast. He shares information about the history of the Ogden-Weber Chamber of Commerce and its impact on the local community then and now.

Forging the Norsatch Podcast is presented by the Economic Development Office of Weber State University for entrepreneurs, start ups, small business owners and the supporters of the Northern Utah entrepreneurial ecosystem. In each episode, listeners learn about news and upcoming events, an interesting topic of the day and an enlightening interview with a new company or organization that supports business in the Norsatch.

Consider tuning in for inspirational stories from small businesses and organizations that support them in creating a cohesive environment in northern Utah.

Listen to Episode 13 on Spotify or Anchor. We invite all community members to join our community Facebook group, Ogden-Weber! Shout It Out! to share why Weber County is a great place to live, learn, shop, work, and play.

Follow Forging the Norsatch on Facebook!