The Naval Air Systems Command’s (NAVAIR) fifth annual Fleet Environmental Information Exchange (EIE) is planned for 15-17 April 2003. Navy Region Southwest Environmental Coordinators will co-host this year’s exchange in the Coronado Banquet Room at the Naval Amphibious Base in San Diego, California.

Fleet representatives from Navy and Marine Corps hazardous material, supply, support equipment, ordnance and corrosion control programs are invited to attend the Exchange to discuss environmental aviation-related issues with NAVAIR environmental and acquisition experts. This forum provides opportunities to learn about new and emerging technologies, network with Navy environmental experts, and receive training credits.

The primary goal of every EIE is to identify and discuss unresolved Fleet environmental needs with NAVAIR environmental experts, and determine real-time solutions. Any needs requiring further attention beyond the expertise present are assigned to appropriate NAVAIR subject-matter experts for action.

Providing cutting-edge technology to the Fleet is a NAVAIR priority. To achieve this and allow beneficial hands-on demonstrations, the EIE Trade Show focuses on the proper use of technologies already transitioned, as well as those emerging from Navy laboratories. This year’s Trade Show takes place on the second day of the EIE, and features technologies involving aircraft stenciling, paint gun washers, particle counters, stencil machine (ground support equipment), and turbine shaft cleaning.

As always, the agenda will be Fleet-driven. NAVAIR is currently soliciting topics for the 2003 agenda, and encourages Fleet personnel to present their own perspectives and/or solutions to today’s environmental challenges. The 2003 EIE agenda includes briefings from the Civil Engineering Corps Officers School (CECOS) on their classroom and web-based training services. CECOS representatives will also provide a presentation on the Navy’s BASH (Bird Aircraft Strike Hazard) program. In addition to Fleet needs, other topics on the agenda include general series manuals and technical publication updates.

For additional information and to discuss agenda topics, please contact Herman Varmall (301) 757-2155 or Lynn Cahoon (252) 464-8141.