CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Colleagues, this journal does two things simultaneously. Firstly, it reflects on the journey of two outstanding Test and Evaluation (T&E) professionals Rusty Roberts and Edward Greer and secondly it looks to the future of T&E through the Lense of digital engineering. In 2024 we find ourselves accelerating T&E due to emerging needs and the way the world is evolving politically and socially, while our workforce demographics have not moved far enough to the left in terms of younger professionals accepting the challenge of being a professional testers and evaluators. So, the complexity of the tools we use and systems we need to test are increasing, and at the same time this traditionally defense related technology is finding its way into commercial transportation systems land, air, space, cyber and maritime as an example. In my opinion we are at a tipping point, and something has to give; either we grow the workforce and further recognize the contributions of test as much as we do for design, or we are heading for an impasse. So, as you read this journal, I would like you to think about how your ITEA can do more to build the next T&E workforce in multiple countries and how you as an ITEA member can actively make that happen. We are stronger together and can move faster in partnership between government, academia, and industry. Take a few extra moments to read Dr. Joiners editorial and consider contributing to the next outstanding publication from your association.