Mathematical Modeling in Industry

The IMA joined forces with PIMS (Pacific Institute of Mathematical Sciences) in May 2003 and offered a program in mathematical modeling for graduate students. The two-week program consisted of two parts: Graduate Industrial Mathematical Modeling Camp, May 17-22, 2003, and the 7th Industrial Problem Solving Workshop, May 25-29, 2003. The first week took place in the new Banff International Research Station, while the second week's program was hosted by the University of Calgary.

Students work in teams of 6 during the first week working on problems posed by a mix of academic researchers (Richard Braun, Robert Piche, Fadil Santosa, and Emily Stone) and industrial researchers (Sonja Glavaski and David Misemer). The problem posers also acted as mentors and provide some guidance and cheer-leading. Problems ranged from thin fluid film drainage to solar car racing strategy.

In the second week, the students were joined by faculty mentors from several universities, and turned their attention to solving problems posed by industry. A total of 7 problems were posed. Students and faculty mentors formed teams and worked on these problems. Reports by each team have been submitted and will be made available soon from the PIMS web site.

Most participants, including faculty and industrial mentors, felt that the experience very rewarding. There was a high level of activity and excitement, and towards the end of each week, some level of giddiness from lack of sleep. Everyone felt that they learned and accomplished a lot.

For 2004, the IMA will offer its biennial Industrial Mathematics Modeling: A Workshop for Graduate Students at the IMA. The dates for this program has been set for August 9-18, 2004. Students will work in teams of 6 working on problems posed by industry mentors. The mentors for this year are

• Eric van den Berg, Telcordia Technologies
• Ann Dewitt, 3M
• Thomas Grandine, Boeing
• John Hoffman, Lockheed Martin
• Julio Spinelli, Guidant
• Steven Vestal, Honeywell