Before 2000, I served AT&T Labs as Technology VP, and later Program Planning/Management VP. I was also a delegate to CCITT (ITU) for 9 years. More recently, I have served as an executive consultant in technology(R&D) planning, and as Business Development Director for a Silicon Valley startup developing R&D enterprise decision support systems.

The IEEE exists to provide unique, affordable products and services to our members, academia, industry and government; it must be a leader in electronic publications/services. World class technical leadership and business practices are essential ingredients. The TAB VP must lead TAB, but also be a key player on the IEEE management team with the Board of Directors.

Basic industry redirections are underway, including shifts from internal R&D. Venture-funded R&D and contract development/ manufacture are business models being used today. These models seriously affect IEEE members and programs. My Board experience as Director for both Divisions I (Circuits and Devices, 2000-01) and III (Communications, 1990-91) as well as a Society President, help me understand the IEEE infrastructure/cost issues. Costs need to be streamlined for the environment. I understand and appreciate the problems facing our large Societies as well as our small ones.

I have wide international experience. I have been a leader in the Div. I-IV annual Region 8 chapter meetings. Further, as IEEE-USA VP-Technology Policy for 2002, I am working with the Societies to strengthen our programs informing Congress and the Regulatory Agencies on vital current issues. Many Societies need to be more supportive of regional programs globally, programs vital to members in start-ups, larger companies, academia and government.

I will deal with the technical challenges and infrastructure cost issues promptly. For years I have run organizations with $100M+ budgets – always balanced and properly weighted. I am familiar with valuable practices (e.g. activity based costing) which can benefit the IEEE. I will work closely with our colleague Board members to lead technical strategy, planning and operations to a healthy future as Technical VP.

Ralph W. Wyndrum Jr. can be reached at Wyndrum Associates, 35 Cooney Terrace, Fair Haven, NJ 07704; Phone: +1 732 219-0005; Fax: +1 732 219-0006; E-mail: rww@monmouth.com