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Contact Us

Interested in collaborating with the Northern Front Autonomous Systems Engine (NFASE)?

We welcome partnerships from industry, academia, tribal nations, and government to advance autonomous systems research, innovation, and workforce development.

This page provides information on how to work with us and connects you with our key team members. Whether you’re looking to explore partnership opportunities, engage in research collaboration, or learn more about workforce and community initiatives, our team is here to help.

How to Work With Us

Partnerships with NFASE can take many forms:

  • Research Collaboration – Join forces on projects addressing transportation, agriculture, mining, energy, health care, and national security.
  • Workforce Development – Help prepare and engage the next generation of diverse, skilled professionals.
  • Community Engagement – Expand the impact of autonomous systems in rural and tribal communities.
  • Commercialization – Work with us to bring autonomous technologies from concept to market.

Key Personnel

Mark Askelson
Associate Vice President for Research, National Security - University of North Dakota            
  • mark.askelson@UND.edu
  • Role: PI/PD
Thomasine Heitkamp
Research Developer - University of North Dakota  
  • thomasine.heitkamp@UND.edu
  • Role: Senior Personnel
Christopher Theisen
Executive Director - Research Institute for Autonomous Systems (RIAS)
  • christopher.theisen@UND.edu
  • Role: Executive Director, RIAS
Amanda Brandt
Senior Research Scientist - RIAS
  • amanda.brandt@UND.edu

  • Role: Program Manager
Joseph Shaw
Distinguished Professor - Montana State University  
  • joseph.shaw@montana.edu
  • Role: Co-PI
Robert Hall
Department Head and Professor - South Dakota School of Mines & Technology
  • robert.hall@sdsmt.edu
  • Role: Co-PI
Nancy Glenn
Vice President of Research and Economic Development - Boise State University  
  • nancyglenn@boisestate.edu
  • Role: Co-PI
Anita Frederick
Tribal Nations Research Group
  • anita@tnrg.org
  • Role: Co-PI
Todd Daniels
Associate Director, Solution & Program Development - Montana State University  
  • todd.daniels@montana.edu
  • Role: Co-PI
Division of Research & Economic Develpment
UND Tech Accelerator, Suite 2050
James Ray Dr Stop 8367
Grand Forks, ND 58202
P 701.777.3924
F 701.777.2492
vpr@UND.edu
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