Advancing Autonomous Systems Technologies in the Northern Front
The Northern Front team (North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana and Idaho) is establishing a strong, sustainable, cooperative and technology-driven innovation ecosystem focused on Autonomous Systems.
This ecosystem leverages existing strengths and collaborations across the region to develop solutions in key needs areas, including transportation, agriculture, mining, energy, health care, and national security. The Northern Front Autonomous Systems Engine (NFASE) will drive Autonomous Systems (AS) development through all phases, from concept development/market evaluation to prototyping to test and validation to deployment/commercialization. Throughout these steps, market demand/need, basic and applied research, and workforce development will be leveraged as key enablers.
Who We Are
This effort is building an engine to expand use of AS in rural communities in four northern-tier states through industry, academic and tribal partnerships. This includes preparation of the future workforce by engaging all stakeholders and expanding participation of underrepresented groups.
- University of North Dakota
- Tribal Nations Research Group
- South Dakota School of Mines & Technology
- Montana State University & MiTech
- Boise State University
Outcomes and Broader Impacts
Through the currently funded Type 1 effort, NFASE will produce numerous key outcomes, including:
- An Implementation Plan for NFASE, including:
- Delineation of organizational structure and roles
- Contractual/Legal framework
- Public-Private Partnership Plan
- Commercialization Plan
- Workforce Development Plan
- A cohesive team that comprises a nascent NSF engine
Key Personnel
- mark.askelson@UND.edu
- Role: PI/PD
- thomasine.heitkamp@UND.edu
- Role: Senior Personnel
- christopher.theisen@UND.edu
- Role: Executive Director, RIAS
- Role: Program Manager
- joseph.shaw@montana.edu
- Role: Co-PI
- robert.hall@sdsmt.edu
- Role: Co-PI
- nancyglenn@boisestate.edu
- Role: Co-PI
- anita@tnrg.org
- Role: Co-PI
- todd.daniels@montana.edu
- Role: Co-PI
How to Work With Us
Interested in partnering with the Northern Front Autonomous Systems Engine (NFASE)? We are building a collaborative ecosystem across North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Idaho—and we’d love to work with you.
Whether you represent industry, academia, tribal nations, or government, our team is here to connect you with opportunities in research, innovation, and workforce development.