Keynote Speaker 

President L-3 Combat Propulsion Systems, and native of Romania  
Michael S. Soimar was appointed president of L-3 CPS in February 2005 and is responsible for planning, organizing and managing the development, production and support of five lines of propulsion products: engines, transmissions, turret drives, suspensions and tank components. Mr. Soimar is currently broadening L-3 CPS’ product line by the introduction of new, innovative, high power density engines, hybrid electric drive, alternative and renewable energy systems, alternative fuels and fuel cell technologies. The L-3 CPS division is a direct descendant of and is committed to continuing the legacy of Continental Motors Corporation, founded more than100 years ago in Muskegon and known around the world as a premier engine and propulsion systems manufacturer.

Mr. Soimar started his career as a faculty member of the Technical University of Bucharest where, for several years, he taught Applied Thermodynamics and Propulsion Engineering.  Mr. Soimar holds a Master of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Technical University of Bucharest and has completed Ph.D. studies in the field of internal combustion engines. He has authored more than 25 technical articles for scientific journals, including three SAE papers and four textbooks and holds three US patents in engineering related fields.

A question and answer period will follow the presentation. A reception of ethnic foods will be provided from 6:30 – 7:00pm and following the presentation.