Top Gun

The Office of Research and Economic Development acts as the liaison office for business and industry, supporting economic development with the assistance of University of Maine resources. The department also acts as the University technology transfer office, handling patenting, licensing, and commercialization activities for the University of Maine. The University of Maine averages 10 new patent applications per year 2-3 new technology licenses, 2-3 new spin-off companies and hundreds of joint R&D projects with existing companies. The office supports federal and state government relations for the University’s R&D and Economic Development mission.  Mr. Ward has worked at the University of Maine since 1990 and held previous positions overseeing Industrial Cooperation, and Research and Sponsored Programs. Mr. Ward actively supports research leading to economic development projects at the University of Maine and in partnerships with many state and non-profit programs.  He sits on the boards of the Maine Technology Institute (MTI), the Maine Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), the Applied Technology Development Centers, the Composites Technology Development Center, the Bangor Area Target Development Corporation and the Maine Composites Alliance. Mr. Ward is also a member of many national organizations including the Association of University Technology Mangers, the National Council of University Research Administrators, the National Business Incubation Association and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.  He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and an M.S. in Ocean Engineering from the University of New Hampshire. Jake is also on the Top Gun Board of Advisors.