Jones to lead Center for Battlefield Innovation
A leading technology industry executive will oversee a new Mississippi State University research center dedicated to developing cutting-edge solutions for the nation's armed forces.
Henry L. Jones II has been named director of the recently launched Center for Battlefield Innovation, also known as Battle Forge.
Headquartered in Vicksburg, the new center is a collaboration between the land-grant institution and the defense contractor Mav6, which was named by Inc. magazine as the second-fastest-growing private company in Mississippi earlier this year. Jones will also serve as chief technology officer for Mav6.
Jones has an extensive track record of accomplishments with several successful technology companies in the defense, disaster response, finance and energy industries.
"We are excited about partnering with Mav6, and believe that it will be a catalyst for further expansion of the university's research enterprise, as well as foster high-tech economic opportunities in our state," said David Shaw, Mississippi State's vice president for research and economic development.
Jones is a 1995 graduate of the University of Mississippi, where he earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. He earned a master's degree and his Ph.D. in aeronautics and astronautics from Stanford University.
In his new role, Jones will work with Major Gen. Buford "Buff" Blount, U.S. Army (Retired), co-founder and chairman of Mav6, LLC, to leverage Battle Forge as an economic development engine for the state of Mississippi.
"Mississippians have shown their longstanding commitment to national defense, and resourcefulness in identifying new ways to secure the success and safety of our edgefighters. Dr. Jones will lead our efforts to tap into this pool of expertise," said Blount, the former commander of the 3rd Infantry Division who was named recently as chairman of the newly forming Mississippi Defense Initiative. (For additional information about Mav6 and to read more about its edgefighter concept, visit http://mav6.com.)
Contact Jones at hjones@research.msstate.edu or 601-619-7722.
Jim Laird | University Relations
