The problem is how to best distribute pending major investment in AWE R&D.

It was hoped that the ARPA-E contest, NASA, & similar third-party expertise
could form a basis for a rational allocation of investor provided research
funding, but there seems to be no short-term possibility of this role.

We are left with an internal peer-review model that includes traditions such as
restrictions on conflict-of-interest. WOW America is therefore urgently
convening a Technical Advisory Board to determine how funding should be
allocated to the AWE community.

The ideal board member has a resume like Chris Carlin or Dave Lang; decades of
broad aerospace experience and excellence. This would be a paid position, but
may require a period of "sweat equity" effort.

Certain priniciples are likely to apply. Duplicative programs will have to merge
or a winner determined. Best financial & management standards with full
auditability will be desired. Continued funding will substantially depend on
meeting clear performance milestones in a prompt economic fashion.