Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) Company Profile

Background

Founded in 1979, Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is a 100% employee-owned scientific research and engineering firm headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The company is dedicated to solving critical national problems to enhance safety, security, and quality of life. ARA's mission is to provide science and engineering research, technical support services, specialty products, and integrated solutions to address issues of national importance. Their vision is to be the go-to company for government and industry seeking innovative technologies and solutions to critical human problems, aiming to make the world safer and more secure.

Key Strategic Focus

ARA specializes in delivering innovative solutions across several sectors:

National Security: Providing technologies to assess, detect, deter, defeat, and respond to threats both domestically and internationally.

Infrastructure: Enhancing the performance and sustainability of transportation, building, and energy systems.

Health Solutions: Offering specialized research, technology services, testing, and product development in health science and engineering.

Energy & Environment: Developing engineering services and products for alternative fuels and the power and utility services market.

Financials and Funding

As of 2023, ARA reported a revenue of approximately $370 million, with $247 million derived from defense contracts and $122 million from civilian projects. The company employs around 1,700 individuals.

Technological Platform and Innovation

ARA is recognized for its proprietary technologies and innovative solutions, including:

HurLoss®: A state-of-the-art hurricane model used for catastrophe modeling in the insurance industry.

ReadiJet®: A biofuel that powered the first 100-percent biofuels test flight, aiming to produce biofuel at prices competitive with fossil fuels.

First Responder Support Tools (FiRST): Mobile applications providing critical, map-based information to support incident response for first responders and emergency managers.

Leadership Team

Dr. Robert H. Sues: President and CEO

Curt Beckenmeyer: Deputy CEO

Michael Royer: Chief Financial Officer

Elizabeth Fisk: Director of Corporate Operations

Allen York: Chief Systems Officer

James Kainz: Senior Vice President, Business Development

William Goodman: Senior Vice President, Government Relations

George Ullrich: Senior Vice President, Strategy Development

Eduardo Moas: Senior Vice President, Analytic, Software, and Engineering Solutions

John Perry: Vice President, Sector 6

William Ratliff: Vice President, Integrated Mission Systems Sector

David Timian: Senior Vice President, Automation and Geosciences Sector

William Vavrik: Vice President, Transportation and Infrastructure

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics: ARA operates in a competitive landscape with several key players offering similar services. Notable competitors include:

Los Alamos National Laboratory: Engages in strategic science for national security.

HII Mission Technologies: Develops integrated solutions for government and commercial customers.

HAVELSAN: Provides technology-based software-intensive solutions.

Sierra Nevada Corporation: Offers open architecture technology and system integration solutions.

Draper: Develops space and weapon systems.

AMERICAN SYSTEMS: Provides IT and engineering solutions.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

ARA has engaged in significant collaborations to enhance its capabilities:

Virtual Heroes Division: Acquired in 2009, this division specializes in serious games and 3D computer simulations for training applications.

Operational Insights

ARA's employee-owned structure fosters a culture of innovation and commitment, enabling the company to deliver high-quality solutions across various sectors. Their diversified expertise positions them to address complex challenges effectively.