Keith Molina

2005, Electrical Engineering, Maui, Maui, Mechanical Engineering, R&D, Software Development

Keith Molina is currently enrolled at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He is a candidate for a Bachelors of Science degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science with a minor in Mechanical Engineering for June of 2008. Born and raised on Maui, Keith graduated from Lahainaluna High School where he played varsity football and soccer and was awarded the valedictorian’s medal for his outstanding academic achievements. Upon finishing his degree at MIT, Keith hopes to start his career in the engineering field and, if possible, come back to live and work on Maui. In his spare time Keith likes to play his ukulele, participate in various sports, go to the beach, and hang out with friends.

Home Island: Maui
High School: Lahainaluna High School
Institution when accepted: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Akamai Project: Mobile Modular Command Center (M2C2): Advanced Training Technologies for an Advanced Vehicle 
Project Site: Akimeka LLC
Mentor: Ryan Harris

Project Abstract:

The Mobile Modular Command Center (M2C2) U.S. Marine Corps operated vehicle, equipped with the most advanced computer and networking systems and coupled with a state of the art multifunctional antenna, is one of the many technologically advanced machines being developed by today’s military.    The M2C2 requires a new class of Marine radio operator who can maximize the vehicle’s performance and therefore boost Joint Early Entry Package (JEEP) efficiency through increased command and control.   This project focused on filling in the gaps in current training protocol for a radio operator of the U.S. Marine Corps so that they may pilot M2C2 operations. An additional goal of the project was to discover new and innovative ways of training Marines to operate in the M2C2 cockpit.  From these findings, a proposal was created outlining our methods and ideas.  Various methods were used to complete this project.   First, the team conducted an analysis of the current education and training programs of a Marine radio operator along with gap identification and mapping.    Then they performed research and analysis of various training opportunities and methods that are available to military and commercial markets.    The team then compiled the collected data, which led to the conclusion that immersive training by means of interactive role playing video games and simulations are the most effective means of military training for combat readiness.  Finally, the team determined that a combination of these methods through an advanced interactive simulation portal equipped on every M2C2 vehicle will help Marine radio operators close gaps in their current U.S. Marine Corps training.  This portal will enable go anywhere and just in time learning that will greatly improve efficiency and reliability on any battlefield.