A place to test new ideas

Since 1998, the Center for Engineering Concepts Development has served as a place to test new ideas in research, in education, and in how engineering meets the needs of the country. What began as a center focused on Energetic Materials has grown into a platform that supports the people, programs, and partnerships behind that work.

Our Vision

Experiment with new ideas.

To serve as a platform for experimenting with new ideas in engineering education, future technologies, research, and the impact of engineering on society.

Our Mission

Maryland and the Nation.

To benefit the economic welfare of Maryland and the Nation by supporting research, symposia, courses, and other activities of contemporary interest to engineering and national security.

Energetics at the core.

Energetics research is the Center's primary focus and the throughline of its history. In partnership with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division, the Office of Naval Research, the Army Research Laboratory, and other federal sponsors, the Center works across the full arc of Energetic Materials, from formulation and Manufacturing to packaging, testing, and the systems that use them.

Just as important is the training of the next generation of scientists and engineers who will carry this work forward through the Center's graduate research and educational programs.

Federal sponsors include

  • Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Division
  • Office of Naval Research
  • Army Research Laboratory
  • And other federal partners