has worked in the defense, aviation and IT industries. His involvement includes experiences with both software and hardware design. He is knowledgeable in the fields of device interface hardware, hardware design languages (HDLs and VHDLs), and software development in a number of programming languages. Prior to joining SVEWG, Mr. Merriam worked as a software engineer with L-3 Communications: Marine Systems, developing control systems. He received his BSEE from Saint Louis University, of Saint Louis, MO.