Celebrating Excellence: Marvin Sellers Receives 2024 AIAA Ground Testing Award

At Axient, we take immense pride in recognizing the outstanding achievements of our team members. Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight Marvin Sellers, a true expert in the field, who has been honored with the prestigious 2024 AIAA Ground Testing Award. This accolade, awarded by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), recognizes Marvin’s decades-long contributions to the national ground test and evaluation community, with a particular focus on his pioneering work in pressure-sensitive paint (PSP) techniques.

Marvin, a Subject Matter Expert in Flight Wind Tunnels, has been a key part of our team for years. His journey with Axient began under the legacy QuantiTech company when the TMAS contract started at Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC). With 43 years of experience in the field, Marvin’s expertise and innovative spirit have driven significant advancements in wind tunnel testing. His contributions include continuous sweep testing for enhanced data productivity, the development of an auto-trim capability for remote control wind tunnel models, and the revival of the Wings-Level-Yaw capability in the 16T wind tunnel.

David Yoder, Aerodynamics Branch Lead at AEDC’s 716th Test Squadron, praises Marvin’s work, saying, “Marvin’s contributions to aerodynamic wind tunnel testing cannot be overstated. He is our go-to SME for everything from stability and control testing, new test methods, rapid capability needs, and data acquisition systems. I’m very honored to have Marvin on the team, and his work ethic, can-do attitude, and output are second to none.”

When asked about his experiences at Axient, Marvin shared his appreciation for the small company environment that values technical expertise. “I have little interest in management, preferring to increase my technical knowledge,” Marvin explained. His passion for his work is evident, particularly in his pride for his achievements in PSP, where AEDC leads the world in capability. Marvin’s expertise in PSP is recognized globally, further underscoring his impact on the industry.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Marvin has a few surprises up his sleeve. In his earlier years, he was an avid hang glider pilot, which later transitioned into a love for sailing catamarans and windsurfing on the lake next to AEDC. And if that wasn’t enough, Marvin is also an accomplished crocheter, having won Best in Show at the County Fair in Manchester, TN.

We are incredibly proud to have Marvin Sellers as part of the Axient family. His dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence have not only advanced our capabilities but have also set a high standard within the industry. Congratulations, Marvin, on this well-deserved recognition! We look forward to seeing the continued impact of your work in the years to come.