Hugo Neu Corporation Sustainability Seminar Series: "The Hidden Footprint of the Digital Battlefield" How AI, Autonomous Systems, Sensors, and Data Are Changing Defense Sustainability
Department of Civil, Environmental, and Ocean Engineering
Speaker: Nicholas D'Ambrosio, Ph.D., GISP, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of NOMADICS
ABSTRACT
As artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, sensors, and digital communications play an increasingly important role in defense operations, they bring both new capabilities and new sustainability challenges. This seminar explores the hidden environmental and logistical footprint of modern defense technologies, from energy demands and battery dependence to data infrastructure, electronic waste, and critical-material supply chains. The presentation will examine whether digital technologies truly reduce operational burdens or simply shift them to new areas, while highlighting practical approaches such as modular design, repairability, component recovery, and digital twins. Attendees will gain insight into how future defense systems can be designed to remain resilient, sustainable, and mission-ready in an increasingly complex technological landscape.
BIOGRAPHY
Nicholas D’Ambrosio, Ph.D., GISP is the CEO and Founder of NOMADICS, a nationally recognized firm specializing in geospatial intelligence, data analytics, and defense engineering. With nearly 20 years of experience, he has led technology and intelligence solutions for public, private, and defense-sector clients, supporting major initiatives including the Deepwater Horizon oil spill response, FEMA Hurricane Irma response, and Operation Warp Speed. Dr. D’Ambrosio holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science & Management, a Master of Science in Sustainability Science, and a Master of Arts in Environmental Policy Studies, and is credentialed as a GISP (Geographic Information Systems Professional). He also serves as a defense engineering specialist supporting the Department of Defense and the U.S. Navy Office of Naval Research. As an adjunct faculty member, he has taught GIS, environmental, and engineering courses at Seton Hall University, Rutgers University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Montclair State University, County College of Morris, and Passaic County Community College. He has received numerous honors, including the Garden State Green Award Professor of the Year, the ANJEC Environmental Achievement Award, and recognition among the MSN Business Entrepreneurs of 2025 and Military Engineer Faces of Federal Business 2025.
Zoom Link:
https://stevens.zoom.us/j/99998532806
Website:
https://www.stevens.edu/sustainability-seminar-series
Jointly Sponsored by:
HUGO NEU Corporation
WSP
HDR
NOMADICS
H2M Architects and Engineers
Dewberry
Contact:
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