Frank Popielas

Frank Popielas is an Executive Consultant for CIMdata in the Simulation-Driven Systems Development (SDSD) Practice, focusing on the integration of physics-based behavior modeling and simulation technologies and processes with systems level engineering methodologies and tools— commonly referred to today as Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).

Mr. Popielas brings to CIMdata over 20 years of global experience in product engineering, R&D, and IP management, as well as testing and materials development, with a specific focus on the development and application of multi-physics and multi-domain modeling and simulation tools. This included the definition and implementation of the required supporting IT infrastructure for simulation data and process management at Dana Holding Corporation. His expertise includes technology exchange and transfer, business assessments in engineering, and manufacturing, focusing on virtual product engineering, as well as process development and democratization of software applications in this area.

Mr. Popielas has been a member of the NAFEMS Americas Steering Committee since 2011 and founding chairman of the joint System Modeling and Simulation Working Group (SMSWG) between NAFEMS and INCOSE since 2013. His activities and achievements include over 35 granted patents on the areas of sealing, shielding, and fuel cells; over 30 publications covering all the mentioned areas with a focus on virtual product engineering, its tools and practices; numerous presentations and speaking engagements at industry conferences and various companies; interviews, case studies, and teaching engagements at high schools and community colleges. He is also the managing partner and co-founder of SMS_ThinkTank.

Mr. Popielas was born in Germany, and received his MSc degree in Engineering, majoring in Theoretical Physics, from the Technological University (MIS&A – Institute for Steels and Alloys) in Moscow, Russia. He is fluent in English, German, and Russian.