Professor Hartman’s research areas focus on the process and methodology for creating model-based definitions; examining the use of the model-based definition in the product lifecycle; developing the model-based enterprise; geometry automation; and data interoperability and re-use. He has been awarded over $9,000,000 in research funding to support his work, primarily from industrial and manufacturing corporations. Professor Hartman’s industry research partners include Rolls Royce, Cummins, Boeing, GM, Rockwell Collins, Textron, Gulfstream, Procter & Gamble, GM, Honda, and others. He has also done funded research work through NSF, DMDII, and NIST programs.

Professor Hartman currently teaches courses in 3D modeling, virtual collaboration, 3D data interoperability, and graphics standards and data exchange. Professor Hartman also leads a team in the development and delivery of online PLM and MBD professional education certificate programs for Purdue’s various industry partners. He also works closely with the Ivy Tech Community College system around design technologies and digital manufacturing curricula to support Indiana’s education and workforce development needs. Professor Hartman holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Purdue University and a Doctorate from North Carolina State University. Dr. Hartman spent over seven years working in industry for Fairfield Manufacturing Company, Caterpillar, and Rand Worldwide. During his time at Fairfield Manufacturing, he worked in various machining groups and in tool design. Upon joining Caterpillar, Professor Hartman worked in the 3600 Engine Series engineering group, where he designed components for the engine and served in the transition group that implemented 3D solid modeling technology and trained other users. At Rand Worldwide, he was responsible for the development and delivery of training curriculum for the use of 3D CAD and product data management tools, as well as an assessment and training program for Caterpillar, John Deere, and Motorola that included over 3000 people.