The University of Florida Innovation Station (UFIS) at the Research and Education Engineering Facility (REEF) is an extension of the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering. The UFIS-REEF is tasked with establishing and growing partnerships with the private, academic, and public sectors in Northwest Florida, with a focus on growing the region’s innovation economy.

Established by UF in 1969 as the Eglin Graduate Center, and in its present facility since 1995, the REEF has offered courses and curricula that lead to Masters and Doctorate degree programs in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering and Industrial Systems Engineering. With the expansion of services supporting K-12 Outreach, Industry Engagement and additional workforce development programs, the UFIS-REEF will build upon a strong tradition of support for the regional economy.

Located adjacent to Eglin Air Force Base (EAFB) in Shalimar, Florida, the REEF supports the greater community and responds to Air Force research needs. REEF students gain valuable experience while working with world-class researchers from UF and the Air Force on a wide range of relevant and challenging research topics with expertise in solid mechanics, autonomy and data science.