ECS Named Recipient of GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch Distinguished Alumni Award

GrowFL is thrilled to announce that Engineering and Computer Simulations (ECS) received the Florida Companies to Watch (FLCTW) Distinguished Alumni Award at an awards ceremony, Feb. 15.

Inspired by Barbara Stankowski, a 2012 honoree and last year’s alumni award recipient, this prestigious award recognizes past honorees who have demonstrated continued growth, innovation, and resilience since their initial recognition. Waymon Armstrong, ECS founder and CEO, accepted the award from Stankowski at the 13^th Annual GrowFL FLCTW’s awards celebration in February.

Under Armstrong’s leadership, ECS has distinguished itself as a leader in global training and technology solutions. With a commitment to harnessing advanced technologies to enhance workforce proficiency and operational readiness, ECS has revolutionized training methodologies across various industries, including military, aviation/aerospace, medical and logistics.

ECS’ innovative training solutions that integrate cutting-edge technologies, such as augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and digital twin environments, have set new standards for effectiveness and efficiency. Recent projects that have improved virtual empathy skills training and tactical combat casualty care simulation, highlight ECS’ commitment to extending the boundaries of training and simulation.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Waymon Armstrong and his ECS team – you are the epitome of what this award represents,” Stankowski said. “You are an inspiration to all entrepreneurs who strive to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Your leadership, innovation, and resilience have propelled your company to new heights of success and excellence. I am honored to call you a friend and a fellow GrowFL [FLCTW] honoree.”

Since ECS’ recognition as an honoree in 2011, the company has demonstrated remarkable growth by doubling its annual gross revenue and increasing its full-time staff by almost 50%. As their growth continues, ECS serves as a shining example of the entrepreneurial spirit that drives Florida’s economy forward.

Armstrong remains deeply committed to giving back to his community and fellow entrepreneurs. Through his extensive involvement in various nonprofit organizations and mentorship initiatives, Armstrong exemplifies the spirit of servant leadership. He actively supports local nonprofits, dedicating his time and resources to organizations like the Orlando Science Center, the Camaraderie Foundation, and Junior Achievement. His passion for entrepreneurship extends beyond his own ventures as he regularly mentors aspiring entrepreneurs, sharing invaluable insights and lessons learned from his own journey.

“Waymon was one of the first people I met in our tech and innovation ecosystem when I joined The Corridor in 2020,” said Paul Sohl, Florida High Tech Corridor CEO. “Before talking business, he wanted to know about family. That’s who Waymon is — the magical mixture of strategic visionary, dedicated father, and trusted friend.  We can all strive to be a bit more like Waymon every day. There is no one more deserving of this award.”

Only about 650 companies headquartered in Florida have been a GrowFL FLCTW honoree, which is a requirement to qualify for the alumni award.

“I ‘ve always believed that there’s no higher calling than to be an entrepreneur, putting men and women to work, and being a part of their journey to achieve their goals,” Armstrong said. “Knowing the opportunities that ECS has provided hard-working people, which challenged them, developed them as professionals, and helped them achieve their potential is something, frankly, that I’m very proud of. I’m incredibly grateful for this honor, and it serves as great validation – for me and my team at ECS – that we’ve followed the path that was intended for us in serving the warfighter.”

GrowFL is driven by one goal – to cultivate second-stage growth companies across the Sunshine State. Second-stage companies are the backbone of Florida’s economy and represent the definition of economic success and prosperity. With at least six employees and $750,000 in revenue, these companies demonstrate the intent and desire to grow. GrowFL provides proven methods to help overcome unique challenges facing second-stage companies as they grow through diverse programs and services. To learn more about GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch, please visit: https://growfl.com/about-growfl-flctw/.