In today’s high-stakes operational environments, the margin for error has evaporated, driving an unprecedented demand for high-fidelity virtual training systems that can simulate the unpredictability of the real world. As global defense needs evolve, the efficacy of military simulation training has become a strategic cornerstone, requiring leaders who don’t just understand the software but who fundamentally grasp the human element of readiness. To ensure these systems translate into superior battlefield performance, the industry relies on visionaries who can bridge the gap between technical innovation and tactical execution.
In a move that reinforces its role at the forefront of this evolution, The DiSTI Corporation is pleased to share that Director of Programs Scott Ariotti has been selected to helm the 2027 Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference (I/ITSEC) as Program Chair—the most prestigious leadership post within the world’s largest modeling and simulation forum.
A Career Built on Vision, Execution, and Industry Trust
Scott Ariotti’s appointment is the culmination of more than 30 years spent at the intersection of aerospace technology and high-stakes simulation. In his current capacity as Director of Programs at DiSTI, Scott acts as a vital bridge between complex technical requirements and the operational realities of the end-user. He doesn’t just manage projects; he orchestrates the delivery of sophisticated training ecosystems that empower military and commercial operators to perform with precision in high-pressure environments.
Under his guidance, DiSTI has continued to push the boundaries of immersive technology, prioritizing mission effectiveness and the safety of those who rely on virtual training solutions to master their craft.
The path to the 2027 Program Chair began in a much humbler setting. Looking back to 1994, Scott recalls his very first I/ITSEC—not as a leader, but as an aspiring professional carpooling to the event, eager to soak in the industry’s collective knowledge. That early experience sparked a lifelong commitment to the simulation community. Over the years, he has transitioned from an attendee to a dedicated contributor, serving across multiple subcommittees focused on training and emerging technologies. This journey from a front-row learner to a leadership-track visionary reflects a career defined by a commitment to giving back—supporting the same community that has been instrumental in shaping his professional identity.
The Journey to the Podium: A 30-Year Evolution
Scott’s rise within the I/ITSEC leadership track is a direct reflection of the culture of excellence he has helped cultivate since joining The DiSTI Corporation. As a cornerstone of the leadership team, he manages a specialized group of Program Managers who are responsible for delivering high-fidelity virtual operation and maintenance training applications. His day-to-day work involves navigating the high-stakes requirements of U.S. and international military clients, ensuring that every solution delivered under his watch meets the rigorous demands of modern warfighters.
This deep-rooted commitment to technical excellence is why DiSTI is so invested in Scott’s six-year leadership journey. By supporting his progression through the conference’s highest levels, the company is reinforcing its own dedication to the modeling, simulation, and training (MS&T) community.
For DiSTI, Scott’s appointment isn’t just a personal accolade; it reflects an organizational commitment to shaping the future of training technology across emerging domains such as software defined vehicle ecosystems and HMI development training, ensuring innovation remains collaborative, mission-focused, and operationally relevant.
The Six-Year Leadership Commitment (2026–2031)
Scott’s selection marks the beginning of an intensive, multi-year commitment to the I/ITSEC organization. This journey represents a marathon of service, where each year he will take on ascending levels of responsibility to ensure the continued excellence of the world’s premier simulation event.
- The Foundation of Strategy: Beginning as Deputy Program Chair in 2026, Scott will lay the groundwork for the conference’s technical and educational direction.
- The 2027 Vision: In his cornerstone year as Program Chair, Scott will be the primary architect of the conference’s programmatic success, shaping the global conversation on training technology.
- Conference Leadership: His influence continues to expand as he serves as Deputy Conference Chair in 2028 and ascends to the pinnacle role of Conference Chair in 2029, overseeing the entire scope of the event.
- Legacy and Mentorship: Following his chairship, he will continue to give back as Scholarship Co-Chair in 2030, fostering the next generation of MS&T talent.
- The Council of Wisdom: The journey culminates in 2031 as Chair of the Council of Chairs, where he will provide senior-level guidance to ensure the conference’s long-term sustainability and impact.
Corporate Synergy: DiSTI’s Mission and NTSA Partnership
The DiSTI Corporation, an Orlando-based company specializing in virtual simulation and training solutions, has been a proud member of NTSA for 30 years and a Sustaining Member for over a decade. This deep-rooted commitment to technical excellence and HMI development training is why the company is so invested in supporting this long-term leadership progression. By bridging the gap between sophisticated interface design and immersive simulation, DiSTI ensures that the next generation of operators is equipped with the most intuitive and effective tools available. DiSTI’s core values align closely with the I/ITSEC community and the branches of service it supports, representing a strategic pledge to remain at the center of the industry’s most critical conversations.
Conclusion
The expertise Scott brings to his leadership role is mirrored in the comprehensive suite of solutions DiSTI provides to the global market. From our pioneering GL Studio® HMI development tool—which has set the gold standard for high-performance, safety-critical interfaces—to our advanced immersive training applications, DiSTI continues to redefine the boundaries of human-machine interaction. Our offerings span the full spectrum of the training lifecycle, providing military and commercial clients with the tools to build, deploy, and manage complex virtual maintenance and operation trainers with unparalleled fidelity.
This prestigious leadership track is far more than an individual achievement; it is a powerful affirmation of DiSTI’s enduring role in architecting the global training landscape. The company looks forward to continuing its legacy of innovation, collaboration, and leadership as Scott helps guide the future of this premier global event. As he navigates this multi-year roadmap of influence, the insights garnered from the heart of I/ITSEC will further sharpen DiSTI’s ability to deliver world-class training solutions that transform the way organizations train, interact with technology, and achieve peak operational readiness.
For those seeking to enhance operational readiness through DiSTI’s advanced virtual maintenance training solutions, we invite you to connect with our team. Please reach out to sales@disti.com to learn how our expertise can support your mission-critical objectives.
