Bobby Hodges, CTO, Nevada Automotive Test Center
September 25, 2025 | 12:00 EDT / 18:00 CEST / 01:00 JST (next day) (tentative)
MTVR Mud
NATC Logo
Nevada Automotive Test Center (NATC) is a recognized leader in developmental and production tire testing for both commercial and military vehicle platforms, supported by a dedicated tire testing division. A long-time supporter of the ISTVS conference, NATC will present a talk focused on the critical mobility factors that influence ground vehicle performance.
This session will explore the historical evolution of NATC and the technical foundations that define critical mobility elements in ground vehicles, examining the engineering principles and performance factors that enable effective movement across diverse and challenging terrains.
>> NATC website
S P E A K E R B I O
Robert “Bobby” Hodges is the Chief Technical Officer at the Nevada Automotive Test Center (NATC) in Silver Springs, NV, where he leads seven engineering groups delivering technical solutions for commercial and government ground vehicle programs. A third-generation owner, he assumed oversight of NATC in 2021 alongside his sisters, continuing the company’s legacy while adapting to evolving industry needs.
From 2018–2022, Mr. Hodges managed NATC’s core testing competencies: steering and handling, durability, safety, ride quality, winter mobility, tires, accident reconstructions, vehicle modification kit design and development, and ultra-light vehicle evaluations. Mr. Hodges led engineering programs directly in support of the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army, U.S. Special Operations Command, and international governments. He holds a mechanical engineering degree from California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo, and is an ANSI-ROHVA certified driver training instructor and recognized Subject Matter Expert for the U.S. Marine Corps.
A lifelong racer, Mr. Hodges has competed since age 11, with career highlights including being named an alternate on Racing America's All-Star Super Late Model Racing Team in 2017, after being ranked 6th in the country as an amateur that year.
https://natc-ht.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-hodges-6a193098/
Certificate of Attendance provided on request: To request a Certificate of Attendance after attending the event, please email gs@istvs.org. Your attendance will be verified, and the certificate will be issued.