Welcome back to On the Move, the podcast from the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at Texas A&M University. In this episode, host Chelsea Reber is joined by Dr. Steve Riechman and Dr. Jim Fluckey to discuss one of the most innovative developments in human performance research at Texas A&M: the new Tactical Human Performance and Thermoregulation Lab.

Dr. Riechman shares the vision behind the Southern Heat Initiative, a groundbreaking study that uses artificial intelligence and large population data to better understand individual heat tolerance and predict heat response in real-time. Dr. Fluckey explains how the lab’s state-of-the-art environmental chamber offers hands-on learning for students and research opportunities that extend far beyond exercise science—impacting fields like wearable tech, agriculture, and public safety. From supporting military and first responders to training future researchers, this lab is set to become a vital hub for applied performance science.

Tune in to learn how this cutting-edge facility is opening doors for interdisciplinary innovation and preparing the next generation of leaders in kinesiology and beyond.

To learn more about the Department of Kinesiology and Sport Management at TAMU, visit https://knsm.tamu.edu/ 

Host: Chelsea Reber

Guests: Dr. Steve Riechman, Associate Professor, Texas A&M University

Dr. Jim Fluckey, Associate Dean for Research, Texas A&M University

Timestamps:

(00:00 - 02:34 ) Introduction

(02:35 - 05:08 ) Motives for Coming to A&M

(05:09 - 08:10 ) New Tactical Human Performance and Thermoregulation Lab

(08:11 - 09:28 ) Factors for Heat Tolerance

(09:29 - 10:32 ) Creating the Ideal Lab

(10:33 - 12:21 ) Benefits for Undergraduates and Graduates

(12:22 - 13:08 ) Benefits for Military, Fire, Police, and First Responders

(13:09 - 17:59 ) Support from the College and Wide Range of Chamber Usage

(18:00 - 18:32 ) Grand Opening

(18:33 - 20:20 ) Chamber Specs

(20:21 - 20:52 ) Final Thoughts

(20:53 - 21:20 ) Closing