Welcome and insights from Macomb County Planning and Economic Development and the Macomb County Chamber
Thank you for being a member of our A&D Intel Quarterly newsletter community. This latest edition is a departure from our previous communications - with more stories, news and updates for our readers. We will be continuing to make changes in future newsletters, so stay tuned, and in the meantime, if you have a story idea or your organization would like to be featured, reach out to megan.ochmanek@macombgov.org. Your partnership with this content is essential as we look to share Macomb County's dynamic aerospace and defense story.
Partner stories
Macomb County's defense economic impact reaches new heights with F-15 Mission
Macomb County's position as Michigan's aerospace and defense epicenter continues to strengthen, with Director of Planning and Economic Development Vicky Rowinski reporting impressive growth metrics that extend far beyond regional borders. After 12 years of strategic development, the county's defense sector now encompasses over 1,000 establishments supporting a workforce exceeding 50,000 professionals.
"When we look at that workforce and what they are touching, it's pretty significant to the modernization of both the Army as well as the Air Force," Rowinski explained. "We have engineers that understand and can speak both languages, which is pretty amazing for us."
The economic impact extends well beyond job creation. Defense contracts and procurement centered around the Detroit Arsenal and land vehicle programs bring over $3 billion into the region annually. This substantial influx demonstrates why Macomb County truly serves as the epicenter of aerospace and defense activity, with companies along defense corridors building critical components for modern aircraft including the incoming F-15s, KC-46 tankers, and other advanced systems.
International recognition and local impact
The county's quarterly Aerospace and Defense Newsletter has evolved from a local communication tool to an international resource, reaching defense professionals and businesses across borders. "This newsletter started off with more of a local feel, but it has expanded beyond just our borders. It has a definite international reach when we're talking to businesses as well as other individuals that play within the Department of Defense," Rowinski noted.
The arrival of F-15s at Selfridge Air National Guard Base represents a significant milestone for the region. Unlike previous uncertainties about base missions, this announcement brings a net gain of approximately 300 jobs to the area. "Had we not received these F-15s, we were looking at potential cuts to Selfridge around that 300 mark. So we're sitting in the positive," Rowinski emphasized.
Looking forward: Quality of life and continued growth
The county's success in attracting and retaining military personnel and defense contractors stems from more than just economic opportunities. Families arriving for military assignments often discover Macomb County's quality of life advantages and choose to stay permanently. "They come here and they think maybe perhaps they're being penalized. Like, why Michigan? But ultimately what they find is it's so family friendly that they don't want to leave," Rowinski observed.
With the 250th anniversary of the Department of the Army approaching and continued participation in national defense conferences like AUSA in Washington D.C., Macomb County's message has shifted from advocacy to celebration. The region now stands ready to leverage its established aerospace and defense infrastructure for continued growth and innovation.
The county's strategic focus on collaboration between military installations, educational institutions, and private industry continues to yield results that benefit both national defense priorities and local economic development.
Chamber leads business community into new era of defense opportunities
Local businesses have a significant opportunity to capitalize on Macomb County's expanding aerospace and defense sector, according to Macomb County Chamber President and CEO Kelley Lovati. With seven years of experience building the Chamber's Aerospace and Defense Committee, Lovati sees the recent F-15 mission announcement as a game-changer for regional business development.
"I think it's about education, right? Looking at opportunities for some of our manufacturing, how they can pivot to the needs and being that resource," Lovati explained. The Chamber's committee, which evolved from "Military and Defense" to "Aerospace and Defense," reflects the strategic shift toward broader industry opportunities.
Partnership advantage creates business success
The unique collaboration between the Chamber and Macomb County's Economic Development team provides local businesses with an unprecedented support system. "It just shows the strength and that collaborating partnership we have when we look at the Chamber and the county working in the economic development," Lovati noted, emphasizing how this cooperation differentiates Macomb County from other regions.
The F-15 mission brings more than prestige to Selfridge Air National Guard Base—it represents substantial business potential. With 21 aircraft coming to the base (exceeding both normal fleets of 12 and super fleets of 18), the mission will generate opportunities across multiple business sectors. "We're going to see a surplus of people coming in. We're going to maintain and pivot some of those pilots that are A-10s," Lovati explained.
Navigating defense contracting successfully
For businesses ready to enter the defense marketplace, the path requires strategic preparation and expert guidance. Lovati points to successful local examples like RCO Engineering and numerous suppliers along the defense corridor who have built profitable relationships with defense contractors. However, she emphasizes the importance of understanding the requirements involved.
"When you get into those DOD contracts, there's a lot of requirements and training and red tape," Lovati acknowledged. The Chamber addresses this challenge by connecting businesses with organizations like Apex (formerly PTAC - Procurement Technical Assistance Centers) and Macomb Community College for necessary training and certifications.
The key to success lies in business flexibility and diversification. Companies that can adapt their existing capabilities to meet defense needs, whether through manufacturing pivots or service expansions, position themselves for sustainable growth in this sector.
Celebration and future growth
The Chamber's message for upcoming industry conferences, particularly the AUSA conference in Washington D.C., has fundamentally changed. "Our message has been a lot different. Since that announcement, we have a lot of things to celebrate," Lovati said. "I think when we go to AUSA this year, it'll be a grateful mission."
This celebratory tone reflects years of collaborative advocacy finally bearing fruit. Instead of lobbying for mission retention, the Chamber now promotes growth opportunities and showcases Macomb County's proven capabilities to potential defense partners.
Looking ahead, the Chamber continues building connections between local businesses and defense opportunities while preparing for major upcoming events, including the 2026 Selfridge Air National Guard open house and air show. For businesses interested in aerospace and defense opportunities, the Chamber's Aerospace and Defense Committee provides essential networking, education, and strategic guidance to navigate this complex but rewarding marketplace.
Local businesses ready to explore defense contracting opportunities can connect with the Chamber to learn about upcoming workshops, networking events, and partnership development programs designed specifically for the aerospace and defense sector.
Featured articles
Sparking innovation: Little Inventors program powers future aerospace and defense talent
Young inventors across Macomb County recently demonstrated that the future of aerospace and defense innovation is in capable hands. The Macomb Intermediate School District (MISD) Little Inventors program concluded its fifth challenge, "Energy: Feel the Power," in March 2025, inspiring students to develop creative solutions for energy generation, conservation, and efficiency.
The program represents a powerful collaboration between education and industry that's uniquely positioned to strengthen Macomb County's aerospace and defense ecosystem. Since early 2021, MISD has partnered with the MiSTEM Network to deliver exciting creative opportunities for young people, leveraging children's innate curiosity and connecting them with industry professionals in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.
Industry partnership drives innovation
The program's industry partners include aerospace and defense leaders such as Ascent Aerospace, PTI Engineered Plastics, Jay Enn Corporation, and STARBASE One, creating direct pathways between classroom creativity and real-world defense applications. These partnerships ensure that student inventions aren't just academic exercises—they're potential solutions to actual industry challenges.
The recent Energy Challenge asked students to "invent something that generated energy, saved energy, or used energy better," with examples ranging from harnessing energy from live orchestras to creating automated systems that turn off lights when rooms are empty. These aren't just childhood fantasies—they're the kind of innovative thinking that drives advancement in aerospace propulsion systems, satellite power management, and defense equipment efficiency.
Building tomorrow's defense workforce
The program's impact extends far beyond creative exercises. Macomb County is home to more than 1,100 aerospace and defense companies and has received over $65 billion in Department of Defense contracts since 2000. The county claims has 70,000 business owners and 1,700 unique STEM industries, all requiring an educated workforce.
With five successful challenges completed, the Little Inventors program has consistently connected winning student ideas with professional makers who bring these concepts to life. This process mirrors the defense industry's innovation pipeline, where creative problem-solving meets precision manufacturing and rigorous testing.
"The way we produce and use energy is the biggest reason for pollution on Earth," the challenge organizers explained to students. "But as inventors YOU can help to change that." This message resonates particularly strongly in defense applications, where energy efficiency can mean the difference between mission success and failure.
Regional advantage in STEM education
Macomb County's 21 school districts represent 239 schools working collaboratively with MISD leadership to provide rich educational experiences to over 130,000 K-12 students. This coordinated approach ensures that STEM education isn't limited to individual districts but leverages the collective strength of the region's aerospace and defense industry presence.
The program's structure—challenging students to solve real-world problems while connecting them with industry professionals—creates a natural talent pipeline for the defense sector. Students who participate in Little Inventors programs learn not just to think creatively, but to think like engineers, manufacturers, and problem-solvers who understand that innovation must be practical, scalable, and mission-critical.
Future impact
As Macomb County continues to strengthen its position as the "Arsenal of Democracy," programs like Little Inventors ensure that the next generation of aerospace and defense professionals will emerge from our own backyard. The energy and creativity demonstrated in the recent challenge showcase students who don't just dream about the future—they're already building it.
The collaboration between MISD, MiSTEM Network, and industry partners represents exactly the kind of strategic thinking that keeps Macomb County at the forefront of defense innovation. By investing in young inventors today, we're securing the technological advantage that our aerospace and defense industries will need tomorrow.
For more information about the Little Inventors program, visit misd.littleinventors.org.
A leader's journey home: Carrie Mead's transformational tenure at Detroit Arsenal
From Red Cross caseworker to "City Manager" of Michigan's premier defense installation
Sometimes life has a way of bringing us full circle. For Carrie Mead, that journey began in Detroit, took her around the world, and ultimately brought her back home to lead Michigan's only active-duty military installation through some of its most challenging and transformational years.
As Mead prepares to transition from her role as Garrison Manager at Detroit Arsenal to attend the Army War College this summer, she reflects on a career path that started with a simple decision: "I held up and married a boy in the Army." That choice at age 23 would shape not only her personal life but launch an extraordinary career serving military families and communities worldwide.
From caseworker to community leader
Mead never planned on spending over 20 years in the defense industry. Fresh out of college with a sociology degree from the University of Michigan, she was headed to UNC law school when love intervened. Following her future husband to North Carolina, then Colorado's Fort Carson, she discovered her true calling when traditional career paths weren't available.
"I wasn't able to get a job working in the defense industry or a job for what I had gone to school for, which is working with youth at risk," Mead recalls. "But I started picking up working service to the armed forces as a member of the American Red Cross when we moved to Germany back in 1997."
Those early years as a Red Cross caseworker shaped her leadership philosophy profoundly. "I was the person calling you to tell you that somebody in your family was ill or had died and we were gonna try and help you get back to be with your family at that critical time," she explains. That experience of caring for people during their most vulnerable moments would become the cornerstone of her approach to leadership.
Leading through crisis
Mead's talent for crisis leadership was perhaps most visible during the COVID-19 pandemic, which began just three months into her tenure as acting Garrison Manager. Her constant communication earned her the affectionate nickname "the COVID lady" among the Arsenal's 8,000-person workforce.
"Our mantra like every discussion we had the last question was like who else needs to know," Mead explains about their pandemic response strategy. "Sometimes you have to cast that communication a little more broadly." This approach—expanding rather than restricting information flow—represented a fundamental shift from traditional military "need to know" protocols.
The strategy worked. By maintaining transparent, frequent communication with state and local officials, neighboring installations like Selfridge, and the National Guard, Detroit Arsenal successfully navigated the pandemic while maintaining mission continuity.
The art of possible
As Garrison Manager, Mead describes her role simply: "I'd liken myself or best describe it as I'm the City Manager here of the Detroit Arsenal." Her responsibilities encompass everything from public works and fire services to emergency response, security, and morale, welfare, and recreation programs—all supporting the nearly 8,000 people who "buy, create, and take care of our soldiers with all of the equipment that they need to successfully win and fight our nation's wars."
What makes her role unique is that she's one of only seven civilians nationwide to hold a position typically reserved for a military colonel. "I think people don't realize the significant work that the civilian corps does here," she notes, "and how important what they do here is to keeping our lethality high and our soldiers safe."
Building community beyond the gates
Mead's influence extends far beyond the Arsenal's 181 acres. As Past President of Women in Defense – Michigan Chapter, she discovered the power of surrounding yourself with the right people. "You want to see what your future is, look around you, who are you surrounding yourself with?" she reflects. Her involvement began when she needed a mentor and evolved into leadership roles focused on "creating great women leaders in the defense space, creating strong networks, and bringing up the next generation."
Her commitment to Fisher House Michigan stems from a transformational moment during her executive leadership development program. After visiting a Fisher House at Fort Sam Houston, she was moved by "a very tangible way that we show how much we support our armed forces and our veterans by setting up these homes where their families can count on a safe space." She proudly notes the recent opening of Michigan's second Fisher House in Detroit.
The balance myth
One of Mead's most refreshing leadership insights challenges conventional wisdom about work-life balance. "Balance is junk," she declares, using a playground analogy. "When you were on the teeter-totter when you were a kid, how often did you stop right here perfectly? You don't. You're here or you're there or you're passing through the balance point."
Instead, she advocates for intentional time allocation: "You're going to make the time for the things that are important to you. So you make sure you make enough time for your family. You make enough time to get your work done, and you make enough time to contribute back to your community. And it's not always gonna be equal or even."
Her practical approach includes protecting personal time by completing work at the office: "I like to stay late. I'd rather stay like an extra hour at night. I'm not going to go home and fire my computer back up and do more work."
Lessons from the best
Throughout her career, Mead has absorbed wisdom from exceptional leaders. One mentor, Brenda McCullough, taught her a principle she still shares with others: "Take care of yourself, take care of your family, take care of your team, and the mission will succeed. But if you don't take care of the first things like yourself or your family, the mission will always suffer."
This philosophy influenced her recent month-long medical absence, during which she learned to let go of control. "When you're gone that long, you can't be in everything. You can't touch everything," she reflects. "You have to be okay with your team's going to do the job, but maybe not the way you would do it, but it's still good."
Looking forward, giving back
As Mead prepares for her next chapter—10 months at the Army War College earning a master's in strategic studies, followed by an unknown assignment—she embraces the uncertainty. "I could have never told you at that point, getting married and running off to Colorado was going to end me serving families through the Red Cross for that time. And look how wonderful that turned out."
Her legacy at Detroit Arsenal extends beyond operational excellence to cultural transformation. As the "grandma mentor" of her command's mentorship program, she's helped create connections across the global organization. "One of the best things about that is it's one of the most cross-cutting ways to meet people from my organization that's all over the world," she explains.
Full circle
Mead calls it "life's great irony" that after traveling the world—from Germany to Georgia, Texas to Colorado—she ended up back in Detroit doing "this great job working for the Army where I started, where I never would have thought that this is where I would have ended up."
Her journey from Red Cross caseworker to garrison manager illustrates a profound truth: you don't have to join the military to make a significant impact in national defense. Through her dedication to taking care of people, building communities, and leading through crisis, Carrie Mead has exemplified the very best of civilian leadership in support of our nation's defense.
As she prepares to close this chapter of her remarkable career, the aerospace and defense community in Macomb County and beyond owes her a debt of gratitude for her service, her leadership, and her unwavering commitment to putting others first.
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About Detroit Arsenal: Detroit Arsenal serves as headquarters for the U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM) and is Michigan's only active-duty military installation. The 181-acre facility supports ground vehicle development, acquisition, and sustainment operations critical to national defense.
Editor's Note: This article is based on a recent interview with Carrie Mead as part of the newsletter's enhanced podcast-style content format. Mead will transition to the Army War College this summer for strategic studies before her next assignment.
Aaron Johnson: A full-circle journey to aerospace leadership
Aaron Johnson’s path to becoming President of the Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (AIAM) is a story of strategic evolution and a passion for industry growth. His career began at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), where he spent seven years guiding businesses through the complexities of defense and Homeland Security contracting. During the early 2000s automotive downturn, Johnson helped Michigan manufacturers navigate diversification, encouraging them to expand into defense—a move that would prove essential for long-term sustainability.
As his expertise expanded from regional economic development to a statewide impact, Johnson found himself increasingly engaged in aerospace—first in defense, then gradually into commercial aviation. The trajectory took an unexpected turn when an opportunity arose in his family’s healthcare construction business. Though unrelated to aerospace, the experience of running a small business proved invaluable, sharpening his ability to wear multiple hats, manage operations, and build sustainable growth.
After nearly eight years in construction, Johnson felt a familiar pull—his passion for aerospace remained strong. A conversation with AIAM founder Tony Vernaci reignited his enthusiasm, leading him back into the industry he loved. In October, Johnson joined AIAM as Executive Director for Member Relations, where he built relationships across Michigan’s aerospace sector. As of May 1st, he now leads AIAM as President, bringing his diverse expertise to foster growth and collaboration among the state’s aerospace suppliers.
From defense strategy to business leadership, Johnson’s journey has come full circle—now, he’s shaping the future of aerospace in Michigan.
Michigan’s aerospace industry: A new era with KC-46 and F-15EX Aircraft
Michigan’s aerospace industry is entering a transformative phase with the addition of the KC-46 Pegasus aerial refueling tankers and the F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. These aircraft not only strengthen national defense but also bolster Michigan’s aerospace sector, which consists of over 1,000 companies, 30,000 jobs, and generates more than $7 billion in direct revenue.
Aaron Johnson, President of the Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (AIAM), recognizes the significance of these developments. AIAM, which represents nearly 150 member organizations across the state, plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration among manufacturers, engineering firms, and service providers. The arrival of the KC-46 and F-15EX aircraft enhances Michigan’s reputation as a key player in aerospace and defense, shifting perceptions beyond its traditional automotive identity.
The KC-46 tankers, replacing aging KC-135s, are expected to begin arriving at Selfridge in 2029, providing advanced refueling capabilities to ensure operational readiness for various military aircraft. The F-15EX jets, set to replace the retiring A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft, are scheduled to arrive in fiscal 2028, bringing cutting-edge technology to Selfridge and securing Michigan’s role in national security and defense innovation. These additions create long-term opportunities for local suppliers, reinforcing Michigan’s aerospace ecosystem.
Johnson and AIAM continue to advocate for industry growth through networking events, technology expos, and the annual Aero One conference. As Michigan’s aerospace sector expands, AIAM remains committed to supporting businesses and strengthening the state’s position in global aerospace and defense.
Women in Defense: Strengthening Michigan’s defense industry amid new military investments
“If Michigan is strong, if Macomb is strong, we are all strong." - Karen Kiewski
Michigan’s defense industry is experiencing a pivotal moment with recent announcements regarding U.S. Army ground vehicle platforms and new aircraft at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. These developments reinforce the state’s role in national security and create opportunities for businesses and professionals across the sector.
Karen Kiewski, President of the Michigan Chapter of Women in Defense (WID), understands the impact of these changes on industry professionals. WID, the largest and most active chapter in the country, serves as a professional development organization dedicated to supporting individuals navigating the evolving defense landscape. “We create a safe space where members can come together, talk through challenges, and support one another,” Kiewski explains.
Michigan’s defense sector is strong. And the arrival of new aircraft at Selfridge in fiscal 2028 and 2029, and ongoing advancements in ground vehicle technology at the Detroit Arsenal will further strengthen the industry.
The Army is making significant adjustments to its ground vehicle programs. Some legacy platforms are being phased out to prioritize modernization efforts. The Army is enhancing autonomous systems, vehicle electrification, and survivability technologies to improve mobility and protection for future combat vehicles. These advancements will drive innovation and create new opportunities for Michigan’s defense manufacturers.
Kiewski also stresses the importance of diversity in Michigan’s defense sector, advocating for businesses to embrace a broad approach to industry involvement. “It is smart to be in the defense industry, but you don’t need to be 100% in defense,” she notes. Many Michigan companies successfully balance defense with commercial manufacturing, leveraging their expertise across multiple sectors. With strong engineering, technical, and skilled trades in the region, Michigan is uniquely positioned to lead in both defense and aerospace.
WID plays a crucial role in ensuring professionals remain connected and prepared for industry shifts. Through networking events, leadership development programs, and partnerships with institutions like Macomb Community College, WID fosters collaboration and career growth. “If Michigan is strong, if Macomb is strong, we are all strong,” Kiewski emphasizes.
As Michigan continues to expand its defense footprint, WID remains committed to advocating for the state’s capabilities, ensuring its members thrive, and championing diversity as a key to industry success.
NDIA President Valde Garcia on the Army’s Transformation Initiative
The U.S. Army’s transformation initiative is reshaping key defense programs, creating uncertainty among suppliers and industry stakeholders. National Defense Industry Association (NDIA) President Valde Garcia recently addressed these concerns, highlighting potential program cuts and their economic impact, particularly in Michigan.
Garcia noted apprehension within the defense sector as the Army plans to discontinue production of the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), the Humvee and M10 Booker - while increasing reliance on the Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV). Additionally, other ground combat systems face pauses or reductions. Amid these changes, speculation is growing about the possible consolidation of the Army’s two Program Executive Offices in Southeast Michigan, though details remain unclear.
While the Army’s senior leadership is pushing these adjustments forward, Garcia emphasized the final decisions rest with Congress. Lawmakers will need to approve proposed program cuts, and suppliers are bracing for the potential impact. Many Michigan-based companies provide components for the JLTV and Humvee, and eliminating these programs could force suppliers to pivot, relocate, or lay off workers. Some may transition to the automotive sector, while others risk shutting down entirely.
Despite the challenges, Garcia pointed out emerging opportunities in other areas of the Defense Department, including space technologies, missile systems, and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). He stressed the importance of a transition period, recalling the economic downturn between 2006 and 2008 when the auto industry lost 25% of its market share, leading to widespread factory closures and supplier bankruptcies. With Michigan’s defense industry contributing an estimated $30 billion to the state's economy, Garcia underscored the need to avoid a similar scenario.
As NDIA navigates these shifts, its mission remains focused on fostering collaboration between the defense industry, government, and academia. Although historically centered on ground vehicles, the organization has expanded its reach, providing forums for businesses to showcase technology. Through platforms like the Michigan Defense Exposition (MDEX) and the Ground-Vehicle Systems Engineering & Technology Symposium (GVSETS), NDIA connects companies with military officials and OEMs. Garcia also highlighted NDIA’s cybersecurity efforts, including a recent cyber summit aimed at addressing emerging threats.
Ultimately, Garcia reaffirmed NDIA’s commitment to supporting suppliers and ensuring a smooth transition amid the Army’s transformation. Industry leaders remain hopeful that a strategic approach will mitigate disruptions and protect Michigan’s defense ecosystem.
Michigan Air & Space Forces Association: Building professional networks while advancing aerospace power
The Michigan Air & Space Forces Association continues its mission of connecting Airmen, Guardians, and aerospace professionals throughout the state while advocating for dominant U.S. Air and Space Forces. Under the leadership of President Doug "Odie" Slocum, Brigadier General (Ret.), the organization maintains active engagement through monthly professional development gatherings that strengthen networks across Michigan's aerospace and defense community.
The association's next monthly meeting is scheduled for July 11th at Mission BBQ in Sterling Heights, featuring Colonel Leah Voelker from Selfridge Air National Guard Base as the guest speaker. The breakfast session, beginning at 7:30 AM, provides an opportunity for aerospace professionals to connect with military leadership and gain insights into current operations at one of Michigan's most strategically important installations. (Registration available here)
Looking ahead to national engagement, the association is preparing for AFA's premier annual event—the Air, Space & Cyber Conference scheduled for September 22-24, 2025, in National Harbor, Maryland. This conference brings together aerospace leaders, industry professionals, and military personnel to address the most pressing challenges facing air and space power. Michigan's strong representation at this national forum underscores the state's significant role in aerospace innovation and defense capabilities, reinforcing the connections between local professional development and national aerospace leadership.
Upcoming events of the quarter
Here is the list of upcoming Aerospace and Defense related events in and around Michigan and around the country ...
If you have an event coming up in 2025, please contact us and we can include it in an upcoming newsletter.
Connect with us
Macomb County Planning and Economic Development
Macomb County's economic development team serves as representatives for the aerospace and defense industries in our community. We therefore invite you to contact us to learn more about what we're doing to support our A&D business and how we are connecting them to programs that help them grow. You can also follow us on Facebook or LinkedIn.
Macomb County Chamber
You can also get in touch with Kelley Lovati and her team at the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce, or follow them on Facebook for more news and information.
