Message from Vicky Rowinski
Each October, the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting and Exposition brings together the brightest minds and most advanced technologies in land power from across the globe. This year’s event, held October 13–15 in Washington, D.C., was no exception—and Macomb County was proud to once again lead Michigan’s presence on the national stage.
Our delegation didn’t attend just to retain business—we came to celebrate growth, showcase our capabilities, and extend a hand to companies looking to expand into a region that’s already driving the future of defense. Throughout the conference, we met with companies from around the world and across the country, showing them how Macomb County makes business expansion strategic, efficient, and successful.
Macomb County: A national leader in aerospace and defense
Macomb County’s reputation as the “Arsenal of Democracy” is more than historical—it’s a living legacy that continues to shape our economy, our workforce, and our national impact. We are home to the U.S. Army Tank-Automotive Armaments Command (TACOM), Selfridge Air National Guard Base, and more than 150 aerospace suppliers. Our proximity to Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center and the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center reinforces our strategic importance to military readiness and innovation.
In 2024 alone, Macomb County secured 4,808 defense contracts totaling $3.21 billion—representing 65% of all federal defense contract dollars awarded in Michigan, including $25 billion awarded to 413 local businesses between 2010 and 2020. Our gross regional product reached $6.7 billion, and our employment concentration in military armored vehicle, tank, and tank component manufacturing stands at 6.72—one of the highest in the nation.
These numbers aren’t just impressive—they’re a testament to the strength, resilience, and innovation of our local companies and workforce. We don’t just support the defense industry—we lead it.
AUSA 2025: A platform for partnership and growth
At Booth #4145 in Hall ABC, the Michigan Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation had a significant presence and represented many small businesses in our state, including Macomb County. Their presence underscored our commitment to emerging technologies in maritime, cybersecurity, and space—sectors that are rapidly expanding and diversifying the defense landscape.
We also promoted our International Landing Zone (ILZ) at Velocity in Sterling Heights—a soft-landing space for international companies seeking to establish a U.S. presence. The ILZ offers tailored support, networking opportunities, and seamless integration into Michigan’s defense supply chain. Throughout the conference, we met with companies from around the world and across the country, showing them how Macomb County makes business expansion strategic, efficient, and successful.
Regional collaboration: Building the Arsenal of Tomorrow
One of the highlights of our AUSA presence was co-hosting the “Arsenal of Innovation” Reception at the Army and Navy Club, alongside the Michigan Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation, Macomb Chamber of Commerce, Macomb Community College and long-time partner, Butzel. This invitation-only event brought together defense leaders and innovators to celebrate Michigan’s contributions to national security.
This year’s AUSA wasn’t just about Macomb—it was about Michigan. Our reception showcased the growing collaboration between Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties. Together, we are branding Southeast Michigan as a unified defense technology hub. This regional approach strengthens our visibility on the national stage and supports joint efforts in workforce development, innovation, and supply chain integration.
Momentum, communication, and community
Back home, Aerospace and Defense (A&D) Committee, brought to you by the Macomb Chamber, continues to meet monthly, bringing together more than 40 stakeholders to share updates, align strategies, and build momentum. These meetings are a cornerstone of our communication strategy, ensuring that the lines remain open between government, industry, and academia.
Organizations like NDIA, AUSA, WID, AFA, and AIAM continue to fuel our community with events, forecasts, and professional development opportunities. Their work helps us stay ahead of the curve and connected to the broader defense ecosystem. Activity begets activity. And Macomb County is proud to be leading the charge.
Why Macomb?
Macomb County is your launchpad to a skilled workforce, affordable real estate, and unmatched access to defense infrastructure. We offer two international border crossings, proximity to the Great Lakes, and one of the largest pools of engineers in the country. We’re not just building the arsenal for today—we’re building the arsenal for tomorrow. And we invite you to be part of it.
F-15 infrastructure opportunities: County preparing supplier access strategy
Want to capture F-15 infrastructure contracts? County is preparing supplier days and certification pathways. Find out what your business needs to do now.
Industry days in development to connect local businesses with Selfridge construction contracts
As Selfridge Air National Guard Base prepares for major infrastructure upgrades to accommodate incoming F-15 fighters and KC-46 refueling aircraft, Macomb County Planning and Economic Development is ensuring local businesses have direct pathways to participate in the multi-million dollar construction opportunity.
Industry and supplier days are currently in development, coordinated with Apex Accelerators and Macomb County Chamber partners. These events will give architecture, engineering, design and construction companies access to bid information and help them navigate the pre-approval process required for Department of Defense contracts.
"This isn't just about informing businesses that opportunities exist," Vicky Rowinski, Director of Macomb County Planning and Economic Development, explained. "It's about making sure they're positioned and qualified when those contracts come available."
The timeline is urgent. Infrastructure improvements—including runway extensions, hangar upgrades and facilities for over 300 relocating military households—must be completed by 2027-2028 when the aircraft arrive.
Boeing visit reveals supply chain expansion potential
Rowinski's team recently traveled to Boeing's St. Louis facility where the F-15s are manufactured. The visit uncovered a significant finding: over $1 billion of the aircraft's production already happens within Macomb County's existing supply chain.
"We were there seeing where these planes will be coming from, and realizing how much of the work is already being done here," Rowinski said. "The conversation now is about growing that footprint."
While the likelihood of Boeing relocating its assembly operations from St. Louis remains slim, the company expressed openness to establishing a program office or expanding its Michigan presence. For local manufacturers, the opportunity lies in capturing more of the supply chain work through direct relationships and certifications.
Helping manufacturers diversify into defense
For companies looking to pivot from automotive into aerospace or other defense sectors, the county's economic development team is actively connecting businesses with resources and peer learning opportunities.
Small to medium-sized manufacturers—typically 20 to 50 employees—represent the ideal candidates for this work because of their ability to pivot production quickly. However, each defense sector requires different certifications and speaks a different technical language.
Moving from ground vehicle manufacturing to aerospace, for example, requires AS9100 certification. Other defense applications demand different credentials entirely. The county's role is reducing the friction in that transition process.
"We link businesses to companies who've already made those transitions and to organizations that provide certification expertise," Rowinski explained. "If we can't solve their problem in-house, we find the right partners to bring to the table."
This diversification strategy takes on added importance as the region's defense GDP—currently at $6 billion—continues growing while companies seek to reduce dependency on any single industry sector.
Regional coalition amplifies business attraction efforts
A newly formed regional partnership is changing how Macomb County markets itself to national defense contractors. The Detroit Regional Defense Coalition—which will be featured extensively in the December newsletter—brings together Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties with the City of Detroit under unified leadership.
"When I travel on business attraction missions and say I'm from Macomb County, it goes over their head," Rowinski acknowledged. "But when I say the Detroit region, they immediately understand where we are on the map."
The coalition amplifies the region's already substantial numbers: $4.75 billion in annual Department of Defense spending and $3.2 billion in procurement contracts. By presenting as a unified region rather than competing counties, the partnership creates a more compelling value proposition for companies considering Michigan.
Immediate action items for local businesses
Companies interested in participating in Selfridge infrastructure opportunities should:
- Connect with Apex Accelerators to understand pre-qualification requirements for DoD contracting
- Monitor announcements about upcoming industry and supplier days through the chamber
- Review cybersecurity requirements (CMMC certification) that apply to all defense contracts
- Consider diversification strategies if currently dependent on a single industry sector
For manufacturers exploring aerospace or other defense sector transitions, the county's economic development team can facilitate introductions to peer companies and certification resources.
"We become an extension of businesses," Rowinski said. "We become their connector as they're trying to navigate the waters."
With construction timelines compressed and multiple initiatives converging—F-15 infrastructure, supply chain expansion, regional coalition work—the window for positioning businesses to capture these opportunities is now.
Ready to explore defense contracting opportunities and connect with state resources? Macomb County Planning and Economic Development can help you navigate the path forward.
This article features insights from Vicky Rowinski's interview on the "Hardcore and At Ease" podcast with host Shelly Rood. Listen to the full conversation to hear how Vicky's recent visit to Savannah, Georgia's waterfront district inspired her vision for Macomb County's own riverfront potential, and why she believes work doesn't feel like work when you're making a difference every day.
Small business success story
Gears of progress: SAPA Transmission $143M expansion brings jobs and military innovation to Macomb County
SAPA Transmission’s footprint in Macomb County, Michigan is growing fast—and with it, the region’s role in shaping the future of U.S. military mobility. Since completing its initial U.S. headquarters and production facility in Shelby Township in early 2020, SAPA has rapidly evolved from a modest operation into a cornerstone of advanced defense manufacturing.
When retired Army Maj. Gen. Darren Werner joined SAPA as President of its U.S. division in March 2024, the company had just 13 employees and a single building. “I started developing the strategy to grow the company so we could assemble and test transmissions here in the U.S.,” Werner said. That strategy has paid off. SAPA has nearly 60 employees and is actively assembling transmissions for the Army’s XM-30 program and General Dynamics’ Next Generation Tank.
SAPA Transmission, the U.S. arm of Spain’s legacy manufacturer SAPA Group, incorporated in the United States in 2003. SAPA began collaborating with the Army’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center (formerly TARDEC) to address critical capability gaps identified by the Army—specifically in combat engines and transmissions. “By 2030, the Army wanted advanced powertrain solutions for its platforms,” said retired Army Maj. Gen. Darren Werner, President of SAPA Transmission USA. “We stepped in to help close that gap.”
The company’s expansion is far from over. By the end of next year, SAPA will have invested at least $143 million in capital expenditures—covering machines, property, and infrastructure. These self-funded investments will support the opening of the second facility, with plans for a third advanced manufacturing resource, and a workforce expansion to 400 employees. “We’re not hiring low-paying positions,” Werner emphasized. “We’re hiring technicians, engineers, and CNC experts. This is a 2030 manufacturing operation.”
SAPA’s facilities are designed for advanced manufacturing, integrating lessons learned from its operations in Spain while tailoring solutions for U.S. needs. The Shelby Township $10 million expansion now includes a state-of-the-art test center with four specialized test cells, set to be completed by the end of October. These simulate conditions from Army proving grounds like Aberdeen and Yuma, allowing SAPA to evaluate transmissions and full power packs under battlefield-like stress.
The test cells serve multiple functions: validating transmission assembly, integrating engines, and supporting accelerated Army delivery schedules. SAPA is actively collaborating with industry giants including Caterpillar, Rolls-Royce, and Cummins to ensure seamless integration between their engines and SAPA’s transmissions. “We’re already selling time on those cells to our customers,” Werner noted, underscoring SAPA’s role in helping defense contractors meet urgent program timelines.
With its deepening roots in Michigan and a clear vision for future growth, SAPA Transmission is not just building gearboxes—it’s building momentum. And for Macomb County, that means more jobs, more innovation, and a front-row seat in the next generation of military mobility.
Partner stories
Selfridge Air National Guard Base: A transformative year for Michigan’s defense future
Written by Macomb County Chamber Chief Executive Officer Kelley Lovati
It’s an exciting and historic time for Selfridge Air National Guard Base. After years of collaboration and advocacy, Selfridge is preparing for one of the most significant transformations in its 108-year history.
Leadership at the Helm
Brig. Gen. Leah Voelker recently assumed command of the base and brings an impressive blend of leadership and community engagement. She oversees more than 1,500 Airmen who serve around the globe, manages day-to-day base operations, and remains deeply involved in strengthening relationships throughout the region. Her leadership ensures that Selfridge continues to thrive both as a military installation and as a vital part of the Macomb County community.
Securing the Fighter Mission
This year marked a major milestone for Michigan. Following years of persistent advocacy by local, state, and federal leaders, the decision to assign the F-15EX fighter aircraft to Selfridge was elevated directly from the Oval Office. When Governor Gretchen Whitmer visited the White House earlier this year, she made it a top priority to secure a next-generation fighter mission for Michigan…and it worked.
The F-15EX, known as the “missile truck” for its powerful payload, will bring cutting-edge capabilities to Selfridge. Strategically located between neighboring bases flying F-35s and F-16s, Selfridge will now serve as a critical hub in defending the eastern United States and Arctic approaches.
Investing in Infrastructure
Transforming the base requires major upgrades — and Michigan is stepping up. The state budget includes $26 million for Selfridge infrastructure improvements, bringing total state investment to more than $60 million. These funds will support roadway realignments, drainage improvements, and preparation for new aircraft facilities. The Macomb County Department of Roads and Public Works will lead several of these projects, ensuring local expertise drives the effort.
At the federal level, the U.S. Air Force and Army Corps of Engineers are coordinating nearly $1 billion in design and construction to prepare Selfridge for both the F-15EX fighters and KC-46 refueling tankers. Work will begin in phases starting in 2026, with multiple general contractors on site.
Economic Impact and Opportunity
The long-term impact of this investment will be felt across Michigan’s economy. The upgrades will create thousands of skilled jobs and open the door for local contractors, engineers, and suppliers to contribute directly to Selfridge’s future.
To support this effort, a Defense Industry Day is being planned for early 2026 in partnership with the Macomb County Planning & Economic Development and the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce, helping Michigan businesses prepare for upcoming federal contracting opportunities.
Innovation and Energy Resilience
As Selfridge prepares for its next chapter, leaders are also looking ahead to innovation. Discussions around artificial intelligence, data analytics, and energy resiliency are shaping how the base can modernize for the next generation of defense technology. From exploring renewable energy to considering long-term infrastructure sustainability, Selfridge is positioning itself as a forward-looking base ready for the future.
A United Effort
The continued success of Selfridge reflects what’s possible when business, government, and community leaders work together. As General Voelker and her team lead the base into this new era, their collaboration with local partners ensures that Selfridge remains a cornerstone of Michigan’s defense network — and a point of pride for Macomb County.
The Macomb County Chamber of Commerce extends a special thank-you to General Rogers for joining us and sharing valuable updates and insights on Selfridge’s progress. His leadership and commitment to collaboration continue to strengthen the connection between the base and the community it serves.
In Macomb County, a six-person team is quietly fueling major wins for Michigan’s aerospace and defense sector. The Macomb Regional APEX Accelerator, hosted by Macomb Community College, helps businesses navigate the complex world of government contracting—and the results speak volumes.
In fiscal 2024 alone, companies supported by the program secured over $531 million in contract awards, generating nearly 6,000 jobs and delivering a return on investment of $781 to $1. Nationally, APEX Accelerators helped businesses land nearly $100 billion in contracts in 2023, with an ROI of $1,814 for every federal dollar invested.
Originally launched in 1985 as the Procurement Technical Assistance Program, the initiative was rebranded in 2023 under the Department of Defense Office of Small Business Programs. Macomb’s center is one of eight Programs in Michigan funded through a cooperative agreement from the DoD OSBP with a match from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Office of Defense Aerospace and Innovation.
“Our mission is to expand the Defense and Government Industrial Base,” said Director Kathy Stockman. “We help businesses—new and experienced—develop the skills to compete in the federal, state, and local government marketplace.”
The Macomb APEX Accelerator offers no-cost services including one-on-one counseling and a robust training curriculum. Core classes cover everything from Federal Contracting 101 to How to Market Your Business to the Federal Government 401. They also assist businesses with market research, procurement histories, and federal cybersecurity requirements. Other key services include:
- Expert-led workshops on government contracting topics
- BidMatch Service searching3,000 procurement websites to align client capabilities with relevant opportunities. Clients receive daily bid emails tailored to their profiles. Strategic connections to SBA, SBDC, MEDC, and Macomb County economic development teams
“We’re small but mighty,” Stockman emphasized. “When a business calls with a SAM (System for Award Management) registration issue and a bid deadline looming, we act fast. We know how critical that moment is.”
The team also hosts events like Business-to-Government Connect, helping companies link with agencies and prime contractors. Whether pursuing direct contracts or subcontracting opportunities, the APEX Accelerator arms businesses to succeed.
The program’s economic impact is clear, and its strategic value runs deeper. By equipping businesses with essential knowledge and support, Macomb’s APEX Accelerator team contributes to national security and empowers companies to compete, innovate, and lead in the government marketplace. For Macomb County’s aerospace and defense firms, this small team is more than a resource—it’s a launchpad. Learn more about events and services at Macomb’s APEX Accelerator.
Macomb Community College aids Michigan in submarine manufacturing
Michigan’s push to become a national leader in submarine manufacturing is gaining momentum—and Macomb County is at the forefront. With the launch of the Michigan Maritime Manufacturing (M³) Initiative’s Accelerated Training Industry Partnership in 2024, Macomb Community College students endure a rigorous 17-week program, training in either maritime CNC machining or welding.
The program marks a $15.4 million Navy investment in Macomb, aimed at preparing nearly 400 students for high-demand careers in the submarine industrial base through early 2027. The initiative is part of a broader $50 million effort to address the urgent need for skilled labor in support of the Navy’s strategic goals and national security.
A portion of Macomb’s Michigan Technical Education Center (M-TEC) in Warren was transformed into a state-of-the-art maritime skilled trades training center. The facility houses 24 new CNC machines—split evenly between lathe and mill—alongside 24 welding booths equipped with 36 welders. The full-time, 600-hour programs run Monday through Friday, offering both morning and afternoon sessions. Graduates will be eligible for certifications from the American Welding Society (AWS) and the National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS), positioning them for one of nearly 13,000 local job openings.
Rear Adm. Peter Small, deputy commander for Ship Design, Engineering and Logistics for Naval Sea Systems Command, echoed the significance of the partnership at the kick-off event last year introducing local defense industry partners to the new training center. “This partnership exemplifies our commitment to rebuilding America's maritime manufacturing workforce,” he said. “By leveraging Michigan's manufacturing expertise and Macomb's proven training capabilities, we're creating a direct pipeline of talent tailored for the demands of our Navy and nation.”
As Michigan continues to build its reputation as a defense manufacturing powerhouse, Macomb County is proving that the future of submarine construction starts with skilled hands, cutting-edge facilities, and a community committed to national service. Click here for more information on the Macomb Community College program.
Shifting sands, steady ground: NAMC adapting to defense landscape changes
As the Department of Defense reshapes its modernization priorities, the National Advanced Mobility Consortium (NAMC) is keeping pace—expanding its reach, deepening its impact, and ensuring its 550-member base remains on the leading edge. Chief Operating Officer Warren Sponsler, a retired Army Colonel, recently shared insights on these shifts and the opportunities they present.
Before joining NAMC in 2022, Sponsler served as Chief of Staff for the Army’s Next Generation Combat Vehicle Cross Functional Team. His firsthand experience in defense modernization informs his current work with the consortium. “There’s definitely been concern as the DOD budget shifts focus, particularly away from traditional ground vehicle systems,” he said. “That raised a lot of concern—especially in places like Southeast Michigan, where ground systems have long been the backbone of the defense economy.”
Still, key investments remain. Programs like the M1E3 tank modernization and XM30 infantry vehicle continue to move forward with strong Army backing. “These efforts aren’t just about primes,” he noted. “They involve an entire ecosystem of small businesses and tech developers—many of them right here in Michigan.”
NAMC, often associated with the Army through its Other Transaction Agreement (OTA), is in fact far more expansive. “We support all branches—Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force—through active programs and partnerships,” Sponsler emphasized. “Any DOD agency with OTA authority can leverage our consortium to access innovation.”
One emerging example lies with the Air Force’s need to modernize ground support systems. “They’re looking to integrate autonomy into their processes,” he said. “We’re positioned to connect them with companies already developing those technologies for ground combat systems.”
Events are a cornerstone of NAMC’s member support. From technical training to industry project briefings, the consortium cultivates ongoing engagement. Its August Member Meeting—held alongside GVSETS—is a key venue for sharing strategic updates. “We’ll be covering everything from budget implications to modernization outlooks,” Sponsler said.
NAMC also hosts Donuts & Defense, a quarterly networking series that brings together consortium members and non-traditional defense stakeholders. “It’s designed to spark ideas and forge connections,” he explained. “Whether you do HR, manufacturing, or consulting—if you want to support defense, there’s a way to get involved.”
With nearly a quarter of its membership based in Southeast Michigan and programs spanning every branch of service, NAMC continues to serve as a critical hub for innovation, agility, and resilience in the defense space.
Featured articles
State Partnership: ODAI reinforces Macomb County's defense leadership
Michigan's defense chief names Macomb County critical hub. Discover free state resources that fast-track your path to federal defense contracts.
John Gutierrez, executive director of Michigan's Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation, reinforces regional partnerships driving national security priorities
Macomb County's reputation as the epicenter of defense and aerospace activity in Michigan continues to gain recognition at the state level, with the Michigan Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation (ODAI) identifying the region as a critical hub within the defense industrial base.
John Gutierrez, Executive Director of ODAI within the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, brings a unique perspective to his role—28 years as a Marine Corps officer managing billion-dollar defense programs, including time stationed at Selfridge Air National Guard Base from 2015 to 2018 as a Lieutenant Colonel with the Joint Program Office for Joint Light Tactical Vehicles. His return to Michigan in 2024 wasn't coincidental; it reflected both personal commitment and professional recognition of the state's strategic importance to national defense.
"Michigan is a significant strategic contributor to national defense," Gutierrez emphasizes. "Macomb County is home to the defense corridor, home to TACOM, and all these storied organizations and the companies and men and women that make up those areas."
Catalyzing growth through strategic partnerships
The Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation serves a clear mission: catalyzing growth within Michigan's defense and aerospace sectors through advancement of industrial capacity, innovation, and research. For Macomb County, this translates to enhanced support as a critical hub within the defense industrial base.
ODAI's work focuses on guiding Michigan through shifts in the defense and aerospace sectors while driving innovation, fostering strategic partnerships, and aligning statewide efforts with national priorities. Through proactive engagement with academia, industry, and government, the office strengthens Michigan's competitiveness, accelerates research, and expands workforce investment opportunities.
"We're working to transform shifts within the defense and aerospace landscape into measurable growth by opening new contracting avenues, advancing dual-use technologies, and strengthening regional capacities," Gutierrez explains. "Our vision is to restore Michigan as a national leader within defense and aerospace."
Supporting regional contractors and businesses
ODAI serves as a strategic partner for Macomb County businesses, particularly those seeking to enter or expand within the defense sector. The office improves access to federal contracting pathways and fosters collaboration between regional stakeholders and partners across the state and nation.
For companies interested in defense contracting—whether large primes or second and third-tier suppliers—ODAI provides critical guidance and resources. This includes assistance with cybersecurity maturity model certification, required for all Department of Defense contracts, and Naval Sea Systems Command certifications for companies seeking to supply the United States Navy. The December newsletter will feature an in-depth look at maritime workforce development initiatives at Macomb Community College and their connection to national defense priorities.
"We hold town halls on almost a monthly basis across the state's 11 Apex Accelerators," Gutierrez notes. "We invite resource providers and let companies know these opportunities exist. Many times, these tools and resources come at no cost to Michigan-based companies."
These resources include proposal and grant writing services providing up to $10,000 to assist companies with bid responses to Department of Defense, Department of Energy, or Department of Homeland Security contracting opportunities. ODAI also offers a bid targeting system at no cost to Michigan companies, helping them identify and prioritize federal contracting opportunities.
Addressing industry shifts and diversification
The defense landscape is shifting, with federal priorities pivoting toward maritime, shipbuilding, space, and aerospace sectors. While ground vehicle communities—particularly strong in Macomb County with the Tank and Automotive Command and its tenant organizations—remain important, diversification has become essential.
"We'll never divorce ourselves from the great and strong ground vehicle communities within Michigan, which align well with our auto sector, the state's number one industry," Gutierrez acknowledges. "But conditions are changing and we need to diversify."
ODAI works with companies of all sizes exploring these shifts, helping them identify opportunities to pivot capabilities toward maritime, space, or aerospace applications. This might mean a manufacturer of commercial wiring harnesses exploring defense sector applications, or a ground vehicle supplier investigating maritime opportunities.
Academic partnerships advancing research
Beyond direct business support, ODAI is establishing partnerships with universities across Michigan to advance defense-related research and development. The office is working with seven R2 universities—led by Central Michigan University—to establish a university-affiliated research center (UARC), a federal designation that allows Department of Defense research and development dollars to flow into Michigan universities.
"We stood up a consortium with the R2s because who doesn't want to see Central Michigan University, Saginaw Valley State, Kettering, and others have those opportunities," Gutierrez explains. "This allows federal research dollars to come into these universities to solve some of our most difficult and complex problems."
This creates pathways for students to work on classified research projects, gain exposure to defense companies, and access internship opportunities—all while contributing to critical national security challenges such as hypersonics research.
The Arsenal of Democracy, reimagined
ODAI's strategic planning centers on a powerful theme: reimagining the arsenal of democracy. This concept honors Michigan's pivotal World War II contribution while recognizing contemporary opportunities to apply that same heritage of grit, hard work, and determination.
"When you think about that time when men and women were at Willow Run, building not only the tools and machines of war but building momentum—that momentum helped propel American greatness for decades," Gutierrez reflects. "That momentum hasn't gone away. There's so much we can do within this state to leverage our heritage while recognizing new horizons where we can still apply that same determination."
Engagement opportunities and next steps
For Macomb County businesses and professionals seeking to participate in this ecosystem, Gutierrez offers clear guidance: engage with local economic development organizations, including Macomb County Planning and Economic Development and the newly formed Detroit Regional Defense Coalition, which now comprises Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties, plus the city of Detroit.
ODAI hosts educational webinar series called "Two on the Twos"—offered the second Tuesday of every month at 2:00 p.m.—with themed topics covering what it's like to do business in space, aerospace, maritime, and other defense sectors. These recorded sessions are available to anyone interested in learning more about opportunities within Michigan's defense and aerospace ecosystem.
"This ecosystem is a people business," Gutierrez emphasizes. "It doesn't matter if you're flying a desk, an airplane, or a ship. Plug in, get to know what those constraints are, get to know what success looks like, and I think you'll go far."
This article features insights from John Gutierrez's interview on the "Hardcore and At Ease" podcast with host Shelly Rood and co-host retired Colonel Nancy Dakin. Watch the full conversation to hear more about his journey from Marine Corps officer to Michigan's defense advocate.
The 'A' is for 'advancement': Additional A&D updates
17th annual GVSETS recap
Nation Defense Industry Association Michigan Chapter’s 17th Annual Ground Vehicle Systems Engineering & Technology Symposium (GVSETS) took place in August, attracting nearly 3,000 attendees from 11 countries. Attendees heard exclusive modernization updates from U.S. Army senior officials on game-changing technologies and billion-dollar military programs. The event is the nation’s largest event focused solely on military ground vehicle innovation. GVSETS 2026 is August 11-13. The 2026 Michigan Defense Expo will be co-located with the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International “XPONENTIAL 2026” in Detroit. Details forthcoming at http://ndia-mich.org/.
17th annual Scholarship Golf Outing recap
Women in Defense Michigan Chapter’s 17th Annual Scholarship Golf Outing in July raised more than $25,000 to support scholarships for women in defense. Women In Defense Michigan Chapter has invested more than $150,000 in scholarships to lay the foundation for the next generation of women entering the defense industry. WID Michigan 2026 Scholarship Golf Outing is July 29.
AFA teacher of the year from Michigan
Air & Space Forces Association-Michigan (AFA-MI) teacher of the year was honored as AFA National teacher of the year on September 22. Ashlie Smith is an exemplary 8th-grade physical science teacher at Cranbrook Kingswood Middle School for Girls in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. This prestigious award is sponsored by Rolls-Royce, heavily involved in the defense industry throughout the United States. Click here for Ashlie’s story. AFA-Michigan also received the AFA national membership growth awards for the fifth year in a row. Based in Macomb County AFA-Michigan keeps raising the bar - a truly amazing return on investment of plugging into air, space, and cyber power on multiple levels. Their bimonthly “Business Over Breakfast” events feature guest speakers focusing on aerospace and defense. The next Business Over Breakfast is December 12.
National guard role in army transformation
Army Maj. Gen. Paul Rogers, Michigan Adjutant General, addressed the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) as Chairman, NGAUS Board of Directors on Sept. 3. General Rogers emphasized the National Guard’s role in the Army Transformation Initiative, saying, “Our vigilance is as necessary as the transformation we embrace.” He emphasized that, “…during transformation we are competing for the budget, for the priorities and for the equipping of our men and women to ensure they have the lethality, and they have the accessibility that our nation demands. Our vigilance must not be forgotten.”
Upcoming events of the quarter
Here is the list of upcoming Aerospace and Defense related events in and around Michigan and around the country ...
| 2025 Events | Date |
|---|---|
| Macomb APEX: State Contracting 101 | Oct. 30 |
| AUSA Arsenal of Democracy: Community Partner Recognition Luncheon | Oct. 30 |
| Macomb Chamber Women in Leadership | Oct. 30 |
| Women in Defense Superstar Networking Event | Nov. 5 |
| National Guard Association of Michigan 68th Annual State Conference | Nov. 6 |
| Marine Corps Birthday | Nov. 10 |
| Macomb APEX: Take-Away Tuesday: Joint Certification Program | Nov. 11 |
| Macomb APEX: Market Your Business to the Federal Government 401 | Nov. 13 |
| NAMC: Donuts & Defense Networking | Nov. 16 |
| Selfridge Community Council | Nov. 18 |
| Macomb Chamber 40 Under 40 Awards | Nov. 20 |
| Civil Air Patrol Birthday | Dec. 1 |
| Advancing Macomb: Winter Networking Event | Dec. 4 |
| Macomb APEX: Small Business Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification 2.0 | Dec. 9 |
| Macomb APEX: Introduction to Federal Government Contracting 101 | Dec. 11 |
| AFA Business Over Breakfast | Dec. 12 |
| Women in Defense Michigan Annual Gala | Dec. 12 |
| National Guard Birthday | Dec. 13 |
| Selfridge Community Council | Dec. 16 |
| Northern Michigan Defense Conference 2026 | Mar. 5, 2026 |
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.
