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Defense
Industry Spotlight

 

Thursday, July 25, 2024
4-6:30 pm

Innovate Newport

Rhode Island and Southeastern New England serve as the hub of undersea technology, boasting some of the most innovative undersea technologies globally. In addition to established companies, our region hosts numerous innovative startups with applications potentially relevant to defense.

 

Whether you're directly involved in the defense industry, have clients within it, invest in defense-related ventures, are an investor, a student potentially entering the workforce, or simply interested in the defense industry, this event is tailored for you.

 

Highlights:

  • In-depth analysis of the current defense industry environment, with a focus on investment and growth opportunities.

  • Networking sessions with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and potential investment prospects.

  • Showcase of innovative products and services in the defense sector.

  • Access to resources and insights from local and state authorities and the investment community.

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This event is an essential meeting point for anyone looking to invest in, acquire, or collaborate with emerging talents in the food and beverage industry. Secure your participation for an efficient and valuable exploration of this dynamic sector. 

Host

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As the CEO of SENEDIA and the Undersea Technology Innovation Consortium, leading in defense tech, talent, and innovation. With over 25 years of experience, she has held senior roles in nonprofit, for-profit, and government sectors, including CFO and Director of Corporate Operations. She also serves on the Rhode Island Governor's Workforce Board and the Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council.

Moderator

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Colin Jackson is the Chairman of the Strategic and Operational Research Department (SORD) at the U.S. Naval War College and co-chair of the Afghanistan War Commission. He oversees a department of 45 academics, military officers, and researchers focused on strategic and operational research supporting the U.S. Navy and Department of Defense. He has also worked closely with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Panelists

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He is the Chief Technology Officer at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center, where he has served for over 39 years. He is an internationally recognized expert in underwater sensors, SONAR systems, and autonomous systems. With extensive experience in program and project management, Victor is a leader in innovation and transformation, holding over 35 years in offboard and autonomous systems.

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Eliza Van Reen, Ph.D. from Brown University, specializes in sleep and circadian rhythms. She trained at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. With over 17 years of experience, she has numerous peer-reviewed publications and has presented her research internationally and is distinguished member of the Sleep Research Society.

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A lifelong sailor who led hull development at Pure Watercraft, an electric boating startup that has raised $170M+ in funding. He later consulted on R&D for hydrofoiling electric boats. Just prior to Vatn, he was an investor at Link Ventures and previously held investor roles with Lux Capital and Global Founders Capital. Nelson holds a BA and MBA from Columbia University.

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Jim Owens is a technologist and entrepreneur focused on building textile-integrated systems for monitoring high-value assets and their environments. As the founder and Principal of Nautilus Defense, he leads advancements in state-of-the-art textile systems. Jim's expertise spans the development and deployment of high-value sensor system. He is also an educator, STEM advocate, and supporter of impact-focused technology entrepreneurship.

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Thomas Hendrix is a General Partner at Decisive Point, an investment firm focusing on defense, energy, and infrastructure technologies. With an MBA from Columbia Business School and a Master's in Government Procurement from George Washington University, he leverages expertise in federal acquisitions and government R&D funding. Thomas also holds positions on the boards of Vatn Systems, Firestorm, and Scout Space. A decorated Army Ranger and Green Beret, he has top-secret security clearance and significant military training.

Exhibitors

Check Out These Emerging Brands

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Event Sponsors

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Event Sponsor

SENEDIA (Southeastern New England Defense Industry Alliance) is a premier alliance dedicated to supporting the defense sector through advocacy, innovation, and collaboration. Focusing on the advancement of undersea technology, cybersecurity, and other defense-related fields, SENEDIA serves as a hub for industry, academia, and government partnerships. The organization facilitates networking, professional development, and business growth opportunities, striving to strengthen the regional defense ecosystem. Through events, educational initiatives, and strategic partnerships, SENEDIA is committed to ensuring the continued success and innovation of the defense industry in New England.

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Event Sponsor

Undersea Technology Innovation Consortium (UTIC) is at the forefront of advancing undersea technology capabilities through collaboration among industry, academia, and government entities. UTIC focuses on accelerating the development and deployment of innovative solutions in underwater robotics, maritime security, and environmental monitoring. By fostering partnerships and facilitating technology transfer, UTIC aims to strengthen national defense capabilities and promote sustainable marine resource management. Through research initiatives, member networking, and advocacy efforts, UTIC drives forward the frontier of undersea technology innovation, supporting both commercial and defense sectors worldwide.

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