Connecting Talent, Industry, and Innovation in National Security

CMURC, CMU, National Defense Industrial Association, and Women in Defense host campus event 

AM General, American Rheinmetall, BAE Systems, DDC-I Inc., General Dynamics Land Systems, MettleOps, Oshkosh Defense, and Sapa Transmission, along with the Michigan National Guard came to Central Michigan University (CMU) campus on January 28. The event focused on offering insight into career and workforce opportunities within the Michigan defense industry.   

“This event was about bringing visibility and awareness to the opportunities that exist around the Michigan defense industry,” said Director, National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Michigan Chapter Nancy Loerch and CMU Alumna. “We were excited to provide this opportunity to engage directly with students and faculty.”   

Multiple companies were represented by CMU alumni, underscoring the strong pipeline between Michigan’s academic institutions and the Michigan defense industry. More than 60 students and 50 faculty members took part, alongside Innovation Ambassadors and academic leaders, reinforcing the collaborative nature of the event. 

“Bringing together industry and academic institutions with the future workforce is critical,” said Mark Ignash, a Director of the Michigan Chapter of the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA). “Events like this continue to open doors, create meaningful connections, and expand opportunities across Michigan’s defense and aerospace ecosystem.” 

Highlighting Michigan’s ongoing efforts in defense, initiatives across the state are creating opportunities for students, faculty and organizations to engage with the national security sector. The event at CMU offered a practical example of this work in action through direct engagement with leading organizations.  

“Partnering with the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) and Women in Defense (WID) made this event possible and helps strengthen Michigan’s role in this industry,” said CMURC President + CEO Erin Strang.  "Advancing industry, academic, and government partnership activities like this assist in supporting the Central Ecosystem for National Security.”  

Anchored in these partnerships, CENS drives applied research, commercialization, and talent development aligned with national security priorities. Membership in CENS provides a pathway to engage in these efforts and participate in initiatives that advance workforce readiness and innovation. Learn more at cmurc.com/cens.