December 2, 2025, Tuesday
9:00 AM – Opening Remarks -- WATCH RECORDING
Explore the Defense Works ecosystem, cybersecurity training for manufacturers, Project Spectrum resources, and keynote insights at the Apex Accelerator Tri-State Mega Matchmaker.

10:00 AM Matchmaking Sessions begin

General Sessions
​10:00 AM – Introduction to the DefenseWERX Ecosystem​ -- WATCH RECORDING

Explore the Defense Works and HS Works ecosystem, highlighting national security innovation, government collaboration opportunities, ways to get involved, and technology commercialization initiatives.

 

 

2:00 PM – Made to Grow: Cybersecurity Training for Manufacturers -- WATCH RECORDING
Learn how adversaries target defense and manufacturing sectors, the role of counter-intelligence, and strategies to prevent insider threats and information breaches.
Mr. Colton Plumb, Special Agent
Naval Criminal Investigation Services (NCIS)

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3:00 PM – Project Spectrum -- WATCH RECORDING
Learn about Project Spectrum, a DoD initiative enhancing cybersecurity for small and medium-sized enterprises in the Defense Industrial Base, covering CMMC compliance, threat awareness, and free resources to strengthen defenses.
Mr. Kareem Sykes , Director
Project Spectrum Industry & Engagement

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December 3, 2025, Wednesday
9:00 AM – Defense Industrial Base Updates -- WATCH RECORDING
Explore the Tri-State Apex Accelerator Mega Matchmaker, featuring Defense Logistics Agency insights, current procurement needs in the defense industrial base, and guidance for suppliers on engaging with long-term contracting opportunities.

Army Col. Sue Styer, Land Supplier Operations Director

DLA Land and Maritime

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General Sessions Begin
10:00 AM – PA Talent Pipeline -- WATCH RECORDING
Discover how the U.S. Navy Talent Pipeline Program helps maritime and defense manufacturers stabilize their workforce through improved recruiting, onboarding, and retention, and build a sustainable talent pipeline for long-term success.
Mr. Vince Jordan, Regional Project Manager, Chief of Workforce Success Initiatives

Maritime Industrial Base

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11:00 AM – SBA Made in America -- WATCH RECORDING
Discover how small businesses can access federal programs, SBA loans, and federal contracts through the Made in America Manufacturing Initiative, including funding opportunities, loan programs, certifications, and support resources.
Mr. David Pinkosky, Business Opportunity Specialist
SBA Pittsburgh District

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2:00 PM – Best Practices – Large Prime Contractor Panel Discussion -- WATCH RECORDING
Learn best practices for small businesses from liaisons and prime contractors, including L3 Harris Technologies, and discover how to engage with federal programs and defense industry opportunities.

L3Harris, Lockheed Martin, Moog

L3HARRIS PRESENTATION

LOCKHEED MARTIN PRESENTATION

MOOG PRESENTATION

3:00 PM – Doing Business with Air Force Research Labs -- WATCH RECORDING
Explore small business opportunities with the Air Force through the Apex Accelerator Mega Matchmaker, including AFRL procurement insights, R&D requirements, and ways to engage and collaborate with federal programs.

Mr. Brian McJilton, Director of Small Business and Deputy Director of Strategic Partnering Directorate

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