For over 15 years, NDIA Michigan Chapter has been at the forefront of organizing MDEX to connect Department of Defense leaders, prime contractors, and small businesses in one of the most strategically significant manufacturing corridors in the United States. With free attendance for all participants, MDEX democratizes access to essential defense procurement channels while fostering collaboration that strengthens our nation’s military capabilities.
“MDEX is not just an event—it is a mission-critical platform for advancing national security and technology,” said President of NDIA Michigan Chapter, Mr. Valde Garcia. “Each year, we bring together government leaders, industry innovators, and small businesses to ensure that Michigan remains at the epicenter of defense innovation and manufacturing excellence.”
Why MDEX Matters: A National Security Imperative
MDEX is uniquely positioned at the heart of Michigan’s Defense Corridor, a region responsible for producing 75% of America’s ground combat systems and home to over 6,000 defense contractors. This corridor generated more than $26 billion in defense contracts over a single decade and hosts critical military assets such as the U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM) and the U.S. Army Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC).
“Michigan’s Defense Corridor is unlike any other place in the country,” said Mr. Garcia, “The NDIA Michigan Chapter’s leadership in organizing MDEX ensures that this ecosystem continues to deliver innovative solutions that protect our warfighters and enhance our national security.”
In today’s evolving defense landscape, MDEX stands out as one of the few premier opportunities for industry leaders to engage directly with Michigan Defense decision-makers and showcase groundbreaking innovations. With limited avenues for direct collaboration, MDEX provides a vital forum for connecting industry expertise with government priorities.
This year’s MDEX will feature:
lExclusive DoD Briefings: Insights into emerging trends and procurement strategies from top military leaders.
lPrime Contractor Engagements: Opportunities to connect with industry giants like General Dynamics Land Systems, BAE Systems, Oshkosh Defense, and AM General.
lSmall Business Matchmaking: Focused sessions designed to integrate small businesses into the defense supply chain.
lInnovative Exhibits: Showcasing technologies across ground vehicles, robotics, aerospace, and more.
Michigan: From Arsenal of Democracy to Battlefield Innovator
Michigan’s historic role as the “Arsenal of Democracy” during World War II has evolved into a modern-day hub for digital-age defense innovation. The state leads in developing next-generation ground combat systems, autonomous vehicles, robotics technologies, and advanced manufacturing technologies that define tomorrow’s battlefield.
Recent federal investments further cement Michigan’s leadership in defense innovation:
lA $37 million manned/unmanned tactical vehicle lab in Macomb County is advancing autonomous combat systems critical to future military operations.
lNorthern Strike, the largest National Guard Bureau-sponsored military exercise in the United States, brings together over 7,000 participants from 25 states, one territory, and four international partners. Centered at Camp Grayling Maneuver Training Center and Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center in Michigan, this exercise leverages Michigan’s unique terrain and airspace to enhance military readiness while contributing approximately $30 million annually to local economies.
lThe Michigan Maritime Manufacturing Initiative is advancing the design, development, and production of cutting-edge maritime technologies, including autonomous and unmanned naval systems. By leveraging Michigan’s manufacturing expertise and its strategic location near the Great Lakes, this initiative positions the state as a critical player in supporting the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard modernization efforts, while fostering collaboration among defense contractors, research institutions, and small businesses.
“MDEX is the essential forum where Michigan’s groundbreaking innovations in defense are showcased and advanced,” said Misty Martin, MDEX 2025 Event Chair. “This event brings together the unmatched industrial capacity, military expertise, and innovative spirit that make Michigan indispensable to America’s national security.”
Join Us at MDEX 2025
The NDIA Michigan Chapter invites all stakeholders—government officials, industry leaders, small business owners, and members of the media—to join us at MDEX 2025 and experience firsthand why Michigan remains America’s defense innovation capital. Registration is free but required by March 24. Visit mdex-ndia.com for more details.
About NDIA Michigan Chapter
The National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Michigan Chapter has been dedicated to supporting America’s warfighters since its founding in 1944. As a nonprofit organization committed to fostering collaboration between government, industry, and academia, NDIA Michigan Chapter serves as a vital connector within America’s defense community. Its leadership in organizing events like MDEX ensures that Michigan remains indispensable to advancing national security objectives. For more info, visit: https://www.ndia-mich.org.
