Intel Quarterly - January 2024

• Welcome to the fifth edition of Macomb County A & D Intel Quarterly
• Michigan officials announce Air Force decision to base KC-46A tankers at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, continue push for fighter mission
• Advancing Michigan's defense sector: Macomb Community College's groundbreaking investment in the Mobility and Sustainability Center
• Q&A with Michigan Air and Space Forces Association President Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Doug Slocum
• Why we are the Air and Space Forces Association
• Valuation analysis reveals insights for Macomb County Chamber's Aerospace and Defense Committee 
• Q&A with NAMC COO Warren Sponsler
• Gain expertise and funding to improve your business
• Upcoming Events
• Reach out to us - We can help
• Articles, Subscriptions, Connect with us

Introduction

Happy New Year! I hope you and yours had a wonderful holiday season. 

We had a very busy and productive year in both the aerospace and defense sectors despite the uncertainties of defense spending, the ongoing discussion around the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), and the laddering of continuing resolutions to avert a government shutdown. Notably, the adage “out with the old, in with the new” is playing out strongly in Macomb County’s A&D sector. 

Last year, the Army moved forward with awarding $1.6 billion to American Rheinmetall and General Dynamic Land Systems (GDLS) to develop prototypes for the XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle (MICV), formerly known as the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV). This new platform is one to watch as it shifts the future mission in next generation combat vehicles and will ultimately replace the M2 Bradley that has been in service since the early 1980s. Another platform, the Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV), manufactured by BAE Systems, went into full-rate production this last summer. The AMPV replaces the legacy M113 which was first deployed during the Vietnam War. 

Most recently, we celebrated a major win for Selfridge Air National Guard Base with the basing announcement of KC-46A tankers which will replace the aging KC-135 Stratotankers that have been around for 60+ years. See the story below!

With these new programs and missions, comes many opportunities for both the A&D sectors in our region. For this edition of our newsletter, we have expanded our reach and invited two new contributors to provide their insight. Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Doug “Odie” Slocum will be telling us about the good work of the Air and Space Forces Association (AFA). Slocum is the president of the AFA and the former wing commander for the 127th Wing and Selfridge Air National Guard Base.

In addition, you will hear from Warren Sponsler, the chief operating officer of the National Advanced Mobility Consortium (NAMC). He has more than 28 years of leading high-performing organizations, inspiring people, building teams and driving change. 

The pair join regular contributors Kelley Lovati, president and CEO of the Macomb County Chamber and Patrick Rouse, the director of workforce and continuing education, engineering and advanced technology for Macomb Community College.

We have much to share and hope you enjoy the 2024 winter edition of the Aerospace and Defense Intel Quarterly newsletter!

Michigan officials announce Air Force decision to base KC-46A tankers at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, continue push for fighter mission

The U.S. Air Force has selected Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County to host a new squadron of 12 KC-46A refueling tankers.

The announcement was made Jan. 11 by Michigan’s U.S. senators and representatives, as well as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

The elected officials released this statement:

“We welcome this exciting news that will help to secure the future of Selfridge Air National Guard Base for decades to come. The twelve KC-46A refueling tankers – a larger unit than the eight KC-135s now at Selfridge – are next-generation aircraft that will strengthen American defense operations and capabilities for future threats, particularly as we prepare for potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific. Operating these tankers out of Selfridge will ensure the base – and Michigan – remain essential to U.S. military strategy while supporting local jobs and our state’s robust defense sector. Our bipartisan coalition pushed for basing KC-46s and a future fighter mission at Selfridge, holding dozens of meetings and calls with senior Air Force officials and hosting them in Michigan to emphasize the importance of our state and Selfridge to national security. Our delegation is grateful to the Air Force for their professionalism throughout this process. Importantly, Air Force officials have made it clear that this decision will not prevent Selfridge from being considered for a future fighter mission. We remain committed to achieving that goal.”

The Air Force informed the officials that they will base 12 KC-46As at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, beginning in 2029, prior to the divestment of the KC-135s. These new, next-generation tankers provide many enhanced capabilities, including the ability to refuel multiple aircraft types on the same mission and versatile cargo capacity. Additionally, KC-46As have advanced self-protection, defensive, and communication capabilities, improving its ability to operate in future conflicts. 

Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel was thankful for the new mission coming to Selfridge, he said that won’t stop the region from trying to secure a fighter mission as well.

“Although we’re thankful for the tankers, that’s an important and very strategic move on behalf of our federal delegation, we are still very hopeful and supportive of fighting for those fighters at the base as well,” Hackel said.

This announcement comes after the lawmakers and governor recently urged U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall to select Selfridge Air National Guard Base to host a new squadron of KC-46A refueling tankers. The letter to Secretary Kendall highlighted Selfridge’s unique capability to host these tankers while reiterating the authors’ commitment to ensuring Selfridge is also selected to host a new, long-term fighter jet mission. This came after the Air Force identified Selfridge as “an indispensable source of tanker capacity for our national security” in a letter to Peters and Stabenow in 2021.

The tanker mission is estimated to bring more than 1,000 military personnel to Selfridge, which currently hosts more than 1,400 Michigan Air National Guard jobs, including nearly 1,000 full-time personnel. 

Selfridge, an ideal Air Force training space, provides access to the largest military airspace complex east of the Mississippi River, hosts units from every component of the U.S. military, is located on an international border, and is joint integrated with the National All-Domain Warfighting Center. Launched in Gov. Whitmer’s first term, Selfridge’s Kelly Johnson Joint All-Domain Innovation Center leverages Michigan’s research universities, booming defense industry, and engineering, cyber, and technological expertise to provide a premier venue for collaboration in direct support of the National Defense Strategy.

Economically, Selfridge boasts an estimated $850 million in economic impact state-wide, affecting approximately 5,000 military and civilian support personnel. Selfridge is anchored with a strong and vibrant Base Community Council that strengthens the relationship between Southeast Michigan’s civilian and military communities.

Advancing Michigan's defense sector: Macomb Community College's groundbreaking investment in the Mobility and Sustainability Center

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer recently signed supplemental spending bills, allocating a $26 million capital outlay toward the $58.5 million comprehensive renovation and expansion of Macomb Community College's M Building on its South Campus in Warren.

This renovation is vital to the aerospace and defense industry, particularly in the realm of ground vehicle development, with close ties to the Tank Automotive Command (TACOM) and DEVCOM's Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) located in Macomb County.

Currently, approximately half of the college's skilled trades programs are based in the building, encompassing key areas such as automotive technology, climate control, civil technology, construction (including licensed electrician and plumber training), architectural technology and marine maintenance technology.

MCC President James O. Sawyer IV emphasized the significance of the planned transformation, noting "The Mobility and Sustainability Center is vital infrastructure to support Macomb Community College’s ability to uniquely address the talent development needs of Michigan’s automotive, construction, manufacturing, energy and boating industries." 

This development aligns seamlessly with the defense sector's talent needs, contributing to the cultivation of a skilled workforce poised to tackle the challenges in high-tech, high-demand and high-wage occupations.

The project will reimagine the existing 1980s-era 74,900 square-foot facility into a state-of-the-art, 131,000 square-foot Mobility and Sustainability Center. The

the center's design reflects a forward-thinking approach, incorporating flexible lab and teaching environments tailored to meet the evolving needs of the defense sector. Special emphasis will be on addressing emerging trends in electric vehicles, sustainable energy management and advanced construction methodologies.

Crucially, the new facility is engineered for adaptability, ensuring it can keep pace with rapidly changing technology. This includes enhanced data infrastructure, increased electrical capacity, and expanded classroom and lab spaces, providing a conducive environment for students to pursue high-demand career pathways in the defense and aerospace sectors.

The bipartisan support garnered from Macomb County’s delegation to the Michigan House of Representatives and Michigan Senate underscores the project's significance.

Rep. Denise Mentzer played a pivotal role in navigating the capital outlay request through the appropriations process, noting "This exciting and innovative project will be transformational for Macomb Community College, for Macomb County businesses, and for the students."

The project is in its planning phase, which involves review and approvals from the state and the college’s board of trustees. Construction is tentatively projected to commence in early 2026, with an estimated 18-month timeline for completion. This initiative is poised to contribute substantially to the education and training of a workforce prepared to drive advancements in the defense industry, specifically addressing the needs of partners like TACOM and GVSC in Macomb County.

Macomb Community College remains committed to fostering collaboration, innovation and excellence in the pursuit of shared goals within the aerospace and defense sector.

Patrick Rouse is the director of workforce and continuing education, engineering and advanced technology for Macomb Community College.

Q&A with Michigan Air and Space Forces Association President Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Doug Slocum

Brig. Gen. (Ret) Doug Slocum, known to his friends as Odie, is the president of the Michigan Air and Spaces Forces Association (AFA). He formerly served as the wing commander for the 127th Wing and Selfridge Air National Guard Base for nearly five years (November 2014-May 2019). Slocum also served more than 14 years in the Air National Guard. 

1. Tell us about the mission of your organization.

The Air and Space Forces Association was founded by the very same pioneers who founded the U.S. Air Force in 1947. Our service men and women are limited in what they can do and say while wearing the uniform. The Air Force Association (AFA) is the community engagement and advocacy voice for the Air Force, and, as of two years ago, The Space Force. AFA continues to lend a strong, unified voice in promoting dominant U.S. Air and Space Forces as the foundation of a strong national defense; to honor and support our Airmen, Guardians, and their families; and to remember and respect our enduring heritage. We accomplish the mission using three pillars. One is to advocate and promote for the strongest aerospace forces in the world. Two is to educate the public on the critical need for unrivaled aerospace power and promote STEM education. And three is to support total force Airmen, Guardians and their families and members of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP).
 

2. What are some of the current initiatives your organization is working on? 

The Michigan AFA has a strong program of community engagement in the Macomb County-area primarily through monthly events we call “Business Over Breakfast”. With 80-100 attendees every month, we network, eat, and then have engaging presentations on a wide variety of subjects from our military, history, veterans, caring-for-people programs, industry, emerging technology and much more. Our efforts now are focused on expanding these opportunities across Michigan and engaging our amazingly diverse communities, industry and membership. As we grow and expand, we’re seeing more opportunities to lead not only our state, but to serve as a role model for other states to emulate in being an efficient and effective voice for our air and space forces and an advocate for aerospace and defense.
 

3. What are some of the challenges your organization is dealing with?

As we grow and increase our reach across the state, we are always looking for volunteers and sponsors to help us in our mission to educate, advocate, and support. We’ve introduced a new and streamlined organizational structure in the state that will allow us to centralize all the administrative functions and yet decentralize the community engagement and networking opportunities to allow our volunteers to focus their time and talents on the productive and rewarding activities.  As I’m always fond of saying, “AFA is a verb”. We’re always looking for that next great chance to have a hand’s on, face-to-face and enlightening event. It’s always a challenge nowadays to get the word out about the great things happening in Michigan. We’re continuing to champion social media, text, email, and other mediums to showcase the great future of aerospace and defense in Michigan.     

4. Why is Michigan, and specifically Macomb County, such an ideal destination for aerospace and defense companies?

America’s “Arsenal of Democracy” seems like a trite and overused term with roots to the phenomenon of World War II when Michigan answered the call and equipped the world to defend freedom. That very same spirit, innovation, talent, experience, and investment remain embedded in our DNA, and we have a foundation of unparallelled capacity and capability that remains unrivaled to this day. I believe Michigan stands perfectly positioned as the answer to our nation’s national security needs in an increasingly dangerous world. With rapidly changing threats and shifting requirements, Michigan’s dynamic and unique industrial capability can again answer that call. I think it’s an exciting time for Michigan with an amazing future in aerospace and defense and companies are realizing the great opportunities they have in setting roots as part of the “Arsenal of Democracy.” The Michigan AFA teams with other organizations across the state to champion and advocate for our industrial partners.
 

5. What are the most important issues currently facing the aerospace and defense industries?

As we look to secure our supply chains from overseas sources or from transportation limitations, we can also look at self-reliance and efficiencies down the road to reduce these national security vulnerabilities. That’s easier said than done as it involves politicians, diplomatic relationships, industrial incentive to source domestically, and a steep hill of challenging coordination and communication. Also, one of the biggest issues facing Michigan today is the need to synchronize our state’s messaging as well as “asks'' across the political, diplomatic, military and economic development spectrums. I believe, and others have also identified, that our state would reap huge benefits from a coordinated, bipartisan, cross-disciplined single set of Michigan priorities to empower cooperation, agility, and economy and ultimately, growth. 

Why we are the Air and Space Forces Association

By Doug Slocum, Brig Gen USAF (Ret)

I thought that I should profile some of our members and give you an idea of why they participate; how they benefit from their membership, and perhaps some of our readers will relate.

Quite a few of our members are current and former service members. I fall into that category and I, with them, participate because we have lived the life and understand the need for education, advocacy and support of those currently in uniform, as well as those who have retired. You can see it in their eyes, the passion and intensity.

Most people are surprised to learn that you do not need to have been a member of our armed forces, let alone the Air Force or Space Force, in order to be a member of the AFA.

We have members who are educators, and they utilize the extensive STEM resources that our organization makes available to supplement those provided by their school system. Private and public-school educators can access significant resources that can help their students become interested and maintain their interest in the fascinating world of science, technology, engineering and math.

Networking is a significant reason to be a member of the AFA. The demographics of our organization are such that you may sit at a table and find that you are talking with the head of an aerospace engineering company, or the CEO of a large distribution organization, or the owner and sole employee of a company that specializes in decorated sugar cookies.

Most networking organizations are salespeople talking to other salespeople, where we have a number of active business owners among our members and that presents interesting opportunities for introductions that otherwise may not be possible.

The major business owners participate because of the value of the information available to the members as well as the personal interactions. It’s not unusual to receive news in the daily Air & Space Forces Magazine that is emailed to the members each morning, that otherwise may not appear on the entertainment or news channels for a day or two.

A number of politicians and their staffs participate in the monthly meetings. You may find that you are sitting with a U.S. congressman or senator. That conversation is likely to be interesting at the meeting and again when you return home.

The bottom line is that the people who participate in the Air & Space Forces Association are some of the most productive members of our society. 

If becoming familiar with the people that make our economy go is important to you and if you want to make a difference in the lives of our service members, past, present and future then there is no better place to invest your time than the AFA.

Check us out: www.afa.org/.

Brig. Gen. USAF (Ret.) Doug “Odie” Slocum,  is president of the Michigan Air and  Spaces Forces Association (AFA).

Valuation analysis reveals insights for Macomb County Chamber's Aerospace and Defense Committee

The Aerospace and Defense Committee of the Macomb County Chamber has recently completed a comprehensive valuation analysis, providing valuable insights into the committee's performance and future objectives. 

The primary focus areas for the committee moving forward include awareness and education, collaboration, marketing and messaging.

Awareness and education:

A fundamental goal of the committee is to enhance awareness and education within the aerospace and defense industry. The committee has outlined key initiatives, including increasing industry participation, implementing educational programs for high school career days, utilizing billboard messaging, engaging in lobbying efforts with state legislators, organizing delegation visits, and conducting targeted outreach at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) conference.

Collaboration:

Recognizing collaboration as a cornerstone for success in any industry, the committee emphasizes forging partnerships with industry-specific companies, government agencies, academic institutions, legislators, and A&D-focused groups such as the National Defense Industry Association (NDIA), Women in Defense (WID), AUSA, Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (AIAM), and Air & Space Forces Association (AFA). The aim is to develop unified messaging and a strong voice for the industry.

Messaging:

The committee underscores the importance of clear and impactful messaging in developing and conveying a compelling narrative about the Aerospace and Defense industry in Macomb County and greater Michigan. Consistent and focused messaging is crucial for building awareness of the region's workforce talent and research and development assets.

Marketing:

Effective marketing is deemed essential for promoting the created messaging. The committee is targeting various channels, including this newsletter, the AUSA conference, the Detroit Arsenal information book, and the National Guard Association of Michigan (NGAM) conference. Talent attraction campaigns and social media videos are planned to highlight all that Macomb County has to offer.

As 2024 unfolds, numerous opportunities exist to continue building momentum and share the narrative of Macomb County's aerospace and defense industry. 

 If you would like to join the committee, we meet the first Monday of the month at 12:30 p.m. Contact Kelley Lovati at kelley@macombcountychamber.com

Kelley Lovati is the president and CEO of the Macomb County Chamber.

Q&A with NAMC COO Warren Sponsler

Warren Sponsler is the chief operating officer of the National Advanced Mobility Consortium (NAMC). According to his LinkedIn profile, he has more than 28 years of leading high-performing organizations, inspiring people, building teams and driving change.

1. Tell us about the mission of your organization.

The National Advanced Mobility Consortium Inc. (NAMC) is a 501c3 non-profit corporation that provides professional opportunities and connections to deliver cutting-edge technologies for the U.S. warfighter.

Our organization is focused on military ground mobility technologies to include autonomous systems, robotics, platforms and supporting capabilities. As one of the longest-serving Department of Defense (DoD) consortiums, NAMC acts as a bridge between the DoD and the approximately 500-member organizations from across the United States that make up our consortium. NAMC’s member organizations include large defense contractors, small businesses, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions. Small businesses make up nearly 70% of NAMC’s total membership. Our mission includes engaging small businesses and commercial entities who would not normally do business with the government, as these organizations provide unique insights and solutions for our warfighters.

2. What are some of the current initiatives your organization is working on?

In September 2023, NAMC was awarded the Detroit Arsenal Innovative (DAI) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) managed by the United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) located at the Detroit Arsenal. This contracting mechanism allows NAMC to facilitate prototype projects in a variety of capability areas through our expansive member base. Our current focus is delivering on that contract by streamlining processes to make working with the government easier and expanding opportunities for members to bring their innovative solutions to our government customers.

NAMC has also established numerous strategic partnerships including support of Fisher House Michigan and its efforts to assist the more than 600,000 veterans and service members currently residing in our state.

NAMC has pledged $125,000 over five years to support veterans and their families with lodging and transportation. This relationship allows us to support not only current and future service members but also those who have previously served in the nation’s defense.

3. What are some of the challenges your organization is dealing with?

With the award of our most recent contract, our organization has seen rapid growth and is currently experiencing the challenges of increased workflow and an expanded team. We are seeing an increased demand for the services that we provide to the DoD and continue to focus on maintaining our reputation as a responsive, agile, and customer-friendly partner for both our government customers and member organizations.

Additionally, as the needs of the DoD continue to evolve in response to the changing requirements of the future battlefield and ongoing modernization efforts, the required capabilities of our member companies continue to evolve. This includes further growth in technical areas such as robotics, lightweighting, cybersecurity, vehicle protection, advanced energy storage and autonomy. We are always on the lookout for organizations of all types that can deliver the innovative technology needs of our government customers.

4. Why is Michigan, and specifically Macomb County, such an ideal destination for aerospace and defense companies?

NAMC’s primary customers are headquartered at the Detroit Arsenal in Macomb County. Detroit Arsenal, the “Arsenal of Democracy,” houses those organizations on the cutting edge of the DoD’s ground vehicle development efforts to include the Next Generation Cross Functional Team (NGCVCFT) and GVSC – both a part of the U.S. Army’s Army Futures Command. Additionally, the Detroit Arsenal supports the acquisition activities of all the U.S. Army’s major vehicle program offices as well as the Tank and Automotive Command (TACOM). Many of the major industry providers also have established footprints in Macomb County and the surrounding area.

NAMC maintains two offices: its headquarters in Ann Arbor and a satellite office in Sterling Heights. The Sterling Heights office is located at the Velocity Center, one of Michigan’s 21 SmartZone technology accelerators with a focus on defense and aerospace. This gives us unique access to support our government customers and our member organizations. We utilize this office to host collaboration events, industry engagements and meetings to further develop opportunities for the U.S. government and business growth.

5. What are the most important issues currently facing the aerospace and defense industries?

The military ground vehicle community is continuing to make the transition to open systems architecture and digital engineering to expand modularity, enable modernization and facilitate the integration of new technologies. This constitutes a new way of doing things and resulted in the defense industry changing much about how it develops technologies and does business.

Finally, the ever-evolving future battlefield, as evidenced by ongoing conflicts overseas and developments from our adversaries, demands the rapid integration of new technologies. While the DoD has made great strides in improving processes and developing solutions, there is still much work to be done to lower barriers to entry and increase efficiency. NAMC is proud to be a part of such a rich defense ecosystem here in Michigan and utilizing our DAI OTA, facilitating the delivery of capabilities for the nation’s warfighters.

Gain expertise and funding to improve your business

Through a partnership with the Global Epicenter of Mobility (GEM) initiative, the Economic Growth Institute at the University of Michigan has launched the Advanced Mobility Supply Chain Transformation Center (STC).

The STC provides qualified manufacturers with a highly experienced team and a 50/50 cost share of matching funds for technical assistance projects, up to $100,000. 

The goal is to assist small- to medium-size manufacturers in the greater Detroit region to transform as electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous vehicles and advanced manufacturing shape the future of mobility. The STC will assess manufacturers’ business to see who can federal grant funding.

The combination of funding and expertise can prepare your business for success in the rapidly changing mobility landscape.

“Our team will help you stabilize, diversify, grow and responsibly succeed,” Economic Growth Institute Project Manager Chelsea Gilbert said. 

Manufacturers in the Greater Detroit region are encouraged to review the program requirements and engage with the Economic Growth Institute team. The team can identify leverage points where the grant funds can strengthen your organization.

Program eligibility requirements include:

• Less than 500 employees.
• Operations in Genesee, Lapeer, Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Shiawassee, St. Clair, Washtenaw or Wayne County.
• Operations in at least 10% of annual business revenue from the mobility sector – currently or within the past five years.

For more information, Macomb County Senior Economic Developer Todd Seibert at 586-719-0349 or todd.seibert@macombgov.org

Upcoming events of the quarter

Here is the list of upcoming Aerospace and Defense related events in and around Michigan and around the country ...

If you have an event coming up in 2024, please contact us and we can include it in an upcoming newsletter.

Reach out to us - We can help

As the economic development representatives for the aerospace and defense industries in Macomb County, we 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.

Curt Chowanic
(586) 242-3643
curt.chowanic@macombgov.org

Todd Seibert
(586) 719-0349
todd.seibert@macombgov.org

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