September 1, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. EST

We will discuss current resources available to manufacturers in NC around additive manufacturing which will include NC State Industry Expansion Solutions (IES) and First Flight Venture Center’s Hangar6. We will also discuss workforce implications of shifting to additive manufacturing and hear from AmericaMakes (AM) on the work they have been doing in competency modeling and credential development at the national level. Guest speakers for this webinar include Sam Dirani, shop manager for Hangar6 at First Flight Venture Center and Josh Cramer, education and workforce director for AmericaMakes. 

Takeaways: Understand how and where to learn more about additive manufacturing (free resources) and explore a prototype project to see AM in action.

Previously Aired: September 1, 2020,
Register to view: Zoom Presentation »

September 8, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m. EST

We will discuss why cybersecurity is important to the DoD supply chain and will continue to be a needed element of business continuity planning for all successful companies moving forward. The speaker for this event will be Chris Newborn, a member of the Department of Defense (DoD) Acquisitions, cybersecurity workforce and professor of technology (Cybersecurity Emphasis) at the Defense Acquisition University (DAU). 

Takeaways: Current Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) Cybersecurity Requirements and Future Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements; what to expect and impact on DoD contractors and sub-contractors.

Previously Aired: September 8, 2020,
Register to view: Zoom Presentation »

September 15, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. EST

This webinar will examine workforce development from two perspectives.  First, Emily Nicholson of the Northeast Workforce Development Board will provide information on what workforce development boards do and how they can assist manufacturers.  She will also examine workforce trends, including the effects of COVID-19 on the workforce in NC. Following that, Maureen Little of the NC Community College System and Dr. Pam Howze of Wake Technical Community College will speak about customized training, apprenticeship programs and other credentialing programs.

Takeaways: (1) Understanding of how your local Workforce Development Board can provide assistance.  (2) Increased awareness of community college offerings for current and future employees.

Previously Aired: September 15, 2020,
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September 22, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. EST

We will discuss the current state of defense contracting in North Carolina. The discussion will focus on challenges, opportunities and more. Projection of what the defense contracting landscape looks like for defense contractors in North Carolina in FY 2021 will be provided. Speakers for this event include KeAnne Hoeg, Mark Mills and Scott Dorney. KeAnne Hoeg is the manager of marketing and reporting at NC State’s Industry Expansion Solutions. Mark Mills is the manager of business development at the North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC) and Scott Dorney is the executive director of NCMBC.

Takeaways: Understanding the current landscape for defense contractors in North Carolina and strategies for identifying DoD contracting opportunities in FY 2021

Previously Aired: September 22, 2020,
Register to view: Zoom Presentation »

September 24, 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. EST

Rapid innovation in unmanned aircraft systems technologies (UAS) – drones and autonomous aircraft – holds vast potential for transforming every aspect of defense operations. These new technologies offer enormous opportunities for companies that engage in designing, manufacturing and using UAS technologies for defense purposes. Business and industry experts will share insights on the current landscape for UAS development and innovation, opportunities for business growth through defense contracting and how companies large and small can capitalize on them. The speakers for this webinar include: Amanda Conner, aviation business development manager for the Division of Aviation at the NC Department of Transportation; Basil Yap, UAS program manager for the NC Department of Transportation; Mary Beth Fennell, strategic industry professional for the North Carolina Military Business Center; Lawrence Williams, principal at Capture 10 and Robert Robinson, director of strategic initiatives at Emerging Technology Institute. 

Takeaway: The participant will gain an understanding of the current state of unmanned aircraft systems technologies and related defense contracting opportunities.

Previously Aired: September 24, 2020,
Register to view: Zoom Presentation »