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South Sound Defense Manufacturing & Innovation Summit

October 1 @ 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
$50
Record investment in defense, aerospace and advanced manufacturing is creating new opportunities for businesses across the supply chain. With a strong manufacturing base, military presence and skilled workforce, the South Sound is well positioned to compete for that growth.

On October 1, we’re partnering with organizations across the region to convene the South Sound Defense Manufacturing & Innovation Summit at Clover Park Technical College. The summit will bring together military and defense leaders, manufacturers, technology companies and procurement experts to explore what’s ahead and how businesses can prepare.

 

Understand where opportunities are developing.

Hear about emerging defense priorities, investment in critical technologies and what these shifts could mean for businesses across the region.

Learn how to pursue government work.

Get practical guidance on government contracting and connect with experts in procurement, technology, workforce, manufacturing and business readiness.

See advanced manufacturing in action.

Tour Clover Park Technical College’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing and experience where the digital and physical worlds intersect and Industry 4.0 comes to life.

New to defense contracting? This event is for you, too.

You don’t need to already work with the military or federal government to attend.

The summit is designed for manufacturers, suppliers, technology companies and other businesses that want to better understand the defense market and where their capabilities could create new opportunities.

Thursday, October 1, 2026

Clover Park Technical College | Lakewood, WA

Tickets: $50 | Lunch provided

Register here: https://washingtonapex.ecenterdirect.com/events/855459

This event is made possible by: Washington APEX Accelerator, Economic Development Board for Tacoma Pierce County, Pacific Northwest Defense Coalition, Thurston County Economic Development Council, Kitsap Economic Development Alliance, Clover Park Technical College, Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance, South Sound Military and Communities Partnership, Impact Washington, and South Sound Manufacturing Industrial Council.

Sponsored by: Pierce County Economic Development Department, Defense Industrial Base Talent Pipeline Program, Clover Park Technical College Foundation

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