Macomb County welcomed a team of representatives from Lockheed Martin for an invitation-only matchmaking event today. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 97,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.
The event, spearheaded by the Macomb County Chamber and Macomb County Department of Planning & Economic Development, featured purchasing experts from across Lockheed Martin. Other partners included Macomb Community College, Macomb Regional Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) and Pure Michigan Business Connect.
“This opportunity to highlight the high-tech capabilities of local companies really shows the commitment of all the partners involved to expand and solidify our manufacturing base,” said Grace Shore, CEO of the Macomb County Chamber. “This is a tremendous opportunity for our region.”
The planning team worked with Lockheed Martin to develop an online vetting process for interested companies and then identified and invited businesses from across the state to apply. Overall, 300 companies applied to participate. Of that, 120 met the basic qualifications and went through a second vetting process. Ultimately, 50 companies from across the state were invited to attend.
The event was held at Macomb Community College’s University Center in Clinton Township and opened with remarks from Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel and Gen. Slocum, commander of Selfridge Air National Guard Base. Officials from Lockheed Martin offered overviews of each division and procurement needs. After lunch, one-on-one networking between companies and procurement specialists were held. The event ended with a networking reception.
“Macomb County’s aerospace industry is a growing sector and the linkage to our supply chain is strong,” said Vicky Rad, deputy director for the Macomb County Department of Planning & Economic Development. “This was a wonderful opportunity for us to help connect them to a world-class aerospace leader.”