Microelectronics Forum

August 5, 2025 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Innovare Advancement Center
Griffiss Institute
592 Hangar Rd
Rome, NY 13441 

Join us at the 2025 Microelectronics Forum, organized by Upstate Defense—a collaboration between NYSTAR, FuzeHub, CenterState CEO, the Griffiss Institute, Syracuse University, and funded by the DoD Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation. This forum is a prime opportunity for networking, gaining industry insights, and exploring growth opportunities. 

Why Attend?


Supply chain disruptions, global microchip shortages, and abrupt shifts in demand have highlighted the critical need for domestic microelectronics manufacturing. New York State is leading the charge with major players like GlobalFoundries, Wolfspeed, and Micron establishing cutting-edge facilities here. However, the industry thrives on local activities and collaboration.

What to Expect


Attendees will have the chance to:

• Network with Industry Leaders: Connect with key players in the microelectronics industry.

• Gain Insights: Hear from experts about the latest trends and challenges in the field.

• Learn About Entrepreneurial Initiatives: Discover programs and initiatives that support innovation, workforce and supply chain industry sectors.

• Navigate the Federal Procurement Process: Get practical advice on how to engage with federal procurement opportunities.

• Explore Funding Opportunities: Learn about current funding sources and how to access them.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of the conversation shaping the future of microelectronics in New York State. Register now to secure your spot and take advantage of all the valuable resources and connections this event has to offer! 

Event Agenda

Breakfast & Registration

7:45 AM – 8:30 AM

Welcome
8:30 AM – 9:30 AM


Inside the DIU: What You Need to Know
9:30 am – 10:00 am

Panel Discussions

Workforce Discussion – Finding Untapped Talent for Defense Manufacturing Careers

10:00 am – 10:45 am

Supply Chain Discussion – Navigating the DoD Microelectronics Industry

10:45 am – 11:30 am

Innovation Discussion – Funding Opportunities For Companies In the Microelectronics Industry

11:30 am – 12:15 pm

Lunch

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM

 

Optional Afternoon Activities

Tours of Quantum Laboratories – 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM 

Introduction to DoD Supply Chain Workshop, Doing Business with Defense, held by TDO – 2:00PM to 4:30PM – Learn more here

Upstate Makes Partner Meeting – 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM 

Speakers

Jeff Fitzgerald

Technology Development Manager FAST Labs™, BAE Systems

Jennifer Waters

Senior Director of Industry Development, Go-SEMI, Empire State Development

Nicholas Fahrenkopf

Nicholas Fahrenkopf

Technical Director - NORDTECH @ NYCREATES

Saptarsi Bandyopadhyay

National Security | Defense Innovation

Seth Mulligan

Chief Operating Officer, Griffiss Institute

Alejandro Cortese

CEO, Co-founder of OWiC Technologies

Cainaan Web

Surge Career Navigator and Network Manager, CenterState CEO

Amy Stage

Director of Apprenticeship & Workforce Development., MACNY

Franca Armstrong

Executive Director, Apprenticeship Programs at Mohawk Valley Community College

Aimee Durfee

Vice President of Workforce Innovation, CenterState CEO

Kara Jones

Director of Programs & Engagement for Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Centerstate CEO

Don Lynch

Senior Project Manager, TDO

Michael Feng

Sr. Director, Innovation & Partnerships,
The Griffiss Institute

Patty Rechberger

Innovation Fund Manager, FuzeHub

James D’Agostino

MEP Center Director, TDO

John Liddy

Vice President of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, CenterState CEO

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