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NGAUS once again brings together National Guard leaders and officials from defense companies at the association’s 28th Annual Industry Day.
Industry officials will gather Feb. 9-10 at the National Guard Memorial, the association’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., to learn of the Guard's latest requirements. The event was moved to February due to the government shutdown.
NGAUS Industry Day provides an insider's view of National Guard strategic needs, a forum with National Guard and congressional leaders, opportunities to learn more about NGAUS legislative priorities and for networking with industry peers and key decision makers.
This year, increased business-to-business networking opportunities during the event will enhance companies’ understanding of the Guard’s environment and improve their ability to engage and provide relevant solutions.
Industry Day serves as an educational platform, helping companies, especially those new to the defense market, navigate the complexities of working with the Guard. Speakers include Robert A. Burton, partner with Crowell & Moring’s Government Contracts Group in the firm’s Washington, D.C. office.
“Every Industry Day brings new learning opportunities, even for seasoned participants,” said retired Chief Warrant Officer 3 Darin Gilderoy, the chair of the NGAUS Corporate Advisory Panel.
Attendees will also learn about the role NGAUS plays in educating Congress on Guard needs.
"Industry Day offers corporate partners a unique, day-and-a-half immersion into the National Guard environment, providing direct exposure to Guard operations and priorities," said Gilderoy.
"The event clarifies who the major players are within the Guard and helps industry partners understand the Guard’s capability gaps. This understanding is essential for businesses to identify how their products or services can best support the Guard’s needs," continued Gilderoy, who began work as the smart storage solutions - national sales manager, government at Stanley Black & Decker after retiring from the Army.
“NGAUS is a crucial bridge between the Guard and industry, facilitating communication and collaboration to address capability gaps effectively,” added Gilderoy. Among those scheduled to speak is Acting Director, Air National Guard Maj. Gen. Duke A. Pirak.
According to Nina Reiss, the association's industry liaison, NGAUS expects almost 200 attendees. Reiss is also scheduled to speak during the event.
The two-day event begins with a mini-Industry Day session, "Working with NGAUS and the Guard," that focuses on identifying pressing capability gaps and discussing strategies for adopting new solutions at both the state and national level.
Senior Guard leaders will explain their priorities directly to industry participants, providing valuable insight into current needs and future directions.
The mini-Industry Day also explains the NGAUS resolution process, illustrating how industry feedback can influence future defense appropriations for equipment and training. The NGAUS fiscal 2027 resolution books will be available for all participants.
More information about the event and registration is available here.
—By Michael Metz
