ACG Columbus 2026 Aerospace & Defense Dealmaking & Investment Summit

Aerospace & Defense Dealmaking & Investment Summit
Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Vitria on the Square | Columbus, Ohio

Join ACG Columbus for the inaugural Aerospace & Defense Dealmaking & Investment Summit, a premier gathering designed to accelerate investment, partnerships, and growth across the aerospace and defense ecosystem.

This summit creates a unique opportunity for industry leaders, investors, and dealmakers to expand their connections and foster collaboration across the aerospace and defense ecosystem.

This one-day summit will bring together industry leaders, investors, prime contractors, mid-tier suppliers, emerging technology companies, government and military stakeholders, academic institutions, and professional advisors to explore the opportunities shaping the future of aerospace and defense.

Attendees will gain valuable insights into market trends, investment activity, M&A opportunities, innovation, workforce development, and the strategic advantages that position Ohio as a national leader in aerospace and defense. Through thought-provoking content, targeted networking, and facilitated introductions, participants will have the opportunity to connect with key decision-makers and build relationships that drive meaningful business outcomes.

Summit Schedule and Agenda:

9:00 am - 10:30 am: Registration and Networking Open

10:30 am - 10:45 am: Opening Remarks

10:45 am - 11:30 am: 

• Forging the Future: Defense Technology and the Capital Behind It
  Ryan Blackburn, Ecosystem Engagement Lead, Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Ohio
  Joe Chinnici, CEO, ForgeNest
  Kim Gerhart, Chief Sales Officer, One IT
  Mary Kenney, Principal, Heartland Ventures
  Moderator: Josh Kowitt, Aviation & Managing Partner, Emko Capital

11:30 am - 11:45 am: Networking and Refreshment Break

11:45 am - 12:30 pm: 

• From Washington to Ohio: The Economic Future of Aerospace & Defense
  David Burrows, EVP of Engagement, Dayton Development Coalition
  Michael Dustman, Program Director, Military & Federal Sector, Jobs Ohio
  John Horack, VP of Research, Professor, Neil Armstrong Chair in Aerospace Policy, The Ohio State University
  Moderator: Chris Comer, Risk Management Advisor, Lockton

12:30 pm - 1:00 pm: Lunch & Networking

1:00 pm - 1:45 pm:  

• Meeting the Moment: Supply Chain Readiness for Aerospace & Defense Markets
  Muzzammil Ahmed, CFO, Resonant Sciences LLC
  Mike Polefrone, Director, Programs & Supply Chain, Heroux-Devtek
  Moderator: Ryan Brickwood, Principal, Manufacturing & Distribution Industry Lead, Rea Business Advisors

1:45 pm - 2:00 pm: Networking and Refreshment Break

2:00 pm - 2:45 pm:  

• Winning in Aerospace & Defense: What Buyers, Primes, and Investors Want from Middle-Market Companies
  Dan Erb, Owner, Jones Metal Products Company
  Erin Hoffmann, CEO, ArtiFlex Manufacturing
  Luke Wackerle, President, Baker Engineering
  Mathew Walker, Head of Strategic Accounts, Path Robotics
  Moderator: Jeff Cope, Sr. Managing Director, JACO Advisory Group

2:45 pm - 3:00 pm:  Networking and Refreshment Break

3:00 pm - 3:45 pm: 

• From Contract Award to Scalable Growth: Financing Strategies for Aerospace & Defense Companies
  Blake Armstrong, VP Growth, Erebor
  Jenny Clarke, Managing Director, Syndicated Finance, J.P. Morgan
  Chris Hendrickson, VP Member Business Services, Wright-Patt Credit Union
  Nick Pittas, National Sales Manager, United Capital Funding
  Moderator: Kim Dennis, Senior Director, Footprint Capital

3:45 pm - 4:00 pm:  Networking and Refreshment Break  

4:00 pm - 4:45 pm: 

• Dealmaking in a New Defense Era: Where Capital is Flowing and What it Means for Buyers and Sellers
  Jason Burmer, Managing Director, Vance Street Capital
  Peter Frankfort, Managing Director, Greenwich Capital
  Ian Frazier, Senior VP, Tecum Equity
  Meghan Welch, Managing Director, Brown Gibbons Lang & Company
  Moderator: Brett Thornton, Partner, Porter Wright

4:45 pm - 6:00 pm:  Cocktail Reception

Whether you are seeking capital, exploring acquisitions, evaluating strategic partnerships, expanding your supplier network, or gaining deeper insight into the evolving aerospace and defense landscape, this summit provides a unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, build meaningful relationships, and uncover new opportunities for growth.

Be part of the conversations, connections, and deals that will help shape the future of aerospace and defense in Ohio and beyond.