Microelectronics, Semiconductor Innovation Featured at Key Leader Series

ODON, Ind. (Oct. 3, 2022) - The Crane Regional Defense Group hosted the latest installment of its Key Leader Series September 16 at WestGate Academy in the WestGate@Crane Technology Park.

Jimmy Costa, Senior Vice President of Innovation and Semiconductor Strategy with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, delivered the keynote address. Costa provided insight into the structure of IEDC, its major initiatives and strategies, as well as specific information surrounding microelectronics and semiconductor projects impacting WestGate in collaboration with Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division. Future development appears bright for the Technology Park, featuring plans for large-scale build outs for microelectronic facilities.

This quarterly event brings together defense industry peers, elected officials, small businesses and community organizations to hear from influential keynote speakers on topics related to Naval Support Activity Crane, its missions and the ecosystem that surrounds it.

“It was a pleasure to speak at the most recent CRDG Key Leader Series event,” said Costa. “The IEDC values our close partnership with Crane and we look forward to working together to drive semiconductor innovation at WestGate and throughout the State of Indiana.”

Through the Key Leader Series, participants are able to gain perspective of the many organizations and the level of collaboration required to build an ecosystem like the WestGate@Crane Technology Park. It also creates an environment that welcomes questions and interaction with both the speakers and other attendees.

“Through the Key Leader Series, participants are able to gain perspective of the many organizations and the level of collaboration required to build an innovation ecosystem around a military command like NSWC Crane,” said Phillip Smith, Command Advocacy Lead at NSWC Crane. “It also creates an environment that welcomes questions and interaction with both the speakers and other attendees.”

You can find a link to the IEDC presentation on the CRDG website, here.

The final Key Leader Series of the year will take place Thursday, November 10 at WestGate Academy and will feature Commander James Smith, NSA Crane, to provide a State of the Installation address. CDR Smith will cover strategic goals, operational changes, construction projects as well as the potential for job growth and development and community collaboration. There will also be a special tribute in recognition of Veteran’s Day, Friday, November 11.

To learn more about CRDG, register for the next Key Leader Series, or become a member, visit craneregionaldefensegroup.org.