Sector Spotlights events feature industry leaders who will share the latest in innovation and collaboration, while providing partnership opportunities through in-person connections.
Networking
Thursday, November 6, 2025
4:00 – 6:00 PM
(Optional Tour begins at 2:30 PM)
University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469
Event Schedule
2:30 – Tour of the Advanced Structures & Composites Center (35 Flagstaff Road)
The Advanced Structures & Composites Center (ASCC) at the University of Maine is a world-leading, interdisciplinary center for research, education, and economic development encompassing material sciences, advanced manufacturing, and engineering of composites and structures. Since its founding in 1996, with support from the National Science Foundation, the ASCC has financially sponsored more than 2,600 students, received 120 patents, welcomed over 30,000 visitors, created 14 spinoff companies, and has been honored with more than 40 national and international awards for research excellence.
***Registration for the tour is required no later than Oct. 30th for background clearance. Space is limited for up to 40 people on the tour. No photography or bags allowed beyond the lobby. Tour attendees should wear close-toed shoes. Hard hats and safety glasses will be provided for all tour attendees.***
4:00 – Networking Reception at the Foster Center for Innovation (5798 Student Innovation Center)
Enjoy bites and beverages, network with fellow business professionals, and gain valuable insights into innovations and opportunities in Maine’s dynamic Composites sector.
MITC members $10 / Non-members $25
Hors d’oeuvres and cash bar
SPONSORED BY
Lunch & Learn
Thursday, November 13, 2025
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
(Optional Tour begins at 1:45 PM)
Belfast Boathouse, 34 Commercial Street, Belfast, ME 04915
Event Schedule
11:30 – Networking
12:00 – Program Presentation
Strength in Layers: Maine’s Composites Industry on the Global Stage
12:45 – Q&A
1:00 – Networking
1:45 – Tour of Front Street Shipyard (optional)
Join us for an engaging Lunch & Learn session to explore how Maine’s composites sector is shaping the future of advanced manufacturing locally and globally.
Learn how industry leaders, educational institutions, and workforce agencies are working together to ensure Maine remains a hub for innovation in composites.
Key Takeaways:
- Opportunities for Maine composites companies in global markets, including Canada
- Real-world insights from a Maine company working in international trade
- Workforce development through internships, apprenticeships, and upskilling programs
- Cross-border collaboration with Canada to strengthen innovation and growth
Whether you’re a business leader, educator, student, or policymaker, this session will offer valuable perspectives on how Maine is layering strength into its future.
Members-only event / No cost to attend
Lunch provided
Our Lunch & Learn Featured Speakers
Mariah Cunningham-Knaus, Operations Manager, Maine MEP
Mariah Cunningham-Knaus brings 10 years of experience in grant management, nonprofit management, and reporting to her role as Maine MEP’s Operations Manager. In this role Mariah works with the team of Maine MEP Project Managers to ensure Maine MEP is meeting or exceeding the performance metrics set by its federal sponsor. Mariah has worked with Maine MEP since 2014 in a variety of roles and has helped bring in over $1.5 million in grants to the center.
Prior to joining the Maine MEP team full-time in 2023, Mariah worked as a private consultant for Maine’s nonprofit and manufacturing sectors. In this role she focused on grant writing, management, and data analysis for small nonprofits. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy and Management from the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine and a B.A. from the University of Maine.
JB Turner, President & General Manager, Front Street Shipyard
JB Turner is the president and general manager of Front Street Shipyard. Known for his accessibility and hands-on management style, JB personally will provide you with regular updates on the progress of your yachts.
Prior to his time at Front Street Shipyard, he was an owner/operator of Lyman-Morse Boats in Thomaston, ME, from 1998 to 2010. JB grew Lyman-Morse from a staff of 43 to more than 200 by enhancing the yard’s construction and service capabilities.
JB launched his career with Dodson Boat Yard in Stonington, CT, and Wayfarer Marine in Camden, ME. He serves a board member of Maine Built Boats and U.S. Superyacht Association.