Sector Spotlights events feature industry leaders who will share the latest in innovation and collaboration, while providing partnership opportunities through in-person connections.
Defense technology is the research, development, and application of advanced tools, systems, and innovations – advanced materials, AI, cybersecurity, drones, and robotics – used by armed forces and national security agencies for everything from combat gear and weapons to command systems, surveillance, and intelligence. Many innovations start in defense but have commercial applications, and vice versa (e.g., GPS, internet, and thermal imaging).
Networking
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
4:00 – 6:00 PM
Mason’s Brewing Company, 15 Hardy Street, Brewer, ME 04412
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, February 10, 2026
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
(Optional Tour begins at 1:30 PM)
The Roux Institute at Northeastern University, 100 Fore Street, Portland, ME 04101
Event Schedule
11:30 – Networking
12:00 – Program Presentation
Maine’s Expanding Role in Global Defense and Maritime Innovation
12:45 – Q&A
1:00 – Networking
1:30 – Tour of The Roux Institute at Northeastern University (optional)
Members-only event / No cost to attend
Lunch provided
Maine is at the center of a rapidly evolving defense and maritime ecosystem where traditional shipbuilding meets cutting-edge technologies like robotics, composites, energy systems, and advanced manufacturing. With over 19,000 Mainers employed in defense and billions in projected investments over the next decade, opportunities are growing across land, sea, air, and even space.
Beyond shipbuilding, Maine’s industry supports land and air forces, while research hubs like UMaine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center (3D-printed Navy prototypes) and The Roux Institute (national security tech incubator launching in 2026) drive innovation and organizations such as Maine Space Corporation, Maine Defense Industry Alliance, and the Manufacturing Association of Maine are building a regional defense and tech cluster for New England.
Why attend?
- Learn how Maine companies and institutions are shaping the future of defense
- Explore global partnerships and investment trends
- Discover workforce and technology opportunities in a sector poised for growth
Lunch & Learn Featured Speakers
Angela Gillespie, Chief Operating Officer, Howell Laboratories ,Inc.
Angela Gillespie serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Howell Laboratories, Inc. (HLI), a 100% employee-owned company with a 60-year legacy of manufacturing excellence for the U.S. Navy. Over her 23-year tenure at HLI, Angela has built a comprehensive understanding of the business from the ground up, beginning in drafting and design before spending a decade driving international sales for the Shively Broadcast division.
Today, Angela oversees HLI’s complex operations, including the recent strategic acquisitions of GDL Powder Coating and ODAT Machine—a Level 1, SUBSAFE certified manufacturer. Her leadership is central to HLI’s mission of delivering mission-critical fluid processing equipment to the surface and submarine fleet. Angela holds both a B.S. and an M.A. in Leadership and Organizational Studies from the University of Southern Maine. Beyond her executive role, she serves on the Board of Directors for Howell Laboratories, Inc., Howell CleanTech, and is a dedicated mentor for the Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute, fostering the next generation of female leaders.
Chris Torina, Director of Entrepreneurship, The Roux Institute at Northeastern University
Chris Torina is the Director of Entrepreneurship at the Roux Institute, where he is dedicated to advancing and strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem here in Maine. With over 25 years of diverse experience, Chris has held leadership roles across various industries, including as founder and CEO of DeepStacks, one of the world’s leading gaming entertainment brands. After its acquisition by the World Poker Tour, he transitioned into the role of Executive Director, where he spearheaded significant domestic and international initiatives.
Prior to his role at the Roux Institute, Chris was the Chief Operating Officer of Blue Fusion Capital, a real estate investment firm. He also spent over a decade in law enforcement, working as an undercover narcotics task force agent and SWAT team operator before transitioning to entrepreneurship and executive leadership.
In his free time, Chris coaches youth sports, serves on his local town’s economic development advisory board, and enjoys spending time with family and friends. He recently relocated from Los Angeles to Yarmouth, where he lives with his wife and son.