In September, NIDIA partnered with the Defense Innovation Networking Group (D!NG) to host Heartland Rising: Fort Wayne and the Future of the Golden Dome in downtown Fort Wayne. The event brought together more than 100 attendees from industry, government, and academia to explore Fort Wayne’s expanding role in the nation’s defense landscape.
The evening featured keynote speaker Nick Darrah, VP of Partnerships & Government Relations at NEI and NIDIA/D!NG Board Member, along with panelists Rob Mitrevski (L3 Harris), Eric Smith, and Laura Sunden (Motorola), moderated by Kea Matory (Purdue Applied Research Institute) and emceed by Jeremy Brilliant (Brilliant Marketing & Communications).
Attendees discussed the Golden Dome initiative, a multi-domain missile defense architecture aimed at detecting and neutralizing emerging threats through a layered system of sensors, interceptors, and command systems. The initiative represents the next generation of U.S. defense technology, and Fort Wayne is uniquely positioned to contribute through advanced manufacturing, sensor development, and its deep innovation ecosystem.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, participated in planning, and sponsored the event. Your engagement and support help NIDIA and its partners continue to strengthen Northeast Indiana’s role in national defense and innovation—leading from the heartland.
