TARDEC to Support Southeastern Michigan Automotive-Robotics Initiative

In efforts to partner Michigan’s automotive-based companies with Department of Defense (DOD) robotic requirements, several organizations are coming together to create an Automotive-Robotics Cluster July 28 and 29 at Oakland University, Rochester, MI. 

The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International Great Lakes Chapter (AVUSI-GLC) is hosting the event at the Oakland Center to initiate business planning for a Robotics Cluster Initiative. 

The Small Business Administration (SBA) and U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) are co-hosting the event. Other organizations involved include the DOD Office of Small Business Programs, Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Automation Alley. 

“The goal of the initiative is to create a roadmap and help identify Michigan automotive-based corporations to grow the emerging robotics cluster in Michigan,” explained Dave Thomas, AVUSI-GLC President and TARDEC Intelligent Ground Systems Director. “We are hoping to expand the Defense Department’s Mentor-Protégé Robotics Initiative by helping these corporations compete for prime contract and subcontract awards.” 

The DOD Mentor-Protégé Program assists small businesses (Protégés) to successfully compete for contracts by partnering with large companies (Mentors) under individual, project-based agreements. 

“Michigan has the people, expertise and academic institutions to build on,” Thomas said. 

During the workshop, the SBA will host a small business resource center workshop to provide information about resources available through the SBA, DOD, MEDC and other economic development authorities. 

For more information about registering for the event visit www.auvsigreatlakes.org