Building the Future of Aerospace & Defense: A Québec–Michigan Breakfast Forum

​Building the Future of Aerospace & Defense: A Québec–Michigan Breakfast Forum is a targeted networking and information forum for Québec companies attending MDEX/Xponential. The event provides practical insights into Michigan’s aerospace and defense ecosystem, U.S. defense market trends, and business opportunities in the state. Through expert presentations and discussions, participants will learn how Michigan supports international defense companies and connect with key public‑ and private‑sector stakeholders who can support market entry, partnerships, and growth.

​Agenda

​7:30 – 8:00 AM
Registration & Light Breakfast

​8:00 AM
Opening & Introduction
MC: Sanaa El Maazi, Trade Attaché, Québec Government Office in Chicago

​8:05 – 8:10 AM
Welcoming Remarks
Jean-François Hould, Delegate, Québec Government Office in Chicago

​8:10 – 8:15 AM
Welcoming Remarks
Bruno Marchand, Mayor of Québec City

​8:15 – 8:45 AM
Overview of Michigan’s Economic Landscape
Paul Krepps, Senior Global Business Attraction Manager, Michigan Economic Development Corporation

​8:45 – 9:05 AM
Michigan’s Defense Strategy Overview
John Gutierrez, Retired Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps; Executive Director, Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation, State of Michigan

​9:05 – 9:15 AM
Southeast Michigan: America’s Midwest Aerospace & Defense Center of Excellence
Vicki Selva, Executive Director, Detroit Region Defense Coalition

​9:15 – 9:45 AM
U.S. Defense Budget: Insights & Outlook
Michael D. Clow, Principal & Founder, Fresh Coast IQ, LLC

​9:45 – 10:15 AM
Legal Insights on Doing Business in the Defense Sector
Anthony Scalise, Shareholder, Butzel Long
Derek Mullins, Shareholder, Butzel Long
Beth Gotthelf, Shareholder & Chair, Aerospace & Defense Industry Team, Butzel Long

​10:15 – 10:30 AM
Q&A Discussion

​10:30 – 11:00 AM
Closing Remarks & Networking

​11:30 AM
Program Adjourns