MOLINE, Illinois -- The Quad Cities area has global importance for the Army and DOD, a top Army leader said in the opening address at the National Defense Industrial Association's 8th Annual Midwest Small Business Government Contracting Symposium here June 3.
Gen. Dennis L. Via, commanding general of the U.S. Army Materiel Command told more than 400 attendees that now is the time to become innovative partners in working with the government.
"As budgets get tighter under sequestration, as Army's end strength decreases, as our footprint in certain parts of the world decreases, while at the same time, our requirements increase, the U.S. Army's reliance on having the most advanced, effective, and efficient capabilities will become even more important, which is where industry can help," Via said. "Against this backdrop of decreasing resources … there remains a great need and also numerous opportunities for your companies as we move forward."
Via said the symposium put attendees face to face with the government's A-Team -- with experts representing the Army in the areas of logistics, sustainment, manufacturing, technology and more.
"Decision makers and subject matter experts representing these organizations are the very individuals who will help shape our Army's logistics, manufacturing, and technology efforts, and the readiness of our Army for years to come," Via said.
The general said Rock Island Arsenal was one of the Army Materiel Command's centers of excellence and the Quad Cities community was among the strongest in the nation.
Other government leaders attending the symposium include Maj. Gen. Kevin O'Connell, commanding general, Army Sustainment Command; Maj. Gen. Theodore C. Harrison III, commanding general, Army Contracting Command; Harry Hallock, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army (Procurement); Don Tison, Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff G-8; and Brig. Gen, Kristin French, commanding general, Joint Munitions Command.
The Midwest Small Business Government Contracting Symposium is a two-day event in which military and civilian leaders provide briefings and hold question and answer sessions for industry. There are also numerous networking and matchmaking opportunities. The Rock Island Center of Excellence Advanced Planning Briefing for Industry is also held during the symposium.
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