Every October is recognized as Manufacturing Month, and this year, CEDC spotlighted innovation, collaboration, and opportunity within Wisconsin’s defense manufacturing sector. Through two key events — the Defense Manufacturing Supply Chain Conference (DMSCC) and the Collaborative Showcase at W.S. Darley & Co. — CEDC and its partners brought together manufacturers, educators, and defense industry leaders to strengthen local supply chains and highlight the vital role manufacturing plays in driving regional growth.

Connecting Wisconsin’s Defense Manufacturers

More than 60 manufacturers from across the Chippewa Valley and beyond gathered for the first time in Chippewa County to attend the Defense Manufacturing Supply Chain Conference, hosted at Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC). The conference was organized in partnership with CEDC, CVTC, the Wisconsin Procurement Institute (WPI), and NDIA Great Lakes.

The sold-out conference focused on unlocking new opportunities within the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain while addressing the cybersecurity and compliance requirements shaping the future of federal contracting.

Attendees heard directly from experts in breakout sessions on topics such as:

  • Opportunities for New and Growing DoD Contractors – pathways to become suppliers within the nation’s largest manufacturing network.

  • Working with the Defense Logistics Agency / DoD – procurement processes, bid readiness, and contract navigation tools.

  • Information Security Basics for DoD Contractors – foundational cybersecurity measures required for compliance.

  • Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC): An Insider’s View – firsthand perspectives on transitioning to higher levels of cybersecurity certification.

Speakers emphasized how Wisconsin manufacturers can expand their reach through stronger digital security, supply chain resilience, and certification readiness.

“The strength of our regional manufacturing base is built on innovation and collaboration,” said Charlie Walker, President and CEO of CEDC. “This conference is about connecting local capabilities with national defense priorities.”

With increasing federal investment in defense manufacturing, the DMSCC served as a launchpad for building strategic partnerships, aligning workforce training through CVTC, and positioning regional firms to compete in high-value defense markets.

Following the conference, CEDC hosted a Collaborative Showcase for attendees and stakeholders at W.S. Darley & Co. — a local company renowned for its contributions to defense, firefighting, and emergency service operations worldwide.

Guests toured Darley’s advanced manufacturing facility, met with engineers and production teams, and gained insight into the company’s innovative production processes and technology.

Attendees then enjoyed a networking reception with light appetizers and conversations focused on strengthening Wisconsin’s defense supply chain, sharing resources, and fostering collaboration.

“Manufacturing Month is about celebrating the people and innovation that drive our economy,” said Ken Pearson, CVTC Campus Manager and CEDC Board member. “Events like this showcase how collaboration fuels progress—not just for individual companies, but for our entire region.”

As Manufacturing Month continues, these efforts stand as a reminder of what’s possible when innovation meets collaboration — and when Wisconsin manufacturers work together to build a stronger, more connected future.

CEDC and its partners will continue to support local manufacturers through workshops, one-on-one advising, and collaborative training sessions that strengthen cybersecurity compliance, improve supply chain competitiveness, and position Wisconsin as a leader in defense manufacturing.