David Koch, Defense Logistics Agency’s Research and Development director, led the Joint Defense Manufacturing Technology Panel Spring All Hands at AIM Photonics in Albany, New York May 21-23. Participants provided updates on their ManTech programs and reviewed progress across JDMTP’s fiscal 2024 goals. Highlights included tours of NY CREATES NanoTech Complex where the AIM Photonics (Integrated Photonics) Manufacturing Innovation Institute is hosted, and the U.S. Army Watervliet Arsenal, where several Army ManTech projects contribute to its unique capabilities.

“The tours are an important part of the JDMTP All Hands events, as they provide an opportunity to showcase ongoing Manufacturing Technology Research,” Koch said. “AIM Photonics’ state-of-the-art facility is helping to reignite the United States’ leadership in microcircuits, while Watervliet Arsenal and Benet Labs (co-located on Watervliet) provide the unique opportunity for new technologies to transition immediately into production at the arsenal.”

In January 2024, Koch became the first DLA principal to chair the JDMTP as part of a three-year rotation. The JDMTP consists of directors and senior leaders who serve as principals, representing each DOD Manufacturing Technology program from the Army, Navy, Air Force, DLA and the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

Koch aims to increase the JDMTP’s engagement with the ManTech community and the nine manufacturing innovation institutes established by the Defense Department. As the nation’s needs continue to evolve, the JDMTP will pursue joint opportunities to accelerate the adoption of critical defense technologies, support supply chain resilience and empower tomorrow’s skilled workforce.

The JDMTP was established in 1994 to ensure coordination and collaboration across the Defense Department’s vast ManTech ecosystem. The panel is chartered to identify and integrate joint requirements, conduct joint program planning and develop cohesive ManTech strategies. The JDMTP also hosts the annual Defense Manufacturing Conference that brings together public and private leaders, manufacturers and academic partners from the defense industrial base. DMC 2024 will convene Dec. 2-5 in Austin, Texas, with a focus on “Accelerating America’s Manufacturing Advantage to Win the Great Power Competition.”

Visit the JDMTP website to learn more.