Spring has officially arrived, and innovation is in full bloom at MTEC SmartZone. In this month’s newsletter, you’ll find stories of growth and local roots, including a Houghton-based company’s journey through a major acquisition, an expansion at Great Lakes Sound & Vibration (GLSV), a new addition to the MTEC team, and a recap of our local small business leadership conference. Take a look and see how innovation, collaboration, and opportunity are growing across the Keweenaw and beyond.
MTEC SmartZone Client Orbion Space Technology Acquired by York Space Systems
Orbion Space Technology, a longtime MTEC SmartZone client, has been acquired by York Space Systems, marking a major milestone for the Houghton-based satellite propulsion manufacturer.
BRCĒ, MTEC SmartZone AMMP Participant To Appear On Shark Tank
BRCĒ, a 2025 Advanced Materials & Advanced Manufacturing Accelerator Program (AMMP) participant, appeared on Shark Tank on March 4th at 10 PM EST on ABC.
Great Lakes Sound & Vibration Celebrates Major Facility Expansion
Great Lakes Sound & Vibration celebrates an $8.5M, 26,000 sq. ft. expansion in Michigan’s UP, boosting defense manufacturing capacity and creating 32 new jobs.
MTEC SmartZone Announces New Project Manager
MTEC SmartZone is growing its team! Meet Hannah Maat, MTEC’s new Project Manager who’s focused on helping startups grow and ultimately succeed. Learn how her background will support our clients and future innovators.
FREE TRAINING FOR MANUFACTURERS
Manufacturers located in Gogebic, Iron, Houghton, Keweenaw, and Ontonagon counties have a unique opportunity to access cost‑free professional training through support from MTEC. These programs are designed specifically for manufacturing teams looking to improve leadership, operational performance, quality systems, and emerging technologies like AI.
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Only 15 seats available per course
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Maximum of 3 employees per company per course
Seats are expected to fill, so early registration is highly encouraged. To register, please contact Cheryl LeClaire and Josh Billington directly.
Inside our Reimagining Leadership Conference
What does effective leadership look like today, especially in a rural region like the Western U.P.?
Over 55 small business owners, entrepreneurs, and business leaders came together for a day of new perspectives, practical strategies, and real, open conversations. From AI, to strategic communication, to lean processes, the presenter’s insights did more than just inspire, they challenged attendees to rethink how they lead.
GM Mi STEM Grant Announcement
Michigan is expanding access to hands-on STEM learning through a $1.75 million-dollar investment driven by the MiSTEM Network. Among the 17 public schools selected across the state, Chassell Township Schools has been recognized as an awardee. This reflects the young entrepreneurial mindset already developing in students across the Western U.P. Read the full press release to learn more about how these projects are being implemented across the state, and the role MTEC is playing in supporting these effective learning opportunities in our region.
