The cities of Warren and Sterling Heights have announced the launch of a national search for a Defense Industry Economic Development Advisor, a key leadership position that will drive the work of the Arsenal Alliance – a bold regional initiative aimed at transforming Southeast Michigan into a next-generation hub for defense, advanced manufacturing and security innovation.
The Request for Proposals (RFP) will open Monday, Aug. 11 and remain open through Sept. 16, 2025.
“This isn’t just about hiring a Director of Defense Policy, Strategy, and Advocacy– it’s about choosing the right partner to help us build the future,” said Warren Mayor Lori M. Stone. “Through the Arsenal Alliance, we’re leveraging our defense manufacturing legacy to drive innovation, strengthen economic resilience, and secure long-term opportunity for Southeast Michigan.”
The selected advisor will shape, develop, implement and manage a unified strategy to expand the region’s defense footprint, identify federal and private investment opportunities, and convene public-private partners across both cities. The role also includes leading development of a comprehensive Defense Industry Strategic Plan – a first-of-its-kind regional blueprint designed to secure Southeast Michigan’s place at the forefront of national defense readiness and innovation.
“This is what responsible leadership looks like – two cities coming together to address challenges and create real opportunity,” said Sterling Heights Mayor Michael C. Taylor. “The Arsenal Alliance partnership is our way of saying we will leverage our combined strengths, assets and resources to make sure we deliver the results that matter to the people and businesses of our region.”
The Arsenal Alliance Executive Advisory Committee, which includes public officials, private industry leaders, academic institutions and veteran advocates, will guide the selection process.
“By uniting the resources and vision of Sterling Heights and Warren, we are ensuring that our local defense companies, suppliers and skilled workforce remain at the forefront of innovation,” said Mark Pasik, Arsenal Alliance Executive Advisory Committee Member and veteran defense industry leader. “But this partnership is about so much more than economic development. It’s a commitment to protecting American security, growing good-paying jobs, and building the advanced capabilities our warfighters depend on right here in our own community.”
Together, Warren and Sterling Heights represent a $4 billion+ defense corridor home to TACOM, Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) and a dense network of defense contractors, advanced manufacturers and engineering talent.
The Advisor will be tasked with:
- Leading stakeholder engagement across business, government, and military sectors
- Developing a strategic plan aligned with emerging defense priorities
- Identifying and pursuing state, federal, and private investment opportunities
- Amplifying the region’s presence in national policy and procurement conversations
The RFP will be posted on both city’s websites and distributed widely through local, state and national networks. It is also available through BidNet Direct by Sovra procurement platform. Interested parties can visit mitn.info and search for RFP# RFP-SH25-006 to download the full proposal and submission details.