Keynote Remarks Glenn Ayers, Director & ARPA-x Account Manager

Glenn Ayers
Director, Growth & ARPA-x Account Manager

Leidos is an innovation company rapidly addressing the world’s most vexing challenges in national security and health. With over $16.7B in revenue and 47,000 employees, the Leidos team works together to create smarter technology solutions for customers in these critical markets.
The business sector provides unmatched expertise in core capabilities designed to address customer’s most critical missions. These sectors include:

  • Health and Civil
  • National Security
  • Commercial and International 
  • Digital Modernization
  • Defense Systems

The Leidos Innovation Center (LinC) is the R&D arm of the corporation and supports its mission to provide innovative solutions and mission success for its customers. LinC works with cooperative research and development customers including DARPA, ONR, AFRL, DIU, ARPA-I, SCO, and others.  LinC consistently searches for partners among small companies and universities to provide the best solutions for some of the most complex national security challenges.

The fourth annual Federal Technology Symposium (FTS) is hosted by the Office of US Senator Thom Tillis, the Office of US Senator Ted Budd, Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC), and the North Carolina Military Business Center.

When: September 9-10, 2025 

Where: Fayetteville Technical Community College
Tony Rand Student Center, Multi-Purpose Room (building #7)
2201 Hull Road, Fayetteville, NC

Campus Map: Parking is available in parking lots: 4, 6, & 10.  View campus map.  

The FTS will highlight the advanced technology needs of major military commands in North Carolina, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), along with the correlating capabilities of the innovation ecosystem in North Carolina and the Southeast. The Symposium aims to establish dialogue and partnerships between industry, academia, and government to address the future technology needs of America’s warfighters and security agencies. 

Beginning with a pressing tactical scenario and a series of in-depth roundtable discussions, thought leaders with diverse views will explore pressing Defense and Homeland Security needs and how they may be addressed collaboratively through an expansive innovation ecosystem. Discussions will include emerging technologies, collaboration for innovation, the future of warfare and security in the face of mounting threats, and demonstrations of dual-use advanced technologies that may help satisfy rapidly evolving requirements. 

The value for you is a day-to: 

  • Engage with Innovators: Meet and interact with key personnel from government, academia, and industry all in one place, fostering critical collaborations.
  • Discover Solutions: Learn about cutting-edge technologies and strategies to address your organization’s challenges and gaps.
  • Expand Your Network: Strengthen your connections within the North Carolina Innovation Ecosystem, opening doors to future partnerships and opportunities. 
  • Maximize Networking: Benefit from extensive networking opportunities to connect you with influential leaders, peers, and potential collaborators. 

Broaden Perspectives: Gain insights from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and other federal agencies, expanding the scope of your understanding and capabilities

Register