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ABOUT

This curated event between government and industry is designed to go beyond information sharing and create meaningful engagement, relationship-building, and actionable pathways. 


Innovators in robotics, AI, and autonomy will have the chance to hear from and connect with Air Force stakeholders through a panel discussion, informal networking session, and a no-host social to help spark collaborations that can accelerate technology transition and address Department of the Air Force mission needs.

SCHEDULE

2:00 PM – Check-In

Attendees arrive, check in at the registration table, and have time to network informally before the program begins.

2:30 PM – Panel Discussion + Q&A

A moderated discussion featuring Air Force and DoW stakeholders, followed by an open Q&A session where attendees can ask questions in real time.

4:00 PM – No-Host Social & Informal Networking Session

A gathering at a nearby venue, the Federal Gallery. Attendees are welcome to continue conversations, make new connections, and engage with speakers and participants in a relaxed setting.

PANELISTS

Scott Aughenbaugh -  Department of the Air Force (DAF) Technology Transfer & Transition (T3) Director

Shanel Fultz - Deputy Director, AFRL Small Business (SB)

Allen Franke - Program Manager, AFWERX (AFRL/RG)

Col. Jason Figley - Maintenance Group Commander, 171st Air Refueling Wing (PA Air National Guard)

KEY TAKEAWAYS

HELPFUL DETAILS

Date: January 29, 2026

Time: 2:00 - 6:00 PM

Location: Pittsburgh Technology Council, Nova Place, 100 S Commons #172, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Dress Code: Business Casual recommended

No host social: 4:00 - 6:00 PM at Federal Galley, 200 Children's Way, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Parking: Enter Gate 3 on S. Commons to the parking level. We recommend using the Plaza Elevator located near rows 9 Central - 12 Central (pillar numbers can help you identify the area). This elevator will take you directly to the Plaza (P) level. Upon exiting, the PTC office will be to your left.



FAQs

Is there a cost to attend?

No. This event is completely free to all registered attendees.


What should I bring with me?

Small businesses are encouraged to bring a capability statement and similar materials to facilitate discussions and follow-up with government attendees.


Is parking available?

Yes. Parking is available, and detailed instructions are provided above regarding location and access.


How do I check in when I arrive?

A registration table will be located at the entrance of the PTC. Please check in there when you arrive.


Is there a dress code?

Business casual attire is recommended.


Can I attend virtually?

Yes. A virtual option will be available for the Panel and Q&A sessions. You can register here: https://events.gov.teams.microsoft.us/event/8b89b13f-950c-4b18-8f33-a28eaf59e4a7@5ead055a-c013-429e-9126-99026f9056d9


Who do I contact with questions?

For any questions, please contact Brendan Thoreson at brendan.thoreson@parallaxresearch.org.


Will there be opportunities to engage directly with DoW representatives?

Yes. Opportunities for direct engagement include the informal networking session and the no host social.

About APEX


The Academic Partnership Engagement Experiment (APEX) cultivates innovation by expanding the American research enterprise in a way that moves defense technology from discovery to reality. APEX connects academic innovators with the Department of the Air Force and industry and eliminates barriers in accelerating the transition of science and technology solutions into transformational U.S. Air Force operational capabilities. APEX is a Partnership Intermediary Agreement between the Department of the Air Force. The APEX mission supports the United States Air Force Science & Technology 2030 Strategy. 

About PTC


The Pittsburgh Technology Council's Defense Robotics and Innovation Coalition connects robotics, autonomy, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other related companies to business opportunities with the U.S. Department of War.



APEX intends to record portions of this event, including through the virtual platform. By registering for and attending the EDGE Defense Summit, you acknowledge and agree that you may be audio- and video-recorded during the event.


You further acknowledge and agree that your name, image, voice, and likeness may be used by APEX for purposes including, but not limited to, marketing and communications materials (digital, social media, and email), advertisements, published articles (online or in print), educational content, and presentations at conferences or other informational or promotional events.


If you do not wish to be recorded or have your name, image, voice, or likeness used for these purposes, please do not register for or attend this event.

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APEX is an effort sponsored in whole or in part by the Air Force Research Laboratory, USAF, under Memorandum of Understanding/Partnership Intermediary Agreement No FA8650-19-3-9341. The U.S. Government is authorized to reproduce and distribute reprints for Governmental purposes, notwithstanding any copyright notation thereon.