MSET, ADAM and USM Announce 2025 Mississippi Aerospace and Defense Symposium
Tue, 03/04/2025 - 02:25pm | By: MSET Staff

The Mississippi Enterprise for Technology (MSET), in partnership with the Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi (ADAM) and The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), proudly announces the 2025 Mississippi Aerospace and Defense Symposium (MADS) to be held October 22-24 at the Golden Nugget Casino in Biloxi, Miss.
Building on the success of last year’s symposium, which convened nearly 400 industry, government and academic leaders at the University of Mississippi, the 2025 MADS will continue to elevate Mississippi’s position as a hub for aerospace, defense and advanced technology industries. The event will serve as a platform for industry leaders, government officials, and researchers to exchange ideas, foster collaboration, and drive innovation within these critical sectors.
“As Mississippi’s leader in aerospace and defense industry engagement, MSET is excited to build upon the momentum of our previous symposiums and expand opportunities for industry growth,” said Davis Pace, president and CEO of MSET. “This year’s event will highlight the state’s unique capabilities, showcase new technological advancements and strengthen partnerships that will position Mississippi for continued success in these sectors.”
The 2025 MADS agenda will feature:
- Keynote addresses from senior industry executives, military leaders and government officials
- Panel discussions on aerospace manufacturing, defense modernization, space commercialization and workforce development
- Technical exchanges with Mississippi’s federal installations
- Site visits offering exclusive insights to key industry and research facilities
- Industry and university showcases highlighting research, innovation and emerging technologies
- Networking opportunities to connect companies, policymakers and academia
“The University of Southern Mississippi is proud to drive research and innovation that supports the aerospace and defense sectors,” said Dr. Kelly Lucas, USM vice president for research. “The 2025 Mississippi Aerospace and Defense Symposium will showcase Mississippi’s technological advancements while strengthening partnerships across industry, government, and academia to advance the state’s leadership in these critical fields.”
With Mississippi home to some of the nation’s most advanced aerospace testing, military training, and manufacturing capabilities, MADS 2025 will serve as a platform to promote economic growth and investment while ensuring the state remains at the forefront of national defense and space innovation.
“MADS is where the aerospace and defense community comes together to share insights, make meaningful connections, and advance the industry,” said Sara Doss, executive director of ADAM. “Industry members recognize the value of this symposium not just as a conference, but as a strategic convening point where they can collaborate on real solutions, explore new business opportunities and strengthen Mississippi’s reputation as a leader in aerospace and defense.”
Click here for more information and sponsorship opportunities or contact Brittany Morse.
About MSET
The Mississippi Enterprise for Technology (MSET) is a public-private partnership dedicated to fostering economic growth in the aerospace, defense, and technology sectors. With strong connections to Mississippi’s federal installations, research universities, and industry leaders, MSET serves as a catalyst for business development and innovation in the state.
About ADAM
The Aerospace and Defense Alliance of Mississippi (ADAM) is an industry trade association that serves as the convening entity for Mississippi's aerospace, aeronautics, and defense industries. ADAM fosters industry collaboration and strategic planning, providing advocacy, and supports marketing and promotional efforts for the state's aerospace and defense assets.