This series profiles entrepreneurs and leaders in business, design, technology, manufacturing, and more, in the Sterling Heights Innovation District. With the support of the City of Sterling Heights, we capture the stories of what it means to be an innovator in today's climate, the challenges and triumphs involved, and what the future looks like.
Marjie Jenkins coordinates a robotics education program, and sees the nonprofit as a way to remove some of the disparity between “the haves and have nots" in her county. With a focus on reducing STEM stigma and increasing gender parity in the field, she hopes to leave a legacy.
Some of the technology coming out of Rave Computer sounds like it belongs on futuristic film sets rather than in real life. For the auto, defense, and public sectors using the tech, however, its purpose is very tangible. The small company is proving you don't have to be a Silicon Valley giant to make a dint in the innovation world.
In the last 10 years, April Boyle has founded Detroit's Build Institute, established restaurants, raised a family, and even opened for the B-52s in an all-mom rock group. Now, she's set her sights on igniting the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Macomb County. It's easy to see why we should all be watching what she does next.
John Johnson has been working with the defense contractor in Michigan for more than 20 years. Now, he's overseeing DCS Corporation's new center in Sterling Heights and is excited about the innovation happening in the region.
Mike Brzoska and Kay Becker aren't afraid to argue with each other. The siblings are taking their father's company, Chardem Gear, to new heights but will be the first to admit they keep each other in check.
Ever heard of "lightweighting"? It's a big deal in an automotive industry shifting toward electric vehicles. We talk to a 3D printing company making vehicles lighter about their new facility in Sterling Heights and why they are betting on both the technology and the region.
How can cities better support innovative businesses? We take a closer look at how Sterling Heights is beating out even Silicon Valley in attracting start-ups and changemakers in the tech world.
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