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GRAND OPENING

On March 26, 2025, the grand opening of TechGrid was celebrated in Ridgecrest, California—marking a significant milestone in regional innovation and collaboration. Established through a joint effort between the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD), Cerro Coso Community College (CCCC), Griffiss Institute, B3K Prosperity, and additional partners, TechGrid serves as a forward-leaning  innovation space designed to accelerate the development and integration of emerging technologies.

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Operating under the High Desert Tech Bridge and as part of the national NavalX Tech Bridge network, TechGrid fosters strategic collaboration between government, industry, and academia. The space is positioned to support warfighter readiness, spur economic development, and strengthen ties across sectors within the region.

 

A Vision Realized Through Partnership

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TechGrid was created to break down traditional barriers and provide a flexible, forward-thinking environment where teams can brainstorm, prototype, and test new ideas. The space supports NAWCWD’s mission areas, with a particular focus on:

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  • Weapon Systems Development Transformation

  • Integrated Spectrum Warfare

  • Air Wing of the Future Integration & Interoperability

  • Advanced Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) Capabilities

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The location—outside the fence line but in close proximity to Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake—makes it easier for external collaborators to work with the Navy in a secure yet accessible setting. Teams from across sectors can now utilize TechGrid for everything from training and ideation to equipment testing and industry meetings.

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Event Highlights

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The grand opening brought together more than 75 registered guests, including representatives from government, defense, education, startups, and community organizations. The program featured tours of the new facility, live demonstrations, and a series of impactful presentations from:

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  • Tammy Schiller – NAWCWD External Partnerships Program Manager

  • Andy Corzine, Will Heermann, and Dan Carreno – NAWCWD Leadership

  • Sean Hancock – President, Cerro Coso Community College

  • Matt Mroz – Griffiss Institute

  • Georgia Petropoulos – B3K Prosperity

  • Megan Wilson, Kristine Fernandez, Bryan & Erick Went – TechGrid Team

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Attendees also had the opportunity to network, explore potential collaboration, and gain insights into upcoming initiatives planned for the space.

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Special Thanks

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We want to extend a heartfelt thanks to Future Labs, Jeff French and the WSL team for their hard work and dedication in bringing TechGrid to life. A special thank you to Dylan Riley for his vision and work behind the scenes, and to Andy Corzine for his leadership and unwavering belief in the power of intentional partnerships. 

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What’s Next for TechGrid?

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The grand opening is just the beginning. TechGrid will operate on a part-time basis and by reservation, serving as a launchpad for future-focused initiatives, including:

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  • Innovation accelerator programs

  • STEM engagement and outreach with local schools and communities

  • Small business support and SBIR/STTR collaboration

  • Advanced research and development efforts in partnership with DoD labs

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We’re already planning new ways to grow the space, expand our equipment, and continue building momentum.

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