The Sentinel Defense Forum at SMU: The Business of Aerospace, Defense & National Security
Tuesday, April 21, 2026 (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM) (CDT)
Description
The Sentinel Defense Forum at Southern Methodist University brings together leaders from aerospace, defense, national security, finance, and academia for a focused conversation on where the industry stands today, and where it’s headed next. Hosted by the SMU Cox School of Business with the Lyle School of Engineering, the forum highlights both established industry players and emerging defense technology companies.
Held at the Collins Executive Education Center on campus, the event features two panel discussions. One exploring the current state of aerospace and defense and the shift toward defense tech, and another focused on success stories and how to build strong companies in this space.
The forum concludes with a reception, offering attendees the chance to connect with speakers and fellow professionals.
When: April 21st, 2026
Registration and Networking: 5:00-5:30 PM, Program: 5:30-7:00 PM, Reception: 7:00-8:00 PM
Location: SMU Cox Collins Executive Educations Center,
3150 Binkley Avenue, Dallas, TX, 75205
Registration is free, but required!
You can register by clicking here!
Event Timeline:
Registration & Networking
Panel Discussion 1:
Moderator - Edward Crawford, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Coltata Holdings Panelists –
- Tim Booher - Sr. Vice President Leidos
- Nader Jalili – Dean, SMU Lyle School of Engineering
- Ryan Morfin - Founder and MD of Iron Gate Capital
- Matt Muns - CEO & Chairman |Redhawk Federal
Panel Discussion 2:
Moderator - Edward Crawford, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Coltata Holdings Panelists –
- Bryan Perkins - Founder CEO of Novaria Group
- Suresh Narayanan - Founder CEO of Jets MRO (SMU Cox MBA )
- Will Edwards - Founder and CEO Firehawk Aerospace
Reception
3150 Binkley Ave
Dallas, 75205 United States