Mike Brown Dinner

Reindustrialization, AI and National Security

Had the honor of hosting Michael A. Brown for an Icons dinner to talk defense, AI, and America’s path back to industrial strength.

I first met Mike almost two years ago as his TA at Stanford University and I'm always impressed by how humble and thoughtful he is, given he's one of most important people across defense and national security in the country.

As the former CEO of Symantec and Director of the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) Innovation Unit, Mike reported directly to the Secretary of Defense. He brought commercial speed and Silicon Valley ingenuity into the Pentagon, opening the doors to startups and building the bridge between tech and defense.

⚡ One thing he said stuck with me:
Reindustrialization and technological dominance are no longer just an economic agenda — they’re a national security imperative. From semiconductors to shipyards, the U.S. needs resilient supply chains and a deeper bench of dual-use innovation if we’re going to stay ahead.

Grateful for his leadership, mentorship, and vision. The mission is clear.