Serving the United States does not have to be in uniform. Mike Seper, University Program Director of the National Security Innovation Network at Washington University in St. Louis, discusses how the problem-solving network NSIN embraces university-based innovators and entrepreneurs from all areas of study to bring their expertise into the service of our country. 

In this episode, Mike reflects on the importance of an inclusive and diverse innovation process while providing a glimpse into programs available to students and university members. He highlights select focus areas—energy needs, artificial intelligence, and drone technology—and exciting partnerships with HBCUs focusing on geospatial technologies. Mike shares how NSIN and student contributions can lead to future employment and foster a generation of problem solvers. 

• (3:53) – National Security Innovation Network
• (6:23) – Defense Innovation Unit
• (8:07) – Current focus areas
• (11:23) – Soldier readiness with the Missouri Army National Guard
• (14:11) – Understanding the importance of the mission
• (18:15) – Emerge Accelerator and engaging university research
• (21:28) – Diversity and inclusion in the innovation process
• (24:41) – Students serving their country
• (26:20) – Innovation Entrepreneurship Center at Washington University in St. Louis
• (27:29) – How to get started
• (32:46) – Participation

Mike Seper is an entrepreneur and the University Program Director of the National Security Innovation Network at Washington University in St. Louis. He is a contributor for Entrepreneur Media and former site director of National Science Foundation I-Corps and lead instructor at Washington University. Mike earned a bachelor’s degree in entrepreneurial studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and an MBA at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

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Podcast episode production by Dante32.