Why Microelectronics Fail in Space—and What Ken LaBel Did About It

In this episode of Micro Journeys, host Daniel Marrujo sits down with Ken LaBel, one of the most respected figures in the world of radiation effects for space and defense electronics. With a decades-long career that spans NASA, missile defense, and strategic radiation-hardened electronics, Ken shares the moments that defined his professional path—from helping prove […]

Rewriting the Rules: Jack Kang on RISC-V, SiFive, and the Future of Microelectronics

In this episode of Micro Journeys, host Daniel Marrujo sits down with Jack Kang, SVP of Business Development, Customer Experience, and Corporate Marketing at SiFive, to explore the fascinating trajectory of his career—from building CPUs at Marvell to helping lead the charge on RISC-V technology at SiFive. Jack shares how his early education and hands-on […]

The Future Of Warfare Depends on Digital Twins with Schoeller Porter

In this episode of Micro Journeys, Daniel Marrujo sits down with Schoeller Porter, President of Nimbus Services, to explore how his unconventional journey from aerospace engineering to big data, emulation, and defense infrastructure is reshaping the future of microelectronics. With a deep-rooted curiosity in technology and an early passion for problem-solving, Schoeller discusses how foundational […]

From the Lab to the Warfighter: Dr. Matt Casto on Securing America’s Microelectronics

In this episode of Micro Journeys, host Daniel Marrujo sits down with Dr. Matt Casto, Chief Technology Officer at the Midwest Microelectronics Consortium (MMEC), to trace his remarkable journey through defense innovation, trusted electronics, and semiconductor leadership. From his early aspirations of becoming an astronaut to building resilient, mission-critical systems for the U.S. Air Force […]

How Microelectronics Commons is Fast-Tracking U.S. Innovation with Stephanie Lin

In this episode of Micro Journeys, host Daniel Marrujo sits down with Stephanie Lin, Vice President of Microelectronics Commons at NSTXL, to explore her path from programming microcontrollers in high school to leading one of the U.S. Department of Defense’s most dynamic technology transition platforms. Stephanie reflects on the choices that shaped her career, her […]

Fighting Evil with Intel: Jerry Reimers on the Power of Identity Intelligence

Jerry Reimers’ career journey spans from an unexpected pivot away from medicine to becoming a pivotal figure in U.S. military law, intelligence, and national security policy. In this episode of Micro Journeys, Jerry recounts how a scheduling mishap led him to political science and eventually into law, which became the launchpad for his time in […]

From Fighter Jets to Quantum Code: The Journey of Pete “Shadow” Ford

From flying F-15s and dodging shadows over Egypt to pioneering post-quantum encryption, Pete “Shadow” Ford’s career is a masterclass in adaptability, critical thinking, and the power of asking the right questions. In this episode of Micro Journeys, host Daniel Marrujo sits down with Ford to explore the intersections of high-performance aviation, national defense, and cutting-edge […]

From the Marines to Microelectronics: A Journey in Defense Innovation with Brandon Smith

Brandon Smith joins host Daniel Marrujo on Micro Journeys to discuss his journey and remarkable career from military service to microelectronics and defense consulting. Brandon reflects on his time in the Marines, where he specialized in electronics and radar repair, gaining hands-on experience with high-stakes technology in combat environments. His military service instilled a deep […]

Micro Journeys: Trailer

Welcome to Micro Journeys: The pulse of what’s next and the stories of the people who got us here. podcast that puts you on the front lines of U.S. defense innovation—one remarkable story at a time. Hosted by Daniel Marrujo of Trusted Strategic Solutions, this weekly series delivers a behind-the-scenes look at the trailblazers who’ve […]