Turning Emerging Technology Into Capability: ETC 2026 Preview

That challenge is at the center of the 2026 Emerging Technologies for Defense Conference & Exhibition (ETC), taking place September 8–10 in Washington, D.C. In this special episode of Emerging Tech Horizons, NDIA's Jen Walsh, Director of Divisions, and Rachel Sutherland, Director of Public Relations and Communications, provide a preview of what attendees can expect at this year's conference. From senior Department of Defense leadership and combatant commands to industry innovators, engineers, acquisition professionals, and researchers, NDIA ETC brings together the organizations responsible for developing, integrating, funding, and fielding defense technology and next-generation capabilities. The episode also features Dr. Suzette Johnson, Chair of NDIA's Systems Engineering Division, who discusses how mission engineering, systems integration, digital engineering, and agile practices help transform emerging technology into mission-ready solutions that advance national security. This year's event features: Keynote presentations from senior defense leaders, including the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and senior officials from Research & Engineering and Acquisition & Sustainment. A classified program on September 8, bringing together experts to discuss emerging technology and national security challenges in a secure environment. The Global Defense Hackathon, where teams from government, industry, and academia collaborate on real-world defense innovation challenges. A new co-location with the Society of Defense Financial Management's Data Analytics and Decision Support Conference, connecting defense technology development with the acquisition and financial frameworks needed to field capabilities. Conference Registration: https://www.ndiatechexpo.org/registration NDIA: https://www.ndia.org Emerging Tech Horizons Podcast: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5oQnv75FK5aCB0IeYAWVPon0C7Xa75sr&si=bLmHXoFhuLhA5WnM Be sure to follow us on social media for updates, early access to upcoming events, inside scoops, & more: LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4htROo0 Twitter: https://bit.ly/48LHAx3 Facebook: https://bit.ly/47vlht8 And for more podcasts, articles, & publications all things emerging tech, check out our website at: ndiaeti.org #EmergingTechETI #ETC #DefenseInnovation #NationalSecurity #DefenseTechnology