Mikulski, Councilmember Watson Tour Maryland Center for Entrepreneurship, Discuss Innovation Jobs with Howard County Entrepreneurs

Press Release

U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.) on Monday was joined by Howard County Council Vice-Chairperson Courtney Watson in touring the Maryland Center for Entrepreneurship and discussing innovation jobs with Howard County entrepreneurs. On their tour, they were briefed by Howard County officials on a number of innovative programs that are creating jobs in Maryland and saw first-hand innovative laboratories that are revolutionizing manufacturing and business growth, and are creating a model blueprint for 21st century jobs.

"In Maryland, innovation and manufacturing jobs are keeping our economy rolling," Senator Mikulski said. "This public-private partnership in Howard County is fostering new entrepreneurs leading the way for new ideas that will lead to new products and new jobs. I will continue to fight for a strong innovation economy supporting jobs today and jobs tomorrow."

"The Howard County Council is proud to support efforts like 3D Maryland and the Conscious Venture Lab," said Councilperson Watson. "It's clear that what we are doing in Howard County can become a model for Maryland. We think these initiatives can be replicated, and help the entire state."

On their tour, Senator Mikulski and Councilwoman Watson visited the 3D Maryland manufacturing initiative and the Conscious Venture Lab, both of which are housed at the Maryland Center for Entrepreneurship. The Conscious Venture Lab is working with its first group of entrepreneurs launching companies that will embrace the power of capitalism as a force for good in society. The 24-week mentor and curriculum driven program is providing entrepreneurs a foundation in building companies with purpose, while also focusing on the tools and skills needed to build highly executable business models and high-performance cultures.

At the new Innovation and Prototype Lab of the 3D Maryland manufacturing facility, they met with facility executive director Jan Baum and several Maryland businesses who were using the emerging technology to stay competitive and become leaders in their field. The lab opened in April, and is driving innovation, increasing access to digital manufacturing and reducing production costs for prototypes.

"Because of the bold support we have received from County leadership, we are setting a new direction for economic development in Howard County," said Lawrence F. Twele, CEO of the Howard County Economic Development Authority. "These programs are providing the 'secret sauce' that will lead to the jobs of the future."

"Howard County is taking advantage of our workforce, our location and our technological leadership to stay on the cutting edge of the economy," said Howard County Executive Ken Ulman. "I thank Senator Mikulski for her strong leadership and partnership that helps efforts like this thrive."

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