STARCOM hosts leadership summit to strengthen collaboration across Space Force

 

September 30, 2025

 

The Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM) hosted a leadership summit, bringing together 80 leaders from across the country to discuss training, readiness and the evolving priorities of the U.S. Space Force, at Central Florida Tech Grove, Sept. 24.

 

The summit provided a forum for participants to share perspectives, exchange best practices and coordinate efforts across the command’s missions. Leaders evaluated current programs and identified opportunities to strengthen collaboration across the Space Force and its partners.

 

STARCOM is one of three field commands within the Space Force, with responsibilities spanning education, training, doctrine and test operations. Its mission is to prepare personnel for space operations while ensuring alignment between training initiatives and broader national defense objectives.

 

To support this mission, the command manages programs that guide the development and testing of operational concepts, as well as initiatives that define how personnel are trained and equipped for future missions.

 

Senior STARCOM leaders, including Commander Maj. Gen. James E. Smith and Vice Commander Brig. Gen. Matthew S. Cantore, attended the summit. Sessions focused on strengthening collaboration across the military, industry and academic partners, while reviewing STARCOM’s future direction and the command’s ongoing initiatives.

 

Discussions during the summit addressed the development of new training programs, expansion of testing capabilities and long-term planning for space operations. Participants considered how current initiatives could adapt to technological advancements and evolving operational requirements.

 

The event aimed to ensure that programs and policies remain responsive to the needs of the service while supporting the broader objectives of national defense.

 

Central Florida Tech Grove, a hub for defense innovation in Orlando’s Research Park, played a key role in supporting the summit. The facility fosters collaboration among Department of Defense organizations, private industry and universities, with a focus on modeling, simulation and training technologies.

 

By hosting the event at Tech Grove, participants were able to connect with the facility’s resources and professional networks, gaining exposure to tools, technologies and collaborative opportunities that advance STARCOM’s mission.