The alliance for defense technology and innovation headquartered in Middletown received a $195,500 grant to continue connecting job seekers with careers in Rhode Island’s $7.6 billion defense sector.
Real Jobs Rhode Island awarded the grant to SENEDIA to fund its Defense Partnership Program, which offers direct hire opportunities, internships and training in defense-related fields. The state program has supported SENEDIA’s workforce development efforts for a decade.
Since 2016, SENEDIA has facilitated more than 700 hands-on internships, industry-recognized certificates and career support services, leading to more than 350 job placements.
“From cybersecurity to undersea innovation to advanced manufacturing, these are high-wage, high-growth, and rewarding careers,” said Molly Donohue Magee, chief executive officer of SENEDIA. “Real Jobs has been an essential partner in ensuring we have the skilled workforce necessary to seize these opportunities.”
In 2025, the program engaged more than 400 young people at regional career fairs, employed 24 interns with SENEDIA member companies, and placed 52 applicants into jobs. The program also provided employment support for more than 130 candidates, including resume assistance and technical certifications.
Matthew Weldon, director of the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, said defense represents more than 10% of the state’s economy and accounts for $119 billion in economic output across New England.
SENEDIA also operates the New England Submarine Shipbuilding Partnership, which has trained more than 9,300 people in submarine shipbuilding since 2020 with support from the Department of Defense and U.S. Navy.
The organization will host an informational session March 5 for Rhode Island defense companies interested in the workforce development program. Job seekers can find opportunities at SENEDIA.org/defense-careers.