05/12/2026
Last week MLS attended the 2026 Oak Ridge Procurement Fair sponsored by Oklo, Inc. The event was hosted by the Oak Ridge Chamber of Commerce and facilitated by the Tennessee APEX Accelerator office of East TN.
ORCC board member and Y-12 employee, Gene Patterson, opened the event by introducing the sponsor, Oklo, Inc., where Oklo's mission and vision for the Oak Ridge Valley was shared, followed by APEX representative Jutta Bangs, who spoke about the Tennessee APEX Accelerator at UT CIS and what it offers to businesses.
We heard from Stephen Williams, the director of the Tennessee Small Business Development Centers (TSBDC) and a director at Roane State, who spoke on the assistance TSBDC has for businesses.
MLS, represented by Diana West (owner), Miriam McKim (Business Manager/Contract Administrator), and Michael Yeary (Chief Programs Officer), then met with several prime contractors in who have a presence in the Oak Ridge Valley to discuss additional support opportunities within the DOE and national security mission space. These opportunities would allow MLS to provide experienced and knowledgeable employees in both the professional and security fields to continue the dedicated and excellent service MLS is known for, by utilizing early, mid, and late career employees who are committed to serving our nation.