MGMWERX, the state-of-the-art innovation hub in Alabama’s capital city, recently announced the hiring of Brig. General Trent H. Edwards (USAF, Ret.) as its new director.

Edwards comes to MGMWERX from the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, where he served as senior vice president of Military and Community Development. In addition to his work at the chamber, Edwards also serves as president and CEO of T.H. Edwards Consulting LLC, a consulting firm specializing in networking civilian businesses and professions with the Department of Defense.

The MGMWERX innovation hub, which began operations at its current location in December 2018, supports the U.S. Air Force’s Air University through a Partnership Intermediary Agreement between DEFENSEWERX and the Air Force Research Laboratory to align with the education initiatives of the university.

“I could not be happier to have a professional of Trent’s caliber join this stellar team of dedicated employees,” stated Brian Liesveld, DEFENSEWERX executive director. “Trent’s experience will undoubtedly continue to raise the reputation of MGMWERX to the next level.”

Edwards also brings a wealth of leadership and innovation experience to the team, having served 30 years in the Air Force. Some of his past military assignments include serving as commander of the 42nd Air Base Wing at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery; commander of the 37th Training Wing at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX; Air Force legislative liaison, CFO and programmer for Air Force Space Command; and CFO for the $80 billion Air Force Operations and Maintenance and Military Personnel Account.

When asked what he hopes to achieve as director of MGMWERX, Edwards responded, “Successfully grow, mentor, and develop my team members; establish MGMWERX as a recognized catalyst for innovation and change across local, state, federal and public/private sectors; and have fun!”

In this role, Edwards will oversee administration, programs and strategic plans, in addition to other responsibilities.

“Trent has been a champion and supporter of MGMWERX during his time with the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce,” commented Joyce Vaughn, marketing and events Manager at MGMWERX. “We could not be more excited to have him lead efforts for MGMWERX and join the team.”

Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn