Whitmer Travels to Italy Seeking Defense Investments

Governor's European Investment Mission Aims to Strengthen Partnerships and Attract New Jobs

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is traveling to Italy as part of her ongoing 'European investment mission' to strengthen international partnerships and attract new investment in defense, manufacturing and national security industries. The trip follows a recent stop in Germany, where Whitmer shared the state's Defense and Aerospace Strategic Plan to grow Michigan's defense and aerospace sectors.

Why it matters

Whitmer's investment mission to Europe is part of her efforts to position Michigan as a leader in defense, aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries. By forging new international partnerships and attracting foreign investment, the governor aims to create jobs and drive long-term economic growth in the state.

The details

In Italy, Whitmer plans to meet with business, government and industry leaders to highlight Michigan's advantages in defense, aerospace, advanced manufacturing and mobility industries. The goal is job creation and long-term economic growth. Whitmer is joined on the investment mission by senior officials from the Michigan National Guard, Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

  • Whitmer visited Switzerland in January 2026.
  • Whitmer visited Germany on Friday, February 14, 2026.
  • Whitmer is traveling to Italy in February 2026.

The players

Gretchen Whitmer

The governor of Michigan who is leading the European investment mission.

Paul Rogers

The adjutant general of the Michigan National Guard and director of the state Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, who is accompanying Whitmer on the trip.

John Gutierrez

The U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.) executive director of the Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, who is also accompanying Whitmer.

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What they’re saying

“Italy is a key partner for Michigan as we work to strengthen advanced manufacturing, defense capabilities and innovation-driven growth. By continuing our investment mission in Italy, we're opening doors for new partnerships, expanding opportunities for Michiganders and positioning our state to compete and lead in a rapidly evolving global economy.”

— Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan (Press Release)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Whitmer's European investment mission underscores Michigan's strategic focus on growing its defense, aerospace and advanced manufacturing industries through international partnerships and foreign direct investment. By positioning the state as a global leader in these critical sectors, the governor aims to create new jobs and drive long-term economic growth for Michiganders.