Team & Leadership
Managing the Hub
Dr. Megan Malara brings a strong combination of technical, policy, and innovation ecosystem management experience to the Hub. Her prior roles include leading the Medical Modeling, Materials and Manufacturing Division at The Ohio State University’s Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence (CDME), advising on STEM and healthcare policy as an AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellow in the U.S. Congress, and contributing to national manufacturing organizations such as The Minerals, Metals and Materials Society (TMS) and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME).
Under her direction, the Hub is positioned to deliver significant regional and national outcomes. These include supporting high-quality job creation, strengthening aerospace and defense innovation, and expanding opportunities for students and workers through applied research and STEM-focused programs.
Megan Malara, Ph.D.
Director, Youngstown Innovation Hub
A Youngstown native with deep expertise in advanced manufacturing, federal policy, and applied research leadership.
Core Partners
A Strong Network of Support
The Innovation Hub operates through a coordinated public–private model that aligns regional needs with national aerospace and defense priorities. The Hub is powered by trusted regional and national organizations that contribute program management, education, workforce development, entrepreneurship support, and business growth services.
- The National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM) for program management, national expertise, and contract support.
- America Makes for engaging national membership and government partners to distill demand and support strategic direction for the region.
- YBI for facility management, entrepreneurship support, company growth, and supply chain services for manufacturers.
- Youngstown State University for education and workforce pipeline development to meet industry needs and applied research to develop innovative technologies to serve the aerospace and defense sectors.
- Lake to River and Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber for business attraction, retention, and infrastructure support.
- Ohio Aerospace Institute and APEX Accelerator at Youngstown State University to support businesses pursuing government contracting opportunities.
