Embedded Entrepreneur: Defense Commercializat in Frederick, Maryland at Inventwood

The Opportunity

InventWood makes SUPERWOOD, ordinary wood re-engineered at the molecular level into a structural material with strength-to-weight performance higher than steel that still machines and fastens like wood. The technology came out of the University of Maryland, has been de-risked over nearly a decade of R&D, and is in production today at our 89,000-square-foot facility in Frederick, Maryland.

Through sustained engagement with defense engineers, logistics stakeholders, and system integrators, InventWood has identified growing demand for SUPERWOOD across defense applications. Under DARPA’s Embedded Entrepreneur Initiative (EEI), InventWood has been awarded funding for a dedicated Embedded Entrepreneur to lead defense commercialization of the SUPERWOOD platform, converting that demand into defined applications, pilot efforts, and procurement pathways.

What You Will Do

• Convert existing defense interest into prioritized applications and committed partner engagements
• Define value propositions and product configurations with our technical and engineering leadership
• Drive validation and demonstration activities built for transition and procurement readiness
• Develop and execute the commercialization and financing strategy for defense and dual-use markets
• Work directly with DARPA’s Commercial Strategy team against defined milestones

What You Bring

• 10+ years of professional experience in defense, advanced technology, or commercialization roles
• Experience working with or within defense organizations, prime contractors, or system integrators
• Working familiarity with defense acquisition and transition mechanisms, including CSOs, OTAs, and related procurement pathways
• A track record of carrying disruptive technologies through validation and deployment
• Ability to manage complex stakeholder environments spanning technical, operational, and acquisition functions
• Strong capability to define product requirements and align them with manufacturable configurations

Helpful, Not Required

An advanced degree in engineering or business; a background in advanced materials; an active network across defense primes and program offices; experience in a venture-backed or dual-use hardware company

Structure and Selection

The role is funded under a 12-month DARPA EEI award, with defined milestones and deliverables, and requires full dedication to the effort. Employment structure, direct hire or contract, will be determined with the selected candidate. Compensation and any continuation beyond the award period will be discussed during the process. U.S. work authorization is required; additional eligibility requirements may apply.