An upcoming summit in El Segundo is set to bring together the brightest minds in venture capital and frontier technology. Scheduled for June 18, 2026, at The Aerospace Corporation Campus, the event aims to facilitate high-level discussions between leading investors and entrepreneurs. The gathering focuses on the evolving landscape of technology and capital, providing a platform for those driving innovation in critical sectors.

A primary focus of the evening will be the rapid evolution of defense technology. Ethan Thornton, the founder of Mach Industries, is slated to lead a session titled “Built for a New Era of Defense Technology.” Thornton will explore the complexities of scaling hard tech companies and the structural shifts occurring within the defense industry, particularly as national security becomes increasingly intertwined with autonomy and advanced manufacturing.

The summit will also delve into the burgeoning field of physical AI. Delian Asparouhov of Founders Fund and Saif Khawaja of Shinkei Systems are scheduled to discuss the integration of AI, robotics, and automation into the physical world. Their conversation will address the challenges and opportunities involved in transitioning breakthrough technologies from theoretical concepts to large-scale, real-world applications.

Beyond the formal presentations, the event is designed to foster deep connections among executives, founders, and investors. By creating an environment of proximity and focus, the summit seeks to turn high-level insights into tangible opportunities for the next generation of industry leaders.