MSP Builds Relationships on a Global Level
“I did not know how big DSEI was or how secure it was. I’ve never left a trade show where they force you to hide your badge when you leave. And the security… probably easier to get onto a military installation or on a plane than it was to get onto that trade show.” — Johnny Goode, MSP President
Walking into DSEI in London was an experience in itself. For a small Indiana shop, stepping into one of the world’s largest defense expos felt like entering another universe.
It was unlike anything we’d seen before—a reminder of just how vast and interconnected the defense industry is. For Goode, the trip was about being part of that global network and building new relationships in an environment where so many conversations are possible.
Why We Went
The DSEI Show (Defence and Security Equipment International) is one of the largest defense expos in the world, and for a shop like ours—focused on mission-critical components for aerospace, defense, and maritime—it was the right place to be.
But international travel and trade shows like this aren’t cheap. We were able to make the trip thanks in large part to the Indiana STEP Grant, a state program that helps manufacturers expand into international markets. That support covered a big portion of our travel, making it financially doable to explore new relationships outside of the U.S.
According to MSP president, Johnny Goode:
“These trips have really helped us establish a more global footprint. We met with customers, suppliers, and a couple of new customers who are already good. We were getting quotes within a week.”
Who We’re Looking For
We’re not chasing massive OEMs with 100-page RFQs and five layers of red tape. That’s not our speed.
We’re looking for teams that move fast, value accountability, and still believe in real conversations. At DSEI, we found them. Not just as companies, but as people.
Some of the most valuable connections we made weren’t about parts or purchase orders. They were about shared backgrounds and values.
“I met people who’d been in the military, law enforcement, even SWAT—just like I was. We spoke the same language. That never happens in general business networking,” said Goode.
These conversations go deeper than business cards. They’re about shared experience and similar mindsets—the kind of foundation you build a lasting partnership on.
And while some companies parked themselves behind a booth and waited for prospects to come to them, we did the opposite.
London had a transit strike going on, so Goode walked over 20 miles in one day—meeting people in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and even on the sidewalk outside the venue. It wasn’t flashy. But it worked.
Connections and Consistency with a Purpose
We came back from the UK with new connections, stronger partnerships, and the momentum to keep growing MSP the right way: through resilience, reliability, and relationships that make our defense community stronger.
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Explore our Defense Manufacturing Services to see how MSP supports global programs with speed, quality, and trust.
