Farris Welsh, Air Force Materiel Command director for Small Business Programs, speaks to attendees during the New Horizons conference Feb. 28 in Newton, Mass. During her presentation, Welsh highlighted the importance of small businesses for the defense community. Air Force Materiel Command was recently presented the Verdure Award as a team that best demonstrates industrial competitiveness and innovative approaches in working with small businesses. (U.S. Air Force photo by Todd Maki)