About us

The Silicon Heartland Manufacturing Cluster
Nestled at the crossroads of technological progress and rich indigenous history lies the Silicon Heartland Manufacturing Cluster. As a beacon of innovation and growth in the manufacturing realm, this cluster exemplifies a unique fusion of state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques with profound cultural roots.

Silicon Heartland is deeply honored to be majority-owned by Kaw Nation Industries (KNI), the esteemed business arm of the Kaw Nation. This historically disadvantaged Native American tribe, with its origins in the picturesque Kaw City, Oklahoma, brings a powerful narrative of resilience, tradition, and aspiration to the cluster’s ethos.

Historically, the vast territories of the Kaw Nation extended well into parts of Nebraska. The hands of time and policies of the federal government, however, led to their relocation, painting a poignant picture of endurance and adaptability. Today, their legacy of perseverance is mirrored in the determined spirit with which Silicon Heartland drives business and innovation.

Our board, an integral part of our guiding force, is a distinguished ensemble of professionals with extensive expertise in business, industry experience, and defense. Their combined insights ensure that we remain at the forefront of technological advancement while also being rooted in our cultural heritage.

Board Members

Sarah Yanez: As the President of KNI, Sarah’s leadership is both forward-thinking and deeply respectful of the traditions of Kaw Nation.

Ken Bellmard: Serving as the Chairman of the Kaw Nation gaming commission, Ken’s legal expertise and deep understanding of indigenous matters are invaluable to the board.

Trent Overhue: A seasoned real estate developer, Trent also chairs Nantero, a leading U.S. semiconductor company, bringing a unique blend of property and tech expertise to the table.

Daniel Marrujo: Daniel Marrujo is the former Chief Strategy Officer and former Director of the Office of Research and Technology Applications (ORTA) at the Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA). He began his career at Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, AZ., developing missile guidance systems for their advanced programs. He then moved to DMEA, in his hometown of Sacramento, CA., working for the Trusted Integrated Circuit (IC) program office. In conjunction with working on the Trusted IC program, Mr. Marrujo began working towards development of DMEA’s reliability capabilities and was selected to lead the National High Reliability Electronics Virtual Center (HiREV). Daniel also established the NRO’s VS&E program which has executed a number of solutions protecting national security.

Michael Marquardt: Michael Marquardt is an experienced CEO, corporate director, and business advisor with broad experience serving companies throughout Asia, Europe and the United States. The National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) has awarded him its highest credential of Board Leadership Fellow® for eight years in a row and has invited him as a speaker and
author on emerging corporate governance, multicultural management, and global compliance issues at many of its conferences.

Kay Bills: Serves as an advocate for Native American businesses from her experience as an entrepreneur in the 1990’s through the implementation of the “Buy Indian Act” of 2014, and today.

In the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing, the Silicon Heartland Manufacturing Cluster stands out, not just for its state-of-the-art capabilities, but for its soul. A soul derived from the proud lineage of the Kaw Nation and nurtured by a board of industry maestros. As we navigate the future, our journey is inspired by unity, groundbreaking innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.