Alabama Launches New Aerospace & Defense Powerhouse!

Get ready for liftoff, ChumCity! Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth just announced the creation of the Alabama Aerospace and Defense Council (AADC), a brand-new force dedicated to boosting our state's already stellar aerospace and defense sectors. Think of it as a super-team working to make Alabama the ultimate launchpad for innovation and economic growth.

What's the AADC's Mission?

Simple: to make Alabama's aerospace and defense industry even bigger and better. They'll be championing pro-industry legislation and connecting key players to keep Alabama at the forefront of innovation. Basically, they want to ensure the sky's the limit for this vital part of our economy.

Their Action Plan:

The AADC has four key priorities to keep Alabama soaring:

• Spread the Word: Highlighting the huge economic benefits this industry brings to our state.
• Policy Power: Fighting for policies that support growth and long-term success.
• Connect the Dots: Providing a platform for industry leaders to collaborate with state officials.
• Build Community: Fostering connections between aerospace companies and decision-makers.

A Statewide Boost

“Alabama is the aerospace and defense capital of the world," Ainsworth declared, emphasizing the need to ensure every county benefits from the jobs and investments these industries bring.

Heavy Hitters On Board

The AADC boasts a steering committee packed with leaders from giants like Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Airbus, Raytheon Technologies, and United Launch Alliance. They'll be working closely with state and national stakeholders to keep Alabama's aerospace and defense sector thriving.

Calling All Future Rocketeers!

"We need to grow up the next generation of people to work these jobs in Alabama," said Joe Rice from Lockheed Martin. The message is clear: Alabama's aerospace future needs YOU!

To the Moon... and Beyond!

Ainsworth highlighted Alabama's crucial role in the Artemis program, which will return humans to the moon. He also pointed to Mobile's rise as a major aerospace manufacturing hub. “We can do more,” he stated, suggesting even bigger things are on the horizon for Alabama’s aerospace industry.