Press Releases

STUART, FL (February 17, 2010) - Acknowledging rapid changes in the aviation/aerospace sector, the Business Development Board of Martin County facilitated a meeting with sector leaders, Martin County companies, and Congressman Thomas J. Rooney of Florida's 16th District, the only district-wide effort to convene these leaders. Attendees at Tuesday evening's event included representatives from Boeing; Piper Aircraft; Pratt & Whitney; and Sikorsky, as well as ACAS, Inc.; Advanced Technology; Level 3 Inspection; Padden Engineering; STS Aviation Group; TurboCombustor Technology, Inc.; UCT Coatings; and Vought Aircraft Industries, Inc.

According to 2008 data from the Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation, the aviation/aerospace sector accounted for approximately 600 employees in Martin County and $32.5M in wages, with an average wage of $60,000 per employee. "Martin County companies are strong contributors to this technology sector on a global scale," said Ron Bunch, Executive Director of the Business Development Board of Martin County. "This event presented an opportunity for our CEOs to shape the future of the industry and to make valuable business connections that will broaden their scope of business to drive continued expansion."

Bunch continued, "From his first days in office, Congressman Rooney has been proactive in his support of our economic development efforts. His participation in this event is just another tangible example of his commitment to job expansion in Martin County and in his entire district." Congressman Rooney addressed the group saying "I am willing to do whatever it takes to keep this sector in the lead and move it forward. Job creation is priority one." Rooney listened carefully as business leaders expressed challenges that might be resolved with support from his office.

Of notable concern with many present was the discontinuation of NASA's shuttle program. Rooney assured the group that he sees this as a national security issue and, as such, he is encouraging bipartisan efforts for NASA support in Congress. Such support is critical for solidifying the future of aviation/aerospace in Florida.

The CEOs brainstormed ways to expand job creation within the sector, and build a talent pipeline through workforce development and education programs; toured both TurboCombustor Technology, Inc. and Vought Aircraft Industries, Inc.; and explored potential business synergy.

"For the first time aerospace OEMs and suppliers in Florida have come together to work towards a common goal. There was instant networking and people found out what capabilities were available in their own backyards." said Yancy Riddle, Chief Technology Officer of UCT Coatings. "Congressman Rooney has visited all of us individually, but bringing it all together so he could see our collective economic horsepower and seeing us as a focused aerospace unit was important."

About the BDBMC
The Business Development Board of Martin County is the county's official economic development organization, and Enterprise Florida, Inc. partner. More information about the organization can be found by visiting www.bdbmc.org.

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