How Arkansas is Supporting Aerospace & Defense Industry Growth in 2020
February 10, 2020The Aerospace & Defense industry is a significant contributor to Arkansas’ economy, employing nearly 10,000 people at 220 operations around the state, with exports totaling $1.8 billion in 2017.
Our team will continue to work with our valued partners in the industry to grow the sector in Arkansas by attending several industry events in 2020, including:
- Farnborough International Airshow
- NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition
- Mid-America Aerospace & Defense Summit
The Farnborough International Airshow is on July 20-24 in Farnborough, England. It is the second-largest trade exhibition for the aerospace and defense industries with over 80,000 visitors from 96 countries.
The NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition is on October 6-8 in Orlando, Florida. Nearly 25,000 industry professionals will attend the trade show, including manufacturing companies.
The Mid-America Aerospace & Defense Summit is on May 5-7 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Companies from surrounding states will discuss our region’s strong presence and growth potential for the industry.
The Aerospace & Defense sector attracts companies that continue to invest and grow operations here. Arkansas is home to key industry players like Lockheed Martin, Dassault Falcon Jet, and Aerojet Rocketdyne, as well as innovative, niche firms, like Galley Support Innovations and Ozark Integrated Circuits.
Along with business success, these companies have found support from our skilled workforce, industry associations, and state government. With growth projected for the industry, Arkansas is well-positioned to secure our foothold in the global market.
To support the industry’s presence in the state, a delegation from Arkansas attended the Paris Air Show in June 2019. Our team engaged industry leaders and promoted Arkansas as a leading destination for Aerospace & Defense companies and their employees. Leading our group was Governor Asa Hutchinson, who is a strong supporter of the Aerospace & Defense industry in Arkansas.
We look forward to another year of growth for the state’s Aerospace & Defense industry. Our team would love to connect with you at one of these events or set up a meeting to discuss growth opportunities for your company in Arkansas.
