Salt Lake City — Two of Utah’s major industry associations have just announced a merger that will bolster the state’s economy, accelerate the development of advanced technologies and elevate the state’s role in protecting national security. 47G, Utah’s aerospace and defense industry association, and UAMMI, Utah’s Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Institute, are combining forces in a collaborative move that signals a major leap forward for Utah.
Under the consolidation, 47G will continue to convene, promote and advocate for companies critical to national security. In addition to aerospace, defense and cyber security, the organization efforts will now include critical minerals, advanced materials and energy. These areas of focus align with the U.S. Department of Defense’s 14 critical technology areas designed to address challenges facing the United States.
“This collaboration allows us to syndicate resources and bring attention to an industry with a rich history and promising future,” said Aaron Starks, president and CEO of 47G. “We appreciate Governor Cox, the Utah State Legislature and the Utah System of Higher Education for their support and leadership. We are fortunate to work in unison with common goals guiding our efforts.”
Under the terms of the merger, the newly-branded 47G UAMMI Institute (The Institute) will strengthen the organization’s ability to win federal investment for workforce training, industry development and research. They will be tasked with growing a critical minerals consortium in the Intermountain West.
“We celebrate the growth and development of our aerospace and defense industry which contributes to our vibrant workforce and expansion of critical infrastructure,” said Utah Governor Spencer Cox. “This consolidation of resources between two great organizations will enhance 47G’s ability to elevate Utah’s status as a premier hub for industry and destination for innovation, entrepreneurship and investment.”
“The 47G and UAMMI merger is a huge win for Utah and for the country. As a former Air Force pilot and member of Congress who served on the House Intelligence Committee, I have seen firsthand how advanced materials in the aerospace and defense industry enhance our economy and protect our national security,” said Chris Stewart, 47G chair.
Utah has the potential to offer up to 40 of the 50 minerals designated by the U.S. Geological Survey as critical to the economic health and national security of the United States. These minerals are core to advanced materials and manufacturing. Utah has become a global hub for both and will continue to garner national attention as the U.S. diversifies away from China.
“With more than 80% of Utah’s advanced materials industry supporting aerospace and defense manufacturers, UAMMI welcomes the merger with 47G,” said Dr. Tulinda Larsen, president, 47G UAMMI Institute. “The Institute will be uniquely positioned as an award-winning organization to secure critical funding and contracts, catalyze innovative technologies and generate a greater impact for Utah’s thriving aerospace and defense industries.”
The 47G and UAMMI governing boards have approved the merger, which takes effect immediately. The Institute will be housed at 47G headquarters in downtown Salt Lake City, with offices at Weber State’s Miller Applied Resource Solutions building near Hill Air Force Base.
“Working for a full-service engineering and manufacturing company and a small business that produces large composite parts for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, I understand how important this merger is for Utah’s aerospace and defense industry,” said Marshall Hagen, senior manager of strategic programs for Janicki Industries and former UAMMI board chair. “The merger aligns industry resources and connects Utah companies, small and large, to advance our common interests and grow the advanced manufacturing base in this great state. I wholeheartedly support it.”
About 47G47G is the world’s premier ecosystem for aerospace, defense and cyber companies in Utah, with a mission to foster talent, fund entrepreneurship and fuel innovation. The 47G ecosystem comprises over 120 companies and 20 academic institutions working to solve critical national security challenges across three industry sectors. Want to learn more? Visit the website at 47G.org, follow 47G on LinkedIn and X, and subscribe to their YouTube Channel.