The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry joined Lt. Gov. Austin Davis, chair of the Aerospace States Association, and the Keystone Space Collaborative to host the state’s third annual Aerospace and Aviation Day at the capital.
The event brought together students, industry leaders, policymakers, educators and innovators to highlight the state’s position on aerospace and aviation while advancing discussions about the investments and reforms needed to accelerate the industry’s growth in the state.
“Pennsylvania’s aerospace and aviation story is one of momentum—powered by the talent coming out of our world-class universities, driven by innovation from companies investing here, and strengthened by policy reforms that are delivering real results,” PA Chamber President and CEO Luke Bernstein said. “From cutting-edge technologies to record-setting infrastructure and industry investment, the Commonwealth is proving it can compete and lead on a global stage. Aerospace and Aviation Day is about celebrating that progress and continuing the work to ensure Pennsylvania remains a top destination for the businesses creating the jobs of tomorrow.”
The day featured presentations from industry professionals about career opportunities in aerospace and aviation, including representatives from Aerium, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the aerospace talent pipeline, and Horizon Aerobotics, a Texas-based aerial intelligence company; the Civil Air Patrol; Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, and former and current NASA astronauts.
The day also featured an Aerospace Caucus policy hearing where legislators from both parties and both houses heard testimony from aerospace and aviation industry leaders about the state’s growing aerospace ecosystem and the legislative priorities needed to support the sector’s continued growth.
“The Shapiro-Davis Administration is laser-focused on creating ladders of opportunity, so that every Pennsylvanian can live their American dream, right here in the Commonwealth,” Davis said. “The aerospace and aviation industries offer tremendous opportunities for our young people, and they represent our economic future. In addition, it’s inspiring to think that humanity’s future could be found in the stars – and that those scientific discoveries could be made right here in Pennsylvania.”