Browning and Wade Huebsch had only a month to create a wind tunnel model for a harpoon missile for the U . S . Navy . The researchers turned to one of the hub ’ s shop managers , Kelsey Crawford , in hopes they would be able to assemble the 50-piece project before the tight deadline .
“ They were not only able to help us with timely prototyping of key components but also offered expert advice on various component designs ,” says Huebsch . “ With the short time window we had to work with , it was a huge help to have this in-house capability .”
The hub is currently expanding capabilities and equipment to deliver more options in the manufacturing field that will take projects in aerospace research to new heights .
Southern West Virginia Counties Certified AEROready
The seven-county region supporting Yeager Airport has received certification as an AEROready community . AEROready certification involves a deep analysis of property , labor , education and infrastructure to ensure a region has the capacity to support the aerospace industry . The Yeager Airport analysis includes Boone , Kanawha , Lincoln , Logan , Mingo , Putnam and Roane counties .
“ We want the aviation industry to know West Virginia can be a hub for its businesses ,” says Yeager Airport Director Nick Keller . “ This certification allows us to go out and recruit businesses to come here so we can continue building the aviation industry in the Mountain State .”
Consultants Tucson Atlantic Consulting and Common Sense Economic Development led the certification process , which was funded by Appalachian Power , according to John Smolak , Appalachian Power economic development director . The AEROready studies are part of the company ’ s West Virginia Advantage Plan , which is providing $ 1 million in funding to economic development projects across the company ’ s service area .
“ Appalachian Power is dedicated to providing resources to assist our communities in attracting and retaining industry ,” says Brad Hall , Appalachian Power ’ s external affairs vice president . “ These aerospace programs have the potential to bring highwage jobs to the region . We are appreciative of the collaboration with our local partners as we all work to create a better future for West Virginia .”
Last fall , the regions around Raleigh County Memorial Airport and Greenbrier Valley Airport both received AEROready certification . These certification efforts were also funded by Appalachian Power ’ s West Virginia Advantage Plan . Previously , the four counties supporting Huntington Tri-State Airport were certified as AEROready , so a total of 21 counties in the state have the coveted certification , along with four commercial airports .
The certification process helps area economic developers determine whether to target aerospace industries , and it provides those industries with a wealth of data they can use to make decisions about where to locate . •
Congratulations ,
Bob Noone , on being chosen as a member of the Lawyers & Leaders Class of 2020 .
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WWW . WVEXECUTIVE . COM FALL 2020 115