Utah alliance for economic development networking event

UTAH'S AEROSPACE, DEFENSE & ADVANCED AIR MOBILITY FUTURE

Date | Time:
June 30, 2026 | 8:00–10:00 am

8:00 am    Registration and networking
8:30 am    Event kickoff and short presentation
8:45 am    Small group conversations and rotation
9:30 am    Potential tour and more networking

Location:
Fortem Technologies | Lindon, Utah
Address: 1855 W 500 N, Lindon, UT 84042

Join the Utah Alliance for Economic Development for an engaging morning of industry insights, networking, and interactive discussion focused on Utah's rapidly growing aerospace, defense, and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sectors.

Utah has emerged as a national leader in aerospace manufacturing, defense technologies, autonomous systems, and next-generation aviation. As one of only eight states selected to participate in the FAA and UDOT Advanced Air Mobility initiative, Utah is helping shape the future of transportation, economic development, innovation, and national security. This unique event will bring together economic development professionals, business leaders, community stakeholders, and industry partners to explore the opportunities and challenges driving growth across Utah's aerospace and defense ecosystem.

CONFIRMED SPEAKERS

• Ben Hart, Executive Director, Utah Inland Port Authority (UIPA)
• Paul Damron, CEO of Damron Consulting
• Chris Metts, Vice President of Aerospace & Innovation (Advanced Air Mobility), 47G

Unlike a traditional panel discussion, this event is designed to encourage meaningful engagement and conversation. Attendees will hear brief industry insights from featured speakers before participating in facilitated small-group discussions focused on topics such as:

• Aerospace and defense industry growth in Utah
• Advanced Air Mobility and emerging aviation technologies
• Economic development opportunities and challenges
• Workforce development and talent attraction
• Infrastructure and site readiness
• Innovation, manufacturing, and supply chain opportunities

In addition to educational programming, attendees will have the opportunity to network with industry leaders and economic development professionals from across the state. We are also exploring the possibility of offering a tour of Fortem Technologies' facility, showcasing the innovative drone and autonomous technologies being developed and manufactured in Utah.

Whether you work in economic development, government, business, workforce development, infrastructure planning, real estate, advanced manufacturing, or technology, this event will provide valuable insights into one of Utah's fastest-growing industries and the opportunities it presents for communities and organizations across the state.
Space is limited. Register today!