News Summary
Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair leads an Alabama delegation to the Paris Air Show, aiming to showcase the state’s aerospace industry potential. The delegation includes economic development professionals and community leaders, who will engage key aerospace companies to promote investment in Alabama. This participation highlights Alabama’s achievements in attracting investments and creating jobs in the aerospace sector, a crucial step towards fostering international partnerships and driving economic growth.
Alabama Delegation Attends 2025 Paris Air Show
Commerce Secretary Ellen McNair is leading an Alabama delegation to the 2025 Paris Air Show, one of the top international trade exhibitions for the aerospace industry. The event will take place from June 16-22 at Paris-Le Bourget Airport, where it is expected to attract major players from aviation, aerospace, and defense sectors.
The Alabama contingent comprises economic development professionals, company officials, and community leaders from various regions, including Huntsville/Decatur, Mobile, Birmingham, Montgomery, and Auburn/Opelika. Additionally, representatives from Auburn University, the University of Alabama in Huntsville, and the Alabama Community College System will be present to underscore the state’s commitment to education and workforce development in aerospace.
The delegation is set to engage in scheduled meetings with key officials from leading aerospace companies, aiming to promote Alabama as a prime destination for investment and growth in the aviation and defense sectors. With significant political backing, key political figures such as Liz Filmore, U.S. Senator Katie Britt, and U.S. Representatives Dale Strong and Mike Rogers will accompany the team, enhancing Alabama’s visibility in the global aerospace community.
Focus on Economic Growth and Connectivity
The primary objective of the delegation is to renew relationships with existing industry leaders and forge new partnerships with companies considering investments in the United States. Secretary McNair has emphasized Alabama’s readiness for expansion in the aerospace sector, highlighting that the state has successfully attracted over $4 billion in new investments and created more than 10,000 job commitments in the past decade.
According to experts in the commerce department, discussions at previous air shows have led to significant growth projects for Alabama from notable companies such as GE Aerospace and GKN Aerospace. The state’s contribution to the aerospace industry is further illustrated by the participation of Alabama aerospace and defense companies, like SEA Wire and Cable and Alabama Aerospace, which will showcase their products at the “Made in Alabama” booth in the U.S. Pavilion.
Showcasing Alabama’s Aerospace Industry
SEA Wire and Cable specializes in military and commercial aerospace products, while Alabama Aerospace focuses on providing fasteners and electromechanical components to a variety of industries. Both companies will interact with foreign buyers during the event, aiming to expand their reach and secure new business opportunities internationally. Christina Stimpson from the Office of Global Business has highlighted the significance of these interactions in facilitating the global expansion of Alabama-based businesses.
In addition to Secretary McNair, the Alabama Commerce team includes Veronica Crock, the Senior Project Manager, and Stefania Jones, Chief External Affairs Officer. Their presence at the air show is regarded as crucial for showcasing the state’s innovative capabilities and expertise on an international stage.
Background on the Paris Air Show
The Paris Air Show is recognized as the premier exhibition for the aerospace sector, drawing attention from myriad decision-makers in the industry. This globally significant event provides a platform for countries to showcase their advancements and foster business relationships. For Alabama, participating in the air show is a strategic move aimed at maintaining competitiveness within the rapidly evolving aerospace landscape and securing its economic future through enhanced partnerships and investment inflows.
The trip to the Paris Air Show is positioned as a vital mission for the Alabama delegation to highlight the state’s potential in aviation and defense, setting the stage for future opportunities that will benefit both local industries and the economy as a whole. As the aerospace industry continues to grow globally, Alabama aims to leverage its unique advantages to attract investments and enhance its workforce capabilities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WTVY: Alabama Set to Take Part in 2025 Paris Air Show
- Wikipedia: Paris Air Show
- Made in Alabama: Alabama Aims to Expand Global Aerospace Partnerships
- Google Search: 2025 Paris Air Show
- Yellowhammer News: Canfield Heads State Group at Paris Air Show
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aerospace
- WSFA: Alabama Sending Group to Paris Air Show
- Google News: Alabama Aerospace Industry
- Alabama Reporter: Leaders Haggle for More Growth at Paris Air Show
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
