Initiatives magazine, April 2011 by Huntsville/Madison County Chamber

Initiatives April 2011

April 2011 Initiatives

Initiatives April 2011

Thanks to Our Investors Huntsville Regional Economic Growth Initiative Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County

www.growHuntsville.com

Development Partner ($250,000+ annually)

City of Huntsville Development Council ($125,000+ annually)

Huntsville Utilities Chairman’s Council ($75,000+ annually)

Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Inc. President’s Circle

($50,000+ annually)

Huntsville Hospital Regions Bank Tennessee Valley Authority Leadership Forum ($25,000+ annually) AT&T BBVA Compass The Boeing Company The Huntsville Times LG Electronics Alabama, Inc. Madison County Commission Redstone Federal Credit Union SAIC Verizon Wireless

Executive Council

($15,000+ annually)

BB&T CINRAM, Inc. Emerson Network Power - Avocent Huntsville-Madison County Builders Association Intergraph Corporation Lamar Outdoor Advertising, Inc. North Alabama Multiple Listing Service Wells Fargo Bank April 2011 Initiatives

Chamber Trustees ($10,000+ annually) ADTRAN, Inc. Agility Defense and Government Services Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Alabama Booz Allen Hamilton Breland Companies Camber Corporation Cobham Analytic Solutions Crestwood Medical Center

Progress Partners

Jerry Damson Honda Acura L-3 Communications Corporation Huntsville Operations Lockheed Martin Corporation Look Outdoor Advertising, Inc. SES, Inc. SportsMed Orthopædic Spine & Surgery Center Teledyne Brown Engineering, Inc.

($5,000+ annually)

AEgis Technologies Group, Inc. Analytical Services, Inc. BAE Systems Baron Services, Inc. BASF Catalysts, LLC Beason & Nalley, Inc. Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, LLP City of Madison Coldwell Banker Commercial McLain Real Estate Colonial Properties Trust Consolidated Construction Company DRS Technologies Dynetics, Inc. Enfinger Steele Development, Inc. ERC, Inc.

First Commercial Bank Intuitive Research & Technology Corporation J. Smith Lanier & Co. Lanier Ford Shaver Payne, P.C. LogiCore Navistar Diesel of Alabama, LLC Northrop Grumman Corporation The Orthopædic Center Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, Inc. Samples Properties, Inc. Superior Bank System Studies & Simulation, Inc. Turner Universal Construction Wilmer & Lee, P.A. Yellow Book USA

Progress Investors ($2,500+ annually) Averbuch Realty Co., Inc. Bama Jammer, Inc. BancorpSouth Belzon, Inc. BFA Systems, Inc. BID Designs, LLC Bill Penney Toyota-Mitsubishi BlueCreek Investment Partners Brown Precision, Inc. Bryant Bank Century Automotive Cerqa Chapman Sisson Architects, Inc. Decisive Analytics Corporation Decosimo Certified Public Accountants DESE Research, Inc. DHS Systems, LLC Digium, Inc. FITE Building Co., Inc. Foreign Language Services, Inc. Fountain, Parker, Harbarger & Associates, LLC 4SITE, Incorporated Hardin-Junkin & Co. Wealth Solutions, LLC Huntsville Tractor & Equipment, Inc.

Investor’s Resource/Raymond James Financial Svs. Jacobs ESTS Group KPS Group Kudzu Productions, Inc. Marriott Huntsville Parker Hannifin Corporation Progress Bank PROJECTXYZ, Inc. PPG Aerospace QinetiQ North America QTEC, Inc. Qualis Corporation Radiance Technologies, Inc. Renasant Bank Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Hampton Cove ServisFirst Bank Torch Technologies UBS Financial Services, Inc. United Space Alliance, LLC WAFF-TV Wesfam Restaurants, Inc. (Burger King) Woody Anderson Ford Woodland Homes of Huntsville WHNT-TV

Initiatives April 2011

April 2011 Initiatives

initiatives

Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County

april 2011 cover story

Huntsville Botanical Garden’s Nature Center

TECHNO•LEGACY From wired to wireless, another technology evolves in Huntsville beginning on page 22 Photo courtesy of Synapse Wireless

features Learning Curve Economic Development Highlights including SES, Correlated Magnetics Research, Schafer Corporation, Radiance Technologies and Willbrook Solutions

Huntsville/Madison County, Alabama is located in the middle of the southeastern United States, with more than four million people within a 100-mile radius. The Huntsville community is the economic hub of the northern Alabama/ southern Tennessee region. Huntsville/Madison County’s economy is one of the strongest in the nation, with low unemployment, strong job growth and income levels leading the region. Business growth and investment from U.S. and international companies have made it one of the country’s top “hot spots” for growing a business and raising a family.

Still Growing Strong Spotlight On: Appleton Learning Right Place, Right Time Aviation Station

is to prepare, develop and promote our community for economic growth.

contact Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County 225 Church Street, Huntsville, AL 35801 main line: 256.535.2000 fax: 256.535.2015

online www.HuntsvilleAlabamaUSA.com www.asmartplace.com

fyi

Submissions for editorial content are not accepted. Information in this and other Chamber publications is at the discretion of the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County. Advertising inquiries go through The Huntsville Times.

14 28 32 36

developments

Courtesy of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center; inset photo: Alabama Birding Trail’s iconic kingfisher

mission The mission of the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County

10 12

HREGI Investors Listing Chamber Board Listing Chamber Staff Listing Growth Through Networking HREGI Testimonial Community Profile 2011 Total Resource Campaign Spring Chamber Golf Classic

4 8 26 27 30 34 40 42

editorial staff

Publisher R. Thomas Beason Executive Editor John Southerland

Editorial Designer Kristi Sherrard ontributing Writers C

Lucia Cape, Rick Davis, Harrison Diamond, Ethan Hadley, John Southerland, Loren Traylor and Mike Ward

Photography Chamber of Commerce staff, publications and archive

Advertising Sales Ray Johnson The Huntsville Times Initiatives April 2011

Chamber of Commerce

Executive Committee and Board of Directors 2011 Executive Committee

Charlie Kettle, Chair, First Commercial Bank Jim Bolte, Chair-Elect, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama Don Nalley, Immediate Past Chair, Beason & Nalley Robert Mayes, Secretary/Treasurer, BlueCreek Investment Partners Ron Poteat, Vice Chair - Economic Development, Regions Bank Rose Allen, Vice Chair - Governmental Affairs, Booz Allen Hamilton Frank Caprio, Vice Chair - Member Services, Bradley Arant Boult Cummings Danny Windham, Vice Chair - Workforce, Digium Rey Almodóvar, Vice Chair - Small Business, Intuitive Research &

A Message from Brian Hilson Dear Chamber of Commerce Investors, Community Leaders and Friends: I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on what I believe is Huntsville/Madison County’s greatest strength. It is the characteristic of truly great communities. It is the attribute that sustains outstanding communities through both good times and bad. Over the years in this letter for Initiatives I have emphasized the importance of strong local leadership, both public and private, for having been the key to Huntville’s past success, and the key to its future. Some might insist that other issues like education, workforce, technology and infrastructure are the real keys to future growth and success. They are, but I would argue that none of those strengths for Huntsville would be what they are without community leaders with the vision and commitment to always do what’s best for the community. That’s why Cummings Research Park exists, why the community’s relationship with Redstone Arsenal is what it is, why the Chamber of Commerce is so strong, and it’s why, in my opinion, Huntsville’s leaders will soon take the necessary steps to ensure that one of America’s best communities for economic development once again has a central-city school system that meets the high expectations of its employers and its citizens. I am very proud of all that the Huntsville/Madison County community and the surrounding region have accomplished over the years, and I am especially proud of the role that the Chamber of Commerce has played in growing the economy and making Huntsville a fantastic place to live, work and do business. I believe we can all agree that Huntsville truly is one of America’s finest communities. It has been my honor and privilege to play a small role in Huntsville’s success. As great as it has been, I am confident that the best days are still ahead. I look forward to watching, with great interest and anticipation, Huntsville’s continued success, and to providing any help and support that I can.

Best Wishes,

Brian Hilson Immediate Past President & CEO Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County

April 2011 Initiatives

Technology Corporation

Dr. Pam Hudson, Vice Chair - Research & Information Services, Crestwood Medical Center

Jeremiah Knight, Vice Chair - Image Development, Verizon Wireless Call Center Mayor Tommy Battle, Chair-Appointed, City of Huntsville Mayor Paul Finley, Chair-Appointed, City of Madison Chairman Mike Gillespie, Chair-Appointed, Madison County Commission Tony Jones, Chair-Appointed, The Boeing Company Joe Ritch, Chair-Appointed, Sirote & Permutt Dr. Dave Williams, Chair-Appointed, UAHuntsville Tommy Beason, Interim President & CEO, Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County

Elected Board

Cynthia Achorn, ASRC Federal Joe Alexander, Camber Corporation Cathy Anderson, Woody Anderson Ford Bob Baron, Baron Services Dr. Marc Bendickson, Dynetics Penny Billings, BancorpSouth Miranda Bouldin, LogiCore Greg Bragg, Consolidated Construction Company Everett Brooks, Incrementum Consulting Group Micah Bullard, Turner Universal Construction Glenn Clayton, Appleton Learning Joe Collazo, COLSA Corporation John Eagan, Wells Fargo Bank Kerry Fehrenbach, Intergraph Corporation Ron Gray, Gray Research John Gully, SAIC Steve Hassell, Emerson Network Power John Holly, Lockheed Martin Corporation Dr. Andrew Hugine, Alabama A&M University Simon Kim, LG Electronics Alabama Frederick Lanier, J. Smith Lanier & Co. Kim Lewis, PROJECTXYZ Angie McCarter, Davidson Technologies Rich Marsden, Lanier Ford Shaver & Payne Elizabeth Morard, Qualis Corporation Caroline Myers, Foreign Language Services Joe Newberry, Redstone Federal Credit Union Jim Owens, BBVA Compass Tony Palumbo, retired Crystal Shell, WILL Technology Dr. Ashok Singhal, CFD Research Corporation Todd Slyman, Village of Providence Jan Smith, S 3 Dr. O’Neal Smitherman, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology David Spillers, Huntsville Hospital Tom Stanton, ADTRAN Al Sullivan, Alpha Beta Technologies Dr. Ernie Wu, ERC

Initiatives April 2011

Learning Curve Committee Aims to Help Bolster Huntsville City School System

he vision of the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County is an enhanced quality of life for all citizens in the community. To accomplish that, the Chamber’s mission is to prepare, develop and promote the community for economic growth. Public education and economic growth are inextricably linked, and to reflect this, the Chamber has recently added language to its strategic plan to reflect an enhanced role in improving and supporting the local school systems. An Education Committee has been established, chaired by the Chamber’s immediate past board chair Don Nalley of Beason & Nalley. The Education Committee will be part of the Workforce Division, which has focused for years on career awareness, skills development and workforce recruitment to ensure a future workforce that meets the employment needs of the Huntsville/Madison County economy. Education has a strong correlation to economic performance. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development published a study in January 2010 that linked an increase of 25 points on the PISA (Program for International Student Assessment) with an increase in U.S. gross domestic product of $14 trillion – an amount equal to the current national debt. Nationally, states with the highest education rankings also have the highest per capita income, the best indicator of a state’s economic well-being. In 2008, the Southern Education Foundation issued a report calling high school dropouts Alabama’s number one economic problem. The foundation further defined the factors driving the dropout rate: low academic achievement levels by 8th grade, 10

April 2011 Initiatives

low enrollment in quality pre-K, discipline issues, inadequate funding, and lack of graduation incentives or accountability. The Kauffman Foundation publishes a State New Economy Index that ranks states based on 26 indicators that assess the ability to function in the “new economy” – knowledge-based, globalized, entrepreneurial, ITdriven and innovation-oriented. Alabama’s rank has dropped steadily from 44 in 1999 to 47 in 2010. One of the indicators is workforce education. Alabama ranked 42 in 2007 and has dropped to 45 in 2010. Additionally, in 2008 the Department of Defense cited educational opportunities for children of military and BRAC-impacted employees as a key “quality of life” issue and critical to operational readiness, thus making it a national security issue. It is understood that future BRAC decisions will consider educational capacity and quality when aligning

functions across the country. To assist Huntsville City Schools with its current financial challenges, the Huntsville City Board of Education recently hired Dr. Ed Richardson as a consultant. Dr. Richardson is a former state superintendent, former president of Auburn University and a veteran of school system take-overs for systems facing a financial quandary. His emphasis on public education is well documented. Quite simply, the community’s future could be tied to resolving Huntsville’s public school crisis, he said. “As the public schools go, so goes the community,” said Richardson. Richardson noted that once lost, public schools rarely return to prominence. Through its Education Committee, Chamber officials hope to help bolster the Huntsville City School system by helping eliminate the achievement gap among schools. “The Chamber’s Education Committee

Kauffman New Economy Index (by national ranking) 1 6 11

Massachusetts

Maryland

Virginia Texas

Georgia

North Carolina 36

Alabama

41 46 1999

2002

2007

2008

2010

will work with school officials and stakeholder groups throughout the community to identify, monitor and report on the characteristics associated with first-class school systems,” Nalley said. “The business community has long supported specific education programs and initiatives, but this gives us the opportunity to broadly assist the school systems in providing quality education for all students.” According to research compiled by the National Governors Association, the number one indicator for a child’s success is the educational level of the mother1. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has determined that the highest return on educational investments is at the beginning of a child’s life, and education builds consecutively, so the future of any community rests on how well students are educated. Local business leaders understand, now more than ever, the relationship between education and their future workforce. The Chamber is in a unique position to provide a mechanism for the business community to support the school systems and impact student achievement at all schools in the Huntsville/Madison County community, Nalley said. And, according to Richardson, Huntsville’s renown as an educated, technology community filled with smart residents should translate to a public school system that mirrors such a smart workforce. “Schools are never better than the community demands,” Richardson said. “In Huntsville, which has such a highly educated workforce, those demands mean something.” Nalley said efforts to resolve challenges facing Huntsville City Schools requires the involvement and activity of the entire community. “At the Chamber, we have recognized that we must do our part in providing the community input and participation so critical to driving our school system to the level of excellence required for our kids to participate in the economic vitality we have come to enjoy and almost take for granted,” Nalley said. • Lucia Cape National Governors’ Association: www.nga.org/cda/ files/110802LITERACY.pdf. Additional sources and slides to support statements in this article are available in the presentation, The Power of Education, given by Don Nalley to the Schools Foundation, Principally Speaking network on Feb. 17, 2011, available here: www.huntsvillealabamausa.com/ workforce/coalition_2010_2011.html.

Initiatives April 2011

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF HUNTSVILLE/MADISON COUNTY

SES Opens Hangar to Handle New U.S. Army Aviation Work Science and Engineering Services (SES) recently held a ribbon cutting for the opening of its new 14,000 square foot hangar at Huntsville International Airport. The new hangar will allow SES to expand its operations to support the Army NonStandard Aircraft Program Office and Fixed-Wing growth. Charlie Kettle, Chair of the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County Board of Directors, said SES is indicative of the type of new industry that has come to the area, especially to perform work in support of Army aviation. “SES has become one of the more remarkable economic growth stories in our community over the past several years. They have surged to be among the top in a community that has been considered one of the best places in the nation to do business. SES in many ways represents the growth in the newest frontier of this community’s economic growth,” Kettle said. E.J. Sinclair, SES CEO, said that the hangar would be responsible for modifying the Russian-made Mi-17 and other non-standard and fixed-wing aircraft for the U.S. Army. Sinclair said the work performed at the hangar would bring Army aviators back home faster. “The work that will be performed here will allow us to bring our soldiers home quicker. We are modifying the Mi17 so that our customers will have the same confidence they would have in a U.S. aircraft. The sooner we can get assets to the soldiers, the sooner they can get home,” he said. Maj. Gen. Tim Crosby, program executive officer for aviation, said he believes the operations and community in Huntsville are unmatched anywhere else.

p L-R: SES CEO E.J. Sinclair, Huntsville International Airport Board Chair Betty Fletcher, Chamber of Commerce Board Chair Charlie Kettle and MG Tim Crosby at the opening ceremony of its new 14,000 sq. ft. hangar.

“We are here because it is an opportunity to help soldiers. There is nothing else that is parallel to what we have here. It gives us a rapid response capability. This means jobs to this community. I’ve been impressed with this community and have never seen another community that embraces our mission as much as this one,” Crosby said. Betty Fletcher, Chair of the Huntsville International Airport Board of Directors, explained that the hangar is an excellent location for the company. “This is a red letter day for SES and the airport. You could not have picked a better spot to be,” Fletcher.

Madison Mayor Paul Finley said he is impressed how the entire community comes together to support the soldiers. “Today is another great example of how this community works together toward bigger goals. And supporting our soldiers is what this community is about. I cannot tell you how impressed I am with this facility and what you do to support our community and most importantly our troops.” Huntsville City Administrator Rex Reynolds explained that the work being done by companies such as SES is one of the amazing success stories that Huntsville leaders regularly discuss with others outside the community. •

Huntsville Metro Climbs to No. 2 in Alabama The numbers revealed in the newly released 2010 Census Report underscore what residents in the two-county Huntsville Metropolitan Statistical Area have been saying for years – the community is growing. And according to that report, the Huntsville metro is now the second most populous in Alabama. According to the findings, Huntsville has grown from 158,216 in 2000 to 180,104 in 2010 – a 13.8 percent increase. Madison has experienced a 46.4 percent increase, going from 29,329 to 42,938. Madison County has increased its population from 276,700 to 334,811 – a 21 percent increase since the 2000 Census. Combined, the Huntsville MSA stands at 417,593, up from 342,376 in 2000, representing an increase of 22 percent. The increase moved the Huntsville MSA from third to second in Alabama, surpassing Mobile which is now third at 412,992. The metro consists of the cities of Huntsville and Madison, as well as the counties of Limestone and Madison. All of the areas are experiencing growth. Huntsville was the state’s top gainer – experiencing an increase of more than 21,000 residents. “Huntsville is proud to again be the driving force behind the growth of Madison County and our metro area,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “These numbers show what we already know: Huntsville is a thriving and growing city. The investment we have made in infrastructure and smart growth continues to pay dividends. “So much of our roads and infrastructure is dependent on federal funding and much of that 12

April 2011 Initiatives

comes from the Census numbers. We made every effort to have an accurate count and our residents deserve credit for stepping up and being counted.” Madison County Commission Chairman Mike Gillespie praised the growth and said people from other places have discovered the quality of life and cost-of-living advantages of living in the area. “This is significant for a number of reasons. For every person counted, it is potential new funding for all of us,” Gillespie said. “And I think these numbers further validate that our team approach, from state, local and federal government elected officials working with business and community leaders, pays off. “When people are pulling in the same direction, good things can happen. And people outside this community are realizing that when you come here you can expect to enjoy a great quality of life, a favorable cost of living and good jobs.” Madison Mayor Paul Finley, whose city led the state’s top 20 cities in the percentage of population growth at 46 percent, said there is no time to relax. “It is wonderful to be in such a thriving area,” said Finley. ”But with this growth comes unique challenges with infrastructure such as roads, schools, water, and sewer that need innovative approaches. That is why it is critical for us to increase our sales tax base through economic development and strengthen our partnerships around the region to overcome these challenges.” •

~ continued on page 16

Correlated Magnetics Research Leads Ala. in Most Patents Issued North Alabama inventor leads all 2010 patent winners in the state

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has been exceptionally busy this past year examining new inventions and ideas. A record number of patents issued in 2010 for inventors in Alabama is an indicator of the heightened level of innovation and creative thinking currently emanating from the South. Of all the patents issued to Alabama inventors in 2010, almost 7 percent involved a single North Alabama company founded by Larry Fullerton and Mark Roberts. Fullerton and Roberts’ company Correlated Magnetics Research LLC (CMR) led the way. CMR weighed in at 44 patents issued in 2010. The company was created to pursue research and development of the fundamental invention in magnetism conceived by Fullerton in 2008 that gives the company its name. “The velocity with which these patent claims were processed is incredible,” says CMR President Mark Roberts. “In my experience, a patent filing would typically take at least 36 months to traverse the path from submission to allowance to issuance. CMR patents have averaged 13 months from filing to allowance.” Correlated Magnetics inventor and CMR CEO Larry Fullerton said, “It speaks to the validity of the technology and the value recognized by the patent office. We are getting attention from virtually every major industrial sector you could name.” • Initiatives April 2011

2010 ÂŠ dk-studio.com

Still Growing Strong Huntsville Metro Sees Continued Economic Development Growth in 2010 8000

Announced Jobs

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April 2011 Initiatives

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nnounced new and expanding job figures from the Alabama Development Office for 2010 show the local Huntsville economy continued its trend of positive growth despite a slowdown of the national economy. Madison County industrial companies announced 2,901 new jobs with more than $166 million in new capital investment for the past year. Job growth from primary industry sectors drives the overall growth of the community and this continues to remain positive as evidenced by recent 2010 Census figures. Madison Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 21 percent population growth during the last decade was thanks in large part to the new and expanding companies that added more jobs in the local market. Over the past year, 11 new companies and another U.S. Army command announced moves to the Huntsville region, a sign that investment from new companies is on the rise. Among those new to the area are Advancia, BCF Solutions, CDL Systems USA, GE Aviation, Harris Corporation, which is returning to the community, Siemens Government Services, Thales USA Defense & Security and Vector Aerospace. In addition, officials with the U.S. Army Contracting Command announced that it would relocate its two-star headquarters command from the national capital region to Redstone Arsenal, bringing 393 new jobs. Similarly, the opening of the Defense Acquisition University in Thornton Research Park

Courtesy of Dynetics

p Aerial view of Dynetics’ campus in Cummings Research Park showing both existing buildings plus future additions. Dynetics was just one of the many companies that expanded in 2010.

added 100 jobs and a new state-of-the-art $5.5 million facility. All told, more than 650 jobs from organizations new to the community were announced in 2010. Expanding companies added an additional 2,249 jobs and $11 million in capital investment in Madison County during the same period. Major projects in 2010 included Dynetics, Inc. adding 350 new jobs and a new $52 million building in Cummings Research Park to accommodate new design and prototype work for aerospace, defense and cyber solutions. Raytheon announced plans to add 300 workers and a new $74 million missile production facility on Redstone Arsenal for the Standard Missile program. Lockheed Martin’s new MEADS Battle Management and Test facility opened at the company’s research park campus creating 200 new jobs. Northrop Grumman is expanding locally and adding 300 people as it grows its support for programs at Redstone Arsenal. Science and Engineering Services, Inc. (SES) continues to grow in providing helicopter maintenance and repair for various U.S. Army aviation programs. Other companies with significant expansions in 2010 include APT Research, Integration Innovation, Inc. (i3), Kratos Defense and Yulista Aviation. In total, 61 industrial companies announced growth in Madison County in 2010. Several key projects were also announced in non-industrial sectors such as the $8 million Center for

Systems Studies on the campus of UAHuntsville and the Redstone Gateway office complex at the entrance of Gate 9 at Redstone Arsenal. Charlie Kettle, Chair of the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County, said he sees this growth as a continuation of the primary focus of the Chamber. “Our primary goal at the Chamber is to grow the economic opportunities for the entire community. We do this primarily through assisting new and expanding companies with their economic development needs to help create jobs,” Kettle said. Don Nalley, 2010’s Chamber Chair, reiterated Kettle’s statement. “Our efforts in 2010 served as a continuation of the Huntsville Regional Economic Growth Initiative (HREGI). This is the community’s blueprint for economic growth. The heart of that plan is the attraction and retention of key growth industries.” In fact, since the establishment of the HREGI program in 2004, Madison County companies have announced more than 30,000 new jobs and nearly $2 billion in capital investment from new and expanding projects. “The results speak for themselves,” Kettle said. “If we are to continue to lead the state in economic growth and prosperity we must make sure we are doing everything we need to do to capitalize on the opportunities we have in this community.” • Ken Smith Initiatives April 2011

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS continued from page 13

~ continued on page 18

Shelby Says Huntsville Should Continue as Tech Leader U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby told a sold-out crowd at the Von Braun Center that he would fight to ensure that Huntsville remains a leader in advanced technology and that the nation would not fall behind in space exploration or defense. “I’m going to do everything I can to keep Huntsville relevant in space exploration, homeland security and missile defense and make sure that we are holding the lead in technology,” Shelby said at the event hosted by the Chamber of Commerce. ATK was the presenting sponsor. Shelby said that he was uncertain of the direction NASA would be taking, but was confident that Huntsville will lead the effort. “Whatever direction we take, Huntsville will be at the center of it because you can’t go anywhere without propulsion,” said Shelby. Amidst the current budget crisis in D.C., Shelby said that serious measures need to be taken to get on the right track, including serious cuts to the budget. “We are on an unsustainable path. If you care about your grandchildren, we have to get our house in order. We have a long way to doing that. I think Huntsville will come out good from the talks but not without a fight.” •

April 2011 Initiatives

p Huntsville City Schools Board of Education Vice President Laurie McCaulley speaks with U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby following his recent Washington Update Breakfast, hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County at the Von Braun Center. The annual sold-out event was presented by ATK in 2011.

Initiatives April 2011

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT HIGHLIGHTS continued from page 16

Schafer Celebrates Aerospace, Defense Growth with New Facility Schafer Corporation recently showcased its class of high-tech offerings for a variety of federal government clients such as the Department of Defense and NASA at a recent celebration of the company’s expanded facilities in Thornton Research Park. Schafer, created in 1972, is a leading edge technology company with a legacy rooted in laser and directed energy programs. The expanded facility which is across the street from the nation’s second largest research and development park will provide Schafer with improved lab environments for prototyping and product development for on-going programs and innovative research and development pursuits. In addition to office and conference space, the new facility houses a machine shop, an electronics shop and a high-bay area, according to Charles Chitwood, Schafer vice president and lead for the company’s System Engineering & Integration Division (SEID). “This facility also has increased flexibility for configuring lab space for secure processing, leading the company’s efforts in missile defense, future Army systems, NASA, several product lines and other Schafer work with numerous major aerospace contractors,” Chitwood said. “We look forward to the expansion of Schafer Huntsville capabilities through the additional prototyping and product development work to be accomplished here in this new facility.” Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County ChairElect Jim Bolte praised Schafer as a company that has unlimited

potential to grow in Huntsville. Bolte, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama, served as emcee for the event. “Among their numerous government and industry clients, Schafer supports two of the federal agencies that have long served as primary drivers of our local economy: the Department of Defense and NASA. If you are talking about this community’s sweet spot in economic development, aerospace and defense are at the top of the list,” Bolte said. “We are very well aware of what that means to the growth of our community. Rest assured your Chamber will continue to do everything we can to provide a platform for Schafer’s continued growth and success.” Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle thanked the company for its long-standing commitment to Huntsville. “You’ve got a great history here, and the future is even brighter. It is companies like Schafer that keep Huntsville as a leading technology center of excellence in support of the aerospace and defense industries,” Battle said. Schafer’s SEID supports a broad range of activities, including system concept development and evaluation, systems engineering and integration, test and evaluation and many other services to government customers such as the Missile Defense Agency, the U.S. Army, the U.S. Air Force, NASA Headquarters and NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. Industry teammates in those areas include Northrop Grumman, Boeing, SAIC, Raytheon and Orbital. •

p L-R: Chamber of Commerce Chair-Elect Jim Bolte with Schafer’s Bill Marx, Charles Chitwood, Carol Daniel and Mike Williams at the company’s recent expansion ceremony.

Economic Development Highlights continued on page 20 18

April 2011 Initiatives

Initiatives April 2011

E.D. HIGHLIGHTS

continued from page 18

Radiance Technologies named SBA Tibbetts Award Winner Forty-four small businesses were recently honored for the critical role they play in research and development for the government and for their success in driving innovation and creating new jobs. Among the companies honored was Huntsvilleowned Radiance Technologies. The Tibbetts Awards, given by the U.S. Small Business Administration, honors outstanding small businesses and individuals who participate in the SBA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. “Winning the future requires redoubling our commitment to supporting innovative entrepreneurs like those we honor with Tibbetts Awards,” said Karen Mills, SBA administrator. “Their stories illustrate the promise of the new generation of innovative entrepreneurs and remind us all how central the success of one highgrowth small business can be to our competitiveness as a nation.” The Tibbetts Awards, named after Roland Tibbetts, who was instrumental in developing the SBIR program, are presented to companies and individuals from all over the United States who are beacons of promise and models of excellence in high technology. Tibbetts’ award winners are selected based on the economic impact of their technological innovation, and on whether they have met federal research and development needs, encouraged diverse participation in technological innovation, and increased the commercialization of federal research. Huntsville is no stranger to the Tibbetts Awards. Companies such as CFD Research Corporation have been winners in the past of this prestigious honor. •

April 2011 Initiatives

~ compiled by John Southerland & Harrison Diamond

Kendall Phillips, founder of Willbrook Solutions, Inc.

Willbrook Solutions Opens in Cummings Research Park Willbrook Solutions recently celebrated the opening of its new office in Cummings Research Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Willbrook Solutions was founded a few years ago to provide aerospace and defense industries with comprehensive system analysis and test and evaluation services. The company now supports the Missile Defense Agency, NASA and the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command and has grown to more than 50 workers. “These are the kinds of days we love at the Chamber. This celebration today signifies success for Willbrook Solutions, its employees and our community. It doesn’t get much better than that,” said Charlie Kettle, Chair of the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County Board of Directors. Kendall Phillips, company founder, said the company has faced challenges in Willbrook’s short history much like many small businesses, but he has assembled a team that he says is the best in Huntsville for the company’s customers. “Our customers come to us because they are looking for innovative ideas and someone to help defend the nation and help with space exploration. I know we will face more challenges coming ahead but we have the best people, in the best city, in the best state, in the greatest nation,” Phillips said. Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle lauded the company for its growth. “Thank you for living the Huntsville dream. You as a company are doing exactly what we are doing as a community every day,” he said. • Initiatives April 2011

TECHNO.LEGACY er h t o n A , s s e Wirel o t d e r i tsville W n u H n From i s e Evolv y g o l o n h c e T

Huntsville-based Synapse Wirelessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; SNAP technology controlled and monitored the light suits in the Disney movie Tron: Legacy. The SNAP unit was embedded in illuminated circles on the backs of the actors. Photos courtesy of Synapse Wireless 22

April 2011 Initiatives

When the internet was created and first commercialized, it was the catalyst of a technological revolution that has changed the world. Getting computers to “talk” to one another revolutionized the way people accessed information, how much information that was instantly accessible and how people could suddenly communicate globally. That revolution not only changed technology but also changed society. According to officials and entrepreneurs with two Huntsville-based technology companies, this tech revolution is just getting started.

Synapse Wireless, a local company specializing in wireless technology for monitoring and control applications, has developed technology that can be described as the “internet of things.” Their technology allows machines to “talk” to each other the way the internet allowed computers to talk to one another. And according to company officials, this will change technology as we know it regarding everything from home lighting to Hollywood films. Synapse’s technology, SNAP, was possibly the most overlooked actor in the Hollywood blockbuster film Tron: Legacy. Tron, noted for its stunning visuals, used SNAP to control the lighting of the actors’ signature suits. Synapse’s SNAP network operating system is an internet-enabled, instant-on network system designed to cost-effectively run over a wide range of popular microprocessors and microcontrollers easily and affordably. The SNAP technology allows users to focus on applications, such as home lighting controls and countless others, instead of the network. SNAP supported this advantage in Tron through the wireless and reprogramming of effects on the fly. The technology allowed lighting crews to control the lights on the movie’s trademark illuminated suits and to keep measurements on how hot the lights were burning to prevent injuries. In the filming of a motion picture and its special effects, the capability to re-shoot scenes without the huge expense of having to set up the shot with each take is a great benefit, company officials said. This technology, however, is just the beginning of possibilities and potential applications. According to one Synapse official, this barely scratches the surface of what wireless technology will enable companies to do in the near future. “What computers and the internet did for people, we are doing for machines,” said Synapse’s Bryan Floyd. “There are

literally billions of instances where these types of communications can take place. Our technology provides intelligence for machines, ways for them to sense and interact with the physical world and connects machines with each other as well as with people and the internet.” Floyd said this type of communication between machines is already happening and companies must get on the bandwagon or face being left behind. “How are you going to compete in just a few years if your technology can’t communicate? We have a leg up on the competition because we know how to connect machines with each other and with the internet.” Synapse has limitless applications for its products. “Healthcare workers use our SNAP technology in a badge to track whether they washed their hands. It is estimated that 1.7 million people at a cost of more than $30 billion will contract healthcare associated infections during a hospital stay,” he said. “Helping to eliminate such unnecessary suffering and cost means so much to us – well beyond business goals.” Other users of the technology include the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport. Officials with the airport realized that baggage handlers were vulnerable to bad weather because they could not always get news of danger. And it was too expensive to break up the concrete and run wires to get messages to the handlers, so the airport adopted Synapse’s wireless SNAP technology, Floyd said. Synapse has its roots, like many local firms, in the many technology companies that have called Huntsville home for years. Many of Synapse’s first employees came from Intergraph, Adtran and others. Floyd said that wireless technology is still evolving and being improved by many companies due to its complexity. “The complexity in working with net-

works is still a black art to most people. Sending packets of data wirelessly and then being able to reliably unpack it and actually use it in an application is beyond the reach of most companies. But with Synapse, they get a software environment, called Portal, that makes it easy for them to create applications without having to understand the inner workings of a network. “Engineering involves decisions about what to do and what not to do. So picking Synapse means that the act of intelligent machine communication is taken out of the ‘to do’ equation and our customers can focus on their own products. There is no other technology like it.” Floyd said he sees the industry on the verge of explosive growth. “The industry’s potential is so great. I’m talking like Microsoft and Google. In five years, you will see a company rise to the top that you’ve never heard of before. I don’t see a limit.” As for Synapse, Floyd said he is equally enthusiastic about the company’s future. The company recently joined with Future Electronics, a leading distributor of semiconductor and electro-mechanical components in 42 countries throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. Floyd said he believes that Huntsville is a hotspot for companies like Synapse and other high technology firms. “There is a culture of creative engineers here and a constantly growing list of new companies. I heard a news story in California about the demise of Silicon Valley and the rise of Huntsville as one of the places to be for ground-breaking technical developments. Even during the recession Huntsville seems to have a resiliency unlike any other engineering community.” Another quickly emerging company in the vast technology scene in Huntsville is – continued on page 24 Initiatives April 2011

TECHNO•LEGACY, continued from page 23 –

The ANSWeR iS comiNg SooN 24

April 2011 Initiatives

Halo Monitoring, which is using wireless technology in innovative ways to help seniors and their families live more safely in their homes. Chris A. Otto co-founded Halo Monitoring with Chirag Patel after examining the level of products available for his mother, who was providing care for his grandmother. Halo’s product, the myHalo clip and myHalo chest strap is the first of its kind to have advanced fall detection, or the ability to sense a fall and call for help without the user ever having to press a button. These advancements aim to monitor in the most unobtrusive manner possible, and to employ intelligent and proactive solutions. Halo’s fall detection technology can call emergency services instantly and can also send a text message, email or telephone call to caregivers according to their preference. If the fall is serious, an emergency team is sent the location of the fall site so that they can begin immediate care. No further action is needed, unlike other alert systems. Prompt care after a fall is critical. A recent study by the National Institute of Health revealed that 67 percent of the elderly who fall are incapacitated to the point of being unable to seek assistance independently. In other words - they will not be able to press the panic button to receive the help they need. Further studies show that seniors who remain on the floor for longer than 72 hours will not survive. However, if help can be attained within one hour, the seniors are nearly six times more likely to survive and return to their homes. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that one out of three senior adults fall each year, and in 2008, more than 2.1 million seniors were injured in falls. “Staying active, regular review of all medications, and making your home safer are all proven ways to reduce the risk of falling,” said Otto. “However, it’s important that families understand that despite all precautions, accidents still happen. Even minor falls can turn deadly if a fallen loved one is left alone for extended periods. It is critical that help arrive within the first four hours of a fall.” A chest strap containing sensors is able to measure the user’s spatial orientation and determine if they fell. This is an important attribute considering the possibility of a fall resulting in unconsciousness. The sensors use a proprietary algorithm based upon years of study and observation. The sensors in the strap just don’t detect

if someone has fallen, the sensors are capable of measuring key vital signs such as heart rate and temperature – a feature comparable technologies lack. Knowing the vital signs of a senior in advance allows faster and more accurate response when responders arrive on the scene. The device has proven so popular that the company has more than a dozen workers in Huntsville, and a network of more than 140 dealers nationally. “We are literally growing every day,” Otto said. As the population grows older, it only seems logical that technology like this that offers safety and independence at the same time will catch on. “Baby boomers are responsible for the care of their aging parents and their own children, an overwhelming task most people aren’t prepared for,” said Otto. “Families want to respect an elderly loved one’s wishes to live at their own home where it’s familiar and comfortable, but someone needs to be available just in case. Monitoring systems provide additional security and peace of mind to these families.” A new study from Humana shows how so-called “sandwich boomers” – those caring for their own children and their parents – are

p The Halo transmitter is small and worn comfortably around the chest. The monitor is able to determine if a fall happened and track vital signs—both of which are crucial data needed to save a life.

feeling the pressure of this new burden. Concerns over care have resulted in people missing work and forgoing much needed vacation time. For family members not in the same area – which includes 5-7 million people, according to AARP – the technology is still useful and comforting. “Traditional medical alarms are limited in their ability to cater to long-distance caregivers and their loved ones. If a senior falls, they alone must signal for help. However, studies have shown us that in 4 out of 5 cases, seniors are unable to push a panic button after a fall has occurred,” according to Otto. “myHalo no-

tifies long-distance caregivers by text message or email of events that require their attention. Additionally, concerned family members can use the Internet to confirm their loved ones are OK. When you can’t be there physically, this is the next best thing. Many people don’t realize that these advanced features are available today with innovative medical alarms like myHalo, at the same price as traditional medical alarms.” From saving lives to creating stunning visuals, Huntsville’s wireless companies are changing the way people live and machines operate. • Harrison Diamond & Ethan Hadley

Initiatives April 2011

Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County

2 0 1 1 S TA F F Tommy Beason, interim president & CEO Laura Kendrick, manager, investor relations Tammy Gregory, executive assistant

Communications John Southerland, communications director Kristi Sherrard, graphic designer

Economic Development Ethan Hadley, VP, economic development Steve Finnell, director, industrial development/ existing industry

Rick Davis, director, Cummings Research Park Harrison Diamond, economic development coordinator

Amy Locke, industrial development/existing industry assistant

Finance & Administration Christy Nalley, director, finance & administration Jamie Gallien, IT manager Mary McNairy, accounting specialist Lori Warner, accounting specialist Joe Watson, facilities supervisor

Governmental Affairs Mike Ward, VP, governmental affairs Tina Leopold, governmental affairs assistant

Member & Small Business Services Jenni Jeffers, director, member & small business services

Shannon Drake, director, Total Resource Campaign Terrie Ledbetter, membership representative Mike Brazier, membership representative Donna McCrary, membership specialist Kathleen Byrne, events coordinator Mitzi Floyd, small business coordinator

Research & Information Services Ken Smith, director, research & information services Hiroko Sedensky, web designer/research specialist Urisa Rêvé Smith, information services specialist

Workforce Lucia Cape, VP, workforce Mark Brown, director, workforce recruitment Amanda Bishop, workforce assistant

Associated Organization WBCNA (Women’s Business Center of North Alabama)

Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County 225 Church Street, Huntsville, AL 35801 phone 256-535-2000 / fax 256-535-2015 www.HuntsvilleAlabamaUSA.com 26

April 2011 Initiatives

Growth Through Networking The Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County hosts numerous events each month to create networking and business growth opportunities for members and to coordinate efforts to grow the community. Examples of recent events include:

Business After Hours presented by Cumulus Media

More than 300 people attended Business After Hours at The Zone. Business After Hours allows Chamber members to network in a relaxed, less formal environment.

Welcome Reception for LTG Formica Business and community leaders from all over the Tennessee Valley attended a special welcome reception for LTG Richard Formica and his wife Diane. Formica is the commanding general of the U.S. Army Space and Missile Command.

WBC Quarterly Forum Luncheon presented by iBERIABANK

The Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Business Council forum luncheons continue to be sell-out events. The most recent luncheon featured a discussion of leadership in the home, business and community by Sarah Savage, President & CEO of Leadership Huntsville/Madison County. Chamber members benefit from networking events, electronic and printed publications, educational programs for small business and, perhaps most importantly, the knowledge that they are part of a collective effort to establish Huntsville/Madison County as a stronger, more visible community in the global competition for economic growth.

Initiatives April 2011

SPOTLIGHT ON 2010 Small Business Award Winner : Professional Services category

Initiatives recently met with Appleton Learning President and Founder Glenn Clayton to get more insight on the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/ Madison County’s 2010 Small Business Awards winner, Professional Services category.

Q: How long has your company been in business? A: The company was founded in 2004.

Q: In what industry is your business and what are your principal products and/or services? A: Appleton Learning is an innovative educational services provider that helps students develop confidence and a competitive advantage in and out of the classroom.

Q: Why was Appleton Learning founded?

p Glenn Clayton, President of Appleton Learning, at the 25th Annual Small Business Awards. q Dr. Amin Sarkar of Alabama A&M University, Lori King-Taylor and Richard King with Eagle Collision, the 2009 winner, present Clayton his award. u Clayton and Danny Windham, CEO

of Digium and 2010 Vice Chair for Small Business.

A: Appleton’s story is deeply rooted in education. President and Founder Glenn Clayton began his college career on a full academic scholarship but quickly realized that he needed to earn money to pay for college essentials. He began tutoring fellow classmates to supplement his income and quickly identified a void in the way that traditional tutoring and educational programs served students. Traditional tutoring programs were rigid and did not account for the individual’s unique learning style, personality or goals. Clayton developed a tutoring process that tailored the teaching approach to the individual’s personality and learning style. He sought to make learning interesting and that meant developing a different approach for each student. Appleton was founded with that goal in mind – to help students reach their individual goals through the power of individualized learning.

Q: What has been the company’s greatest achievement? A: Appleton’s greatest achievement has been in developing a completely new and innovative system of determining how students learn most effectively and designing instructional programs around those unique differences. Appleton enlisted the services of doctoral-level psychologists and educators to examine the personality and learning style variables most consistently linked to academic performance. Appleton’s researchers determined that academic improvement was directly linked to a strong personal rapport between student and educator, as well as a deep understanding of which instructional methods were most effective with that student. However, there were no tools available in the education industry to identify and measure these factors. As a result of this realization, Appleton developed geniuStyle™, a proprietary assessment capable of providing a roadmap for academic success. This assessment became the foundation of Appleton’s groundbreaking approach to individualized learning and has

April 2011 Initiatives

earned them national recognition as a Dell Small Business Excellence Award Finalist and recognition by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as one of the Top 75 Small Businesses in the Country.

Q: What are your goals for the next five years? A: Our goals over the next five years are to continue to create opportunities for students to develop to their full potential – but on a national stage. Appleton Learning sold its first franchise in 2010 and will open several more during 2011. Our School Services Division (a division of the company that makes our revolutionary approach to learning available to schools) is also expanding rapidly with operations in four states. In five years, Appleton wants to be a recognizable national brand…and we are well on our way to seeing that goal become a reality.

Q: What is the company’s vision? A: A Smarter Tomorrow.

Q: How has being active in the Chamber helped you? A: The awards and recognition we have received from the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County have helped to spread our reputation throughout the country. By getting involved and networking with the right people, we have made the connections we need to grow our business and expand our services. The support from the Chamber has been invaluable. • Initiatives April 2011

strength in

numbers

connects business prospects

“Huntsville’s growth and success are important to each of us. ADTRAN is pleased to invest in the community through the Huntsville Regional Economic Growth Initative.

will continue to propel Huntsville forward.

”

For a list of HREGI investors, see page 4 or visit: www.growHuntsville.com 30

April 2011 Initiatives

Working together, we

Tom Stanton, Chairman & CEO

ADTRAN, Inc. HREGI Investor since 2004

Initiatives April 2011

Right Place, Right Time Mercury May Rise for Company’s Growth Opportunities in Huntsville

u The Ensemble™ 6000 Series 6U

OpenVPX™ GSC6200 GPU Processing Module harnesses NVIDIA and ATI GPUs for rugged, high-performance, embedded signal and image processing in a broad range of defense and commercial applications.

p The Echotek Series RFM-1802RF with Synthesizer ADV-1800S Dual-Channel Wideband Microwave

Tuner is an ultra high-performance tuner, featuring low phase noise and extremely fast tuning speed.

April 2011 Initiatives

n a late summer night in 2010, Mercurcy Computers President and CEO Mark Aslett and several members of the company’s leadership team arrived in Huntsville to help celebrate Mercury’s expansion here. Mercury was expanding its office and manufacturing space in Cummings Research Park, and Aslett was making one of his frequent visits to Huntsville since Mercury acquired the former Echotek Computer Products in 2005. After an evening of getting acquainted with elected officials and community leaders, Aslett, whose headquarters is in Chelmsford, Mass., braved a sweltering Alabama August day to reaffirm the company’s commitment to growing its Huntsville footprint. “We have invested heavily in this company,” Aslett said then, “and we have been very impressed with the economic climate and infrastructure in Huntsville.” Less than six months after making those comments, Aslett and Mercury announced the company had made an acquisition that could positively impact the Huntsville operation in the future. On Wednesday, Jan. 12, Mercury (NASDAQ: MRCY) acquired LNX Corporation, based in Salem, N.H., to complement and improve its product offerings to its customer base. “LNX is a company that specializes in microwave and RF (radio frequency) products,” said Bill Ceccherini, Vice President

u The Echotek

Series DCM-V6XMC module implements a flexible FPGA-based architecture in a space-efficient mezzanine card form factor.

for Microwave and Digital Solutions, a new division created by the acquisition. “Mercury had already been well established on the processor side of the house, and we see this as a further extension into the systems and capabilities we can provide; getting the information from the antenna all the way through to a digital world where it can be manipulated in today’s systems.” Mercury calls itself a “best of breed” provider of systems for the ISR (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) market. Mercury serves a broad range of sectors: aerospace and defense, homeland security, telecommunications, and other challenging computational commercial markets. Many of Mercury’s successful applications are at work now, operating on cuttingedge defense platforms such as the Global Hawk and Predator unmanned aerial vehicles. Ceccherini said the acquisition has created a potentially positive environment for growth in Huntsville. “We’re now beginning to rationalize where things will be manufactured (going forward),” he said. “And there’s a good chunk of products that will be coming here to be manufactured. At some point in time, that will exceed what we have in personnel here and we’ll have to add people yet again.” Mercury has grown its Huntsville operations from 55 people in late 2008 to about 70 people today. And while there are a number of variables that could impact future continued on page 35 Initiatives April 2011

community profile

TOP 10 EMPLOYERS Redstone Arsenal* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30,000

Population

Madison County

City of Huntsville

2000 Census

276,700

158,216

29,329

342,376

Huntsville Hospital System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,280

2010 Census

334,811

180,105

42,938

417,593

The Boeing Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,000

46.4%

21.9%

Huntsville City Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,000

% Growth

21.0%

13.8%

City of Huntsville Madison Metro Area

Madison County Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,389

Households & Income* # of Households

128,729

Avg. Household Income $75,911 Per Capita Income

$30,835

NASA/Marshall Space Flight Center* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,500

75,737

14,707

155,251

$71,775

$94,538

$73,316

$31,226

$35,496

$29,026

Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (www.census.gov), *2009 American Community Survey

SAIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,242 City of Huntsville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,206 UAHuntsville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,675 Sanmina-SCI Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,578 Source: Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County *includes on-site contractors

Aerospace & Defense Huntsville/Madison County is home to the U.S. Army Redstone Arsenal and NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center which combine to drive a thriving aerospace and defense technology industry. More than 36,500 people work at Redstone Arsenal and NASA managing some of the country’s most important and sophisticated technology programs including missiles, aviation and space exploration.

Research & Technology

Huntsville’s Cummings Research Park has earned a reputation as a global

For more information visit:

park in the U.S., Cummings Research Park is home to more than 285 compa-

HuntsvilleAlabamaUSA.com

nies and 25,000 people involved in technology research and development.

April 2011 Initiatives

leader in technology development. The second-largest science and technology

Right Place, Right Time, continued from page 33 – u The Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense Signal Processor and Multi-Mission Signal Processor

will provide fleet commanders with a great leap in capability to detect, track and target ballistic missile targets. q The Predator UAS employs the Lynx family of SAR reconnaissance and surveillance systems, along with Mercury’s signal processing modules.

growth, not the least of which is shrinking Defense budgets, Ceccherini said Mercury remains committed to Huntsville. “You’ve seen the investments we’ve made here over the last year,” he said. “A company doesn’t do that and then walk away. Huntsville is a great community for us from a number of standpoints.” Ceccherini cited the area’s diverse population, the ease in which newcomers are accepted into the community, and a growing relationship with the leadership at UAHuntsville as valid reasons for Mer-

cury’s growth in Huntsville. What’s happened in Huntsville “is nothing short of phenomenal,” Ceccherini said. Mercury has now leased an entire building in Executive Plaza in CRP East, “and we’ve doubled our capacity from a manufacturing standpoint. We’ve continued to add people here, and I see a lot of that continuing.” Ceccherini said the company would likely need skilled manufacturing technicians, as well as engineers. “When volume grows in manufacturing, you have only a finite period of time in which to do the work. To do the

growth on the engineering side, it’s critical to put the right skill sets in place.” Another positive for Huntsville is its reputation as a world-class community teeming with technology workers. “From a manufacturing standpoint, no, we haven’t had any problems finding people,” Ceccherini said. “From a test capability within the manufacturing environment, it’s been a little harder. We’re very persnickety there, but we do see it as a very, very competitive market.” • Staff Reports

Initiatives April 2011

Aviation Station Calhoun to Offer Training on All Army Aviation Platform Designs

p The Kiowa Warrior aircraft is designed to conduct armed reconnaissance, security, target acquisition and designation, command and control, light attack and defensive air combat missions. In Huntsville, government workers and contractors support the U.S. Army Aviation mission by continuing to provide installs of safety and performance modifications to keep the aircraft safe and mission effective. 36

April 2011 Initiatives

n February the Alabama State Board of Education approved a request to allow Calhoun Community College to offer aviation courses at Calhoun’s Decatur campus. This vote capped two years of discussions between aviation business leaders and state workforce officials on the need for such training to support the growing demands for qualified aviation workers in the community. The training will be offered through the Alabama Aviation College at Enterprise State Community College in Ozark. “We are extremely excited to have the opportunity to add this much-needed and high demand aviation program to our course offerings and to be able to work closely with Enterprise President Nancy Chandler and her very qualified team,” said Calhoun President Marilyn Beck. “This training will enhance the current and potential economic development opportunities in aviation and related fields in North Alabama, and it is a natural fit for this area,” said Mary Scott Hunter, Alabama State Board of Education representative from District VIII, which includes Huntsville/Madison County. “Business and Industry have long been asking for this component, and I am pleased that we have been able to bring it.” Following the Chamber’s annual Montgomery trip in 2009, business leaders and state officials began discussing the growing demand for Army aviation-related workers in the region. The Chamber hosted an initial meeting in July 2009 between local aviation companies and officials from the Governor’s Office of Workforce and the Alabama Aviation Center, the only Federal Aviation

pq Workers install modifications on all U.S Army rotary wing aircraft in Huntsville in support of the U.S. Army Aviation mission around the world. Platforms that receive modifications include the Apache Longbow, the Black Hawk, the Chinook and the Kiowa Warrior. Work is performed at government-owned and contractor-owned facilities throughout the Huntsville/ Madison County area. Calhoun Community College will soon be able to help meet current Army Aviation workforce demands by offering training to prospective workers on all Army Aviation platform designs.

Administration approved training provider in the state. A survey was conducted to determine employer interest in utilizing a local training program, and the results were shared with the state. Meetings continued in 2010 as industry continued to express its aviation workforce needs, culminating in the decision this year to establish the program at Calhoun Community College. The 1995 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) brought the U.S. Army Aviation and Troop Command from St. Louis to join with the U.S. Army Missile Command on Redstone Arsenal, resulting in the establishment of the Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM). The 2005 BRAC increased the rotarywing presence at Redstone by bringing the Army Aviation Test Center from Fort Rucker to merge with the Redstone Technical Test Center to create the Redstone Test Center (RTC). RTC combines the testing of missile, aviation and sensor systems, subsystems and components with the testing of

the airworthiness and safety qualifications of aircraft and related aviation equipment. The RTC Rotary Wing Center’s new hangar facility, when complete, will accommodate 60 different aircraft representing all design series in the Army fleet. Redstone Arsenal is also home to the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center (AMRDEC) and the Program Executive Office (PEO) for Army Aviation. PEO Aviation is responsible for providing overall direction and guidance for the development, acquisition, testing, product improvement and fielding of Army aviation systems. “PEO Aviation is encouraged and pleased to see the community, industry, and education system in North Alabama teaming to develop skilled individuals and a talent base to support our Army aviation programs and our Soldiers,” said Ray Sellers, chief of staff for PEO Aviation. continued on page 38

Initiatives April 2011

Aviation Station, continued from page 37 –

“This undertaking is clearly a recognition and commitment to establish local education programs and reflects the positive effort to institutionalize formalized training for an ever increasing requirement for aviation occupations and skill sets in the Tennessee Valley,” said Stephen Dwyer, Vice President of Human Resources at Science and Engineering Services, Inc. (SES). “By having this new feeder system that Calhoun is developing, we’ll have the final ingredient to provide the essential elements required for total life-cycle sustainment of Army aviation, from prototyping and integration to manufacturing and maintenance.” When the discussions began between local industry and state officials, Ronnie Boles was chair of the Workforce Development Council for Region 2, which includes both Madison and Morgan Counties. He was instrumental in keeping the topic under discussion. “As the Region 2 Workforce Council witnessed the BRAC transfer of the Aviation Technical Test Center from Fort Rucker to Redstone, funding was approved to place FAA certified training in North Alabama to serve the needs of the rapidly expanding aviation support industry,” said Boles. “We recruited retired General and Army aviator Bill Forrester of SES to sit on the Council, representing the many aviation contractors centered on Redstone Arsenal. The placement of the FAA certified training facility at Calhoun was in response to the aviation industry’s request under General Forrester’s leadership.” According to Bethany Clem, dean for Business, Technologies and Workforce Development at Calhoun, the college will offer the new aviation classes during the 2011 fall semester which begins in August. • Lucia Cape 38

April 2011 Initiatives

Initiatives April 2011

Riders Head to Starting Gate

Let the Opportunities Begin! • Key sponsorship opportunities for Chamber events most important to your business • Maximize your marketing dollars to align with marketing goals through TRC • Expand your network while spending your marketing dollars strategically • Brand your company to current and potential clients • TRC Volunteers will be calling soon!

For more information, email TRC@hsvchamber.org, call Shannon at 256-535-2023, or visit us online:

www.HuntsvilleAlabamaUSA.com }click TRC button 40

April 2011 Initiatives

here are a number of ways small and large companies and organizations can use the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/Madison County to grow their businesses, expand their pool of potential clients and grow their personal network. Through the many events and opportunities offered by the Chamber, there are two defining ways that companies and even representatives of those companies can benefit. The first is through the Huntsville Regional Economic Growth Initiative (HREGI), which is the investment opportunity that members have to help the Chamber accomplish its mission of creating jobs in the community. Another is the Total Resource Campaign (TRC) – which provides a platform for organizations to attach their name to specific Chamber events and activities through sponsorship opportunities sold by volunteers over an 8-week period. With the 2011 TRC ready to spring out of the starting gate, there will be some positive changes to the program as Chamber officials and volunteers considered the best way to leverage TRC to best support the Chamber’s core mission, which is accomplished through the HREGI strategic plan. “We have some changes we are implementing to enhance TRC that will also help us better meet our core objective, which is accomplished through HREGI,” said Charlie Kettle, Chair of the Board of Directors for the Chamber of Commerce of Huntsville/ Madison County. Shannon Drake, 2011 Director of TRC, said it is one of the most exciting and dynamic opportunities for volunteers and member companies alike. “It is such a great opportunity for our members to take Drake advantage of this focused program to align their marketing dollars with the specific events they think will benefit them the most. Not all events are for everyone, and TRC offers members the opportunity to see what events and activities are more targeted for their businesses. The program offers great exposure and an incredibly diversified list of activities,” Drake said. For more information about the 2011 TRC, please visit the web site, call 256.535.2023 or email TRC@hsvchamber.org. • Staff Reports

Initiatives April 2011

April 2011 Initiatives

Initiatives April 2011

April 2011 Initiatives