Game-changing investments in A.I. and semiconductors position Utah as world’s global ecosystem for aerospace and defense.
Salt Lake City, UT (October 12, 2023) –The Utah Aerospace and Defense Association has unveiled a new vision for the state as it seeks to build the world’s premier ecosystem for aerospace, defense, and cyber companies. The organization has launched its new brand “47G” and announced a gamechanging partnership with the University of Utah for generational investments in artificial intelligence and semiconductor technologies that have the potential to revolutionize the industry.
The 47G brand is rooted in the human drive to explore new frontiers on earth and in space. The brand honors Utah’s legacy while simultaneously bringing into focus the unprecedented, fast-paced nature of rapid technological innovation happening in Utah.
“The new brand for our organization holds deep significance; it is more than just a new name. 47G pays homage to the Utah pioneers who settled the region in 1847 and to the test pilots who shattered records to experience nearly 47 g, the greatest acceleration ever achieved by humankind,” said Aaron Starks, 47G president and CEO. “Utah’s frontier landscape, entrepreneurial spirit, and pioneer legacy makes us a natural choice for those seeking the freedom to push the boundaries of technology.”
Utah’s pioneers were front and center at an event unveiling the new brand. Governor Spencer Cox, legislative leaders and industry executives celebrated the descendants of Utah’s original Space Port Committee, which was created by the Utah State Legislature in 1971 to conduct feasibility studies that would position the state as a potential site for space shuttle launches with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. While the shuttle program was eventually awarded to Cape Canaveral, Florida, the effort laid the groundwork for the vibrant aerospace and defense ecosystem that exists in Utah today.
Professors and researchers from the University of Utah led the committee’s efforts in 1971, and the university continues to play a pivotal role in cutting-edge aerospace and defense research today. This was evidenced by the major announcements at 47G’s brand unveiling by University of Utah President Taylor Randall.
President Randall announced the official launch of the Utah Network for Integrated Computing and Semiconductor Research and Education (UNICOS), founded by University of Utah’s Electrical and Computer Science (ECE) Professor Hanseup Kim with help from other ECE faculty members. The organization, which consists of statewide partnerships between higher education institutions, governmental bodies, and members of private industry, will help develop Utah’s semiconductor workforce and increase its access to key technological infrastructure.
“47G members represent a constellation of Utah’s leading companies, suppliers, educational institutions like the University of Utah, and state representatives who are at the forefront of developing and deploying world-leading, next-generation technologies,” said former Congressman Chris Stewart, 47G chair. “We are successfully charting an ambitious course to become ‘America’s Deep Tech Frontier.’”
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About 47G
47G convenes, promotes, and advocates for aerospace and defense companies. Want to learn more? Visit our website at 47.org and follow us on LinkedIn and X.