Monday, June 18, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Promotes Missouri as Global Competitor in Aerospace and Defense Industries
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt is standing out as Missouri's strongest advocate before Aerospace and Defense Industry Leaders. The governor is taking part in the 47th International Paris Air Show, a high-profile international trade fair that showcases innovative civilian and military aerospace products.
"I am committed to ensuring Missouri remains a top competitor in the global economy and is positioned to attract and retain the technology, engineering and science innovation jobs that are the basis for a strong economic future," Blunt said. "Advocating for Missouri workers and Missouri jobs helps our state stand out in the highly competitive international aerospace and defense industry."
The governor is attending the Paris Air Show where he will represent some of Missouri's top tier companies, such as Boeing, Essex, and GKN. Blunt will attend meetings, advocate Missouri products and tout Missouri opportunities. The bi-annual show is a premier opportunity to showcase Missouri products and innovation to an international audience. It features almost 2,000 aerospace and defense exhibitors and attracts corporate executives and military officials from the world's leading economic nations. Blunt is one of four American governors expected to attend.
Blunt has led the state effort to ensure Missouri remains competitive for the technology based jobs of the global economy. His METS (Math, Engineering Technology, and Science) initiative has for the first time in the state's history facilitated an open dialogue among stakeholders to ensure students have the tools they need to succeed in METS careers. Blunt has also championed new funding to expand science and math based after school programs, encourage students to take math and science AP courses and exams, and implement 100 technology classrooms in 100 different schools.
The governor will return to Missouri Wednesday. The Hawthorn Foundation, a nonprofit, nonpartisan statewide organization formed to assist both public and private efforts in promoting Missouri's economic development initiatives will sponsor the governor's trip.