Monday, June 18, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Promotes GKN's Aerospace Innovation, Missouri-related Products
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt today met with GKN officials to promote the Missouri business' role as a first tier supplier of aircraft and aero engine manufacturers. The governor joined GKN officials and a group of Missouri businesses attending the 47th International Paris Air Show to help promote their products and tout Missouri opportunities.
"Missouri manufacturing facilities and Missouri workers have a direct and invaluable role in the international aerospace and defense industry," Gov. Blunt said. "As I meet with companies, like GKN, and work to promote products and opportunities that have a strong tie to Missouri, I continue to be impressed by our state's dedicated workforce and the power of innovation. I will continue to work to promote science, math, technology and engineering opportunities so that we may remain a strong competitor in the global economy."
While at the Air Show, Blunt met with Sir Kevin Smith, Chief Executive, GKN and Jim Gibson, Vice President Sales & Marketing. They discussed GKN's role in the aerospace industry and the contribution the company is making in many of the important new U.S. and European civil and military aircraft under development.
"The Paris Air show provides an unparalleled opportunity to showcase the many ways we can offer exceptional expertise and provide our customers optimum solutions, unbound by limits of capabilities," said Jim Gibson, GKN Vice President Sales and Marketing. "As a member of both the Missouri and global business communities it is invaluable to have leaders, like Gov. Blunt, committed to innovation and new opportunities in the aerospace and defense industry and advocating for the opportunities only we can offer."
In addition to advocating for GKN, Governor Blunt is meeting with Essex Industries and Boeing on the trade mission. Blunt will also meet with other companies in an effort to recruit them to set up operations in Missouri.
The Hawthorn Foundation, a nonprofit, nonpartisan statewide organization formed to assist both public and private efforts in promoting Missouri's economic development initiatives is sponsoring the trade mission.