Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Rolls-Royce, FlightSafety International and RTX have established the Georgia Aerospace & Defense Alliance (GADA), a statewide organisation aimed at strengthening the sector through strategic collaboration and advocacy.

The aerospace and defence industry is Georgia’s second largest and its top export category, with more than $57.5 billion in annual economic impact and around 200,000 people employed in related roles.

GADA will be based at Mercer University in Macon. Ember Bishop Bentley has been appointed executive director, with Jay Neely serving as inaugural chair and T. Rogers Wade as special advisor to the board.

Bentley previously held senior roles at Middle Georgia State University, where she led efforts to expand aviation education and infrastructure. She also served with the Georgia Department of Economic Development and in the office of Governor Nathan Deal.

“I’m honoured to lead the Georgia Aerospace & Defense Alliance at a moment of such momentum and opportunity,” says Bentley. “Georgia has long been a national force in aerospace and defense. Through GADA, we will bring together industry, education and government to ensure we remain competitive, innovative and forward-looking in every aspect of this critical sector.”

“The creation of the Georgia Aerospace & Defense Alliance represents a strategic investment in the future of one of Georgia’s most essential industries,” says Neely. “With Ember’s proven leadership in workforce development and industry advancement - and the strong support of founding members like Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Rolls-Royce, FlightSafety International and RTX - the Alliance is uniquely positioned to strengthen collaboration, attract investment and ensure Georgia remains at the forefront of aerospace and defense innovation.”

GADA will begin immediate work in support of growth across the industry, focusing on advocacy, workforce development and innovation.