Ohio is home to a vast space industry that includes federal laboratories performing cutting edge research, one-of-a-kind testing facilities for new technologies, and companies that create unique materials and components that withstand the rigors of space exploration.
Today at The Ohio Aerospace Institute, stakeholders in Ohio’s space ecosystem gathered for the purpose of exploring avenues to expand Ohio’s impact in the overall industry. The round table featured representatives from OAI, economic development organizations, government entities such as JobsOhio and NASA, and key industry players such as ZIN Technologies (powered by Voyager).
The round table revolved around sharing ideas and works in progress from trade associations, companies, and government representatives. Topics such as ecosystem opportunities, workforce, and start-up support were addressed. With each topic, Keri Zipay, Team NEO, was quick to ask…what else is needed to move this area forward, with the goal of keeping everyone’s thoughts toward the next phase of Ohio’s growth.
Key takeaways from the group included the introduction of the OnRamp Hub: Ohio Program by Mark Bartman, Maj Gen (Ret.), VP for Advanced Development for Parallax Advanced Research. OnRamp Hub is run through the Great Lakes Mission Acceleration Center contract by the Department of Defense to connect the private sector with the DoD to resolve specific challenges. Michael Dustman from JobOhio shared several initiatives that are in the works by the state to connect the ecosystem, as well as provide funding for university research and workforce development.
The afternoon wrapped with action items to address and ideas to deliberate until the next quarterly round table.
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About Parallax Advanced Research
Parallax Advanced Research is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit research institute that tackles global challenges through strategic partnerships with government, industry, and academia. It accelerates innovation, addresses critical global issues, and develops groundbreaking ideas with its partners. With offices in Ohio and Virginia, Parallax aims to deliver new solutions and speed them to market. In 2023, Parallax and the Ohio Aerospace Institute formed a collaborative affiliation to drive innovation and technological advancements in Ohio and for the Nation. Ohio Aerospace Institute plays a pivotal role in advancing the aerospace industry in Ohio and the nation by fostering collaborations between universities, aerospace industries, and government organizations and managing aerospace research, education, and workforce development projects. More information about both organizations can be found at the Parallax and OAI websites.