Industry supports jobs, economy in West Michigan and nationwide

WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives passed a resolution today (H.Con.Res. 167) recognizing the contributions of the aerospace industry to the U.S. economy. The resolution, introduced by Congressman Vernon J. Ehlers (MI-03), also recognizes September 16, 2009 as National Aerospace Day. The date marks the 90^th anniversary of the Aerospace Industries Association.

      “Workers in the aerospace industry have contributed to many scientific and technological breakthroughs in the United States, including space flight, meteorological forecasting, and national security, as well as civil and commercial aviation,” said Congressman Ehlers. “It is an important part of our economy, directly employing around 831,000 people and supporting more than 2 million jobs in other fields. I am proud to recognize this industry and its important contributions to our nation.”

      The most recent data on aerospace employment show that 5,535 people were directly employed by the industry in Michigan in 2006.

      The bi-partisan resolution passed today by a voice vote. It recognizes the hard work and contributions to society of aerospace industry employees, the industry’s economic impact in the United States, and its contribution to groundbreaking scientific and technological achievements.

      Below is the text of Congressman Ehlers’ statement on the bill, which he delivered on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives today. An audio file (.mp3) of the statement can be found at this link:  

http://www.house.gov/ehlers/hosteduploads/090909-Aerospace_Resolution_floor_statement.mp3

“As the author of this resolution, and co-chair of the House Aerospace Caucus (along with Congressman Norm Dicks), I rise in strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 167, which supports the goals and ideals of creating a National Aerospace Day, in addition to recognizing the contributions of the aerospace industry to the history, economy, security, and educational system of the United States.

“As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Apollo moon landing this year, it is appropriate that we pass a resolution recognizing the important achievements made possible by the aerospace industry.  In addition to landing on the moon, some other noteworthy achievements include leading the International Space Station, innovating developments in meteorological forecasting, national defense, communications, and creating the Global Positioning System. 

“The United States also maintains the largest, most complex, and safest aviation system in the world, comprising of more than 230,000 general aviation aircraft which use nearly 19,000 small and regional airports, and more than 7,000 commercial passenger and cargo airline aircraft which utilize over 500 commercial airports.  Our aviation system, especially business aviation, allows U.S. companies to stay competitive because our workers can be more productive and efficient.  

“The United States’ aerospace industry is a powerful, reliable source of employment, innovation, and export income, employing more than 840,000 people in the United States and supporting more than two million jobs in related fields.  Although unemployment remains high, especially in my home state of Michigan, these high-value, good-paying jobs continue to be in demand because of the shortage of qualified workers.  

“Therefore, in order for the United States to remain at the forefront of aerospace development, we must do a better job of educating our children in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (commonly referred to as STEM education).  Flying and space exploration remain a powerful inspiration that captures the interest of young people, and I applaud the efforts by the aerospace community to get involved with kids and schools to nurture this interest and improve our STEM education programs.

“I hope my colleagues will join me in honoring the aerospace industry by supporting the creation of a National Aerospace Day on September 16th.  I urge all Members to vote for H.Con.Res. 167.”