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Claudia Devitt, Sr Manager, Marketing and Communications
(321) 638-2000
CDevitt@SpaceCoastEDC.org

“Ensuring U.S. Leadership in Space”

EDC Advocates for National Space Exploration

Brevard County, Fla (May 16, 2016) - The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC) has joined leading space industry associations such as the Space Foundation, Space Florida and the Satellite Industry Association in the drive to educate congressional leaders on the critical role of the U.S. space program. Long-term support of our space program benefits the nation’s economy, security, leadership and high-quality American jobs.

“The Space Coast has made tremendous progress building upon our inherent launch legacy and aerospace business sector following the retirement of the Space Shuttle program,” stated Lynda Weatherman, president & CEO of the EDC. “Going forward, it is critically important that Congress and the new President work together on a bipartisan basis to ensure America remains a leader across the broad spectrum of space-related civil, commercial and national security development.”

Ensuring U.S. Leadership in Space, a white paper developed by 14 leading U.S. Space organizations, was recently endorsed by the EDC Board of Directors for use as a primary communication tool regarding the challenges and requirements for U.S. space leadership. “This white paper underscores the importance of government and private sector investments in the advancement of space exploration,” stated Joe Mayer, director, government relations – FL, Lockheed Martin and Chairman of the Aerospace, Aviation & National Security Council of the EDC. “Our nation needs a commitment to predictable budgets and continued support for innovative public-private partnerships; this paper provides the facts for supporting a robust program.”

On May 11, 2016, participants in the EDC annual Washington, D.C. community leaders trip had the opportunity to speak directly with Space Coast congressional leaders and discuss the role of the U.S. space program. “Our constituency presented a unified message directly to our elected officials demonstrating the importance we have placed on gaining their support.” stated Weatherman.

Investments in space programs have been critical to our nation, through advancements in science, creation of new technologies and inspiring generations of Americans to study science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). To learn more about the need for continued investment in our nation’s space programs, download the white paper at ensuringspace.org.

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About the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast
The Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast (EDC) is dedicated to attracting new business and investment and expanding existing industry throughout the Space Coast, influencing change on government laws and regulations affecting economic development, promoting the Space Coast to encourage new investment, supporting efforts of Space Coast military installations, and relaying new programs and procedures to assist manufacturing and high tech companies. The EDC is a private, not-for-profit coalition whose stakeholders are business leaders committed to the economic growth and stability of Florida’s Space Coast. Visit www.SpaceCoastEDC.org.