Sponsor Statement for HB 208

The Alaska Aerospace Development Corporation is a young organization that has vigorously pursued its responsibility to forge a new industry and new opportunities in Alaska. Its first task was to bring talented people with significant experience in the aerospace industry to Alaska as employees and consultants. Through their efforts the AADC has won federal contracts, generated significant industrial interest, and brought Alaska, international recognition as a potential center for this major growth industry. The probability for success is extremely high and the prospects for Alaska's economy are exceptional.

AADC's focus has been on two projects. The development of a rocket launch complex on Kodiak Island and the location of satellite ground stations in the Fairbanks area. AADC has also pursued educational opportunities throughout the state, as well as global warehousing and manufacturing possibilities in Anchorage.

The present board of directors of the AADC has served the State of Alaska extremely well, in directing the purposes of the corporation. The professional, technical and scientific expertise provided by the University of Alaska members of the board, have guided the start-up phase of this undertaking.

As we move into the construction, marketing and operational phase of this endeavor, it is imperative that the board be restructured to include specific members of the Alaska business community. These individuals should have experience in finance, marketing analysis and an understanding of economic development, based on their existing or previous participation in private enterprise.

This bill also adds another member who has special experience regarding federal regulatory procedures and policies involving space or operational experience. I feel this would lend more credence to the space industry and gives the board more expertise as we move into the operational phase.

In addition, this bill calls for the chair and vice-chair to be selected from among the board of directors of the corporation.