Learn how AIAM works to promote Michigan’s aerospace industry through our annual Legislative Day
AIAM held our annual Legislative Day on Tuesday, February 20th in Lansing. We started out the day with an early morning breakfast between AIAM board members, the Aerospace Caucus, and Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II, which was hosted by McAlvey Merchant & Associates. The AIAM Board of Directors were able to use this time to highlight the goals of the association and the large impact Michigan’s aerospace industry is making on the state. This set the tone for the entire day allowing some legislators the chance to get to learn more details on the industry and its needs before meeting with AIAM members throughout the day.
We then took 28 members, led by the McAlvey Merchant & Associates team, to 38 meetings with Representatives of the Michigan House of Representatives and Senate in their private offices. AIAM members were able to speak about issues the aerospace industry is facing today with legislators who represent the area local to their business. The conversations left us feeling hopeful and inspired.
Among the key topics discussed was the advocacy for the R&D Tax Credit, which has passed through the Senate and moved on to the House for final review. The tax credit will help promote Michigan’s aerospace industry to attract & retain talent. The event not only provided a platform for AIAM to voice our concerns but also facilitated meaningful dialogue and collaboration between industry professionals and lawmakers.
At lunch, AIAM invited the legislators to come down to Heritage Hall at the State Capitol Building where AIAM member companies were exhibiting. It was great to see many of the Aerospace Caucus members along with other legislators take an interest and stop by to meet with local aerospace companies.
We look forward to next year and continuing the narrative that the aerospace industry is here, in Michigan, and hungry to grow its talent, companies, and projects!
Thank you to our Legislative Day exhibitors!
Michigan Economic Development Corporation
Pratt & Whitney
Weldaloy Specialty Forgings
Liebherr Group
Eaton
TRIUMPH
