Duchesne and Uintah Counties hosted successful events introducing the Utah aerospace community to Basin families and professionals with the potential of future economic opportunities. Companies such as Lockheed Martin made the journey, impressing all who attended. Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that is among world leaders in developing advanced technology systems. The company was just awarded a $148 million dollar contract from the U.S. Navy to advance electronic warfare technologies. The visit from Lockheed Martin and other organizations as well as STEM education representatives was eye opening when considering the future potential if these companies established a presence in the Basin. According to Uintah Transportation Special Service District Chairman Duane Shepherd, this visit demonstrates “the importance of providing transportation infrastructure for not only oil and gas companies but for those companies that may be spurred by such a visit.” Officials from both Duchesne and Uintah County were hopeful the aerospace events this week could open future economic doors. With that in mind, “we have to look long term in providing infrastructure; 5, 10, 20 years out,” says Shepherd. “We can’t be short sighted even with the recent downturn in the economy and stop building infrastructure. Doing so may prevent future opportunities for our kids and grandkids…We need to provide an environment that grows industry and makes it easier for them to operate while providing safe roads for residents.”
