47G Utah Aerospace & Defense (47G) has appointed Kori Ann Edwards chief strategy officer. Edwards has over three decades of public and private-sector experience in economic development, strategic leadership, programme development and stakeholder engagement. Most recently, Edwards served as the managing director of strategic initiatives for the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO), where she developed the soon-to-be-released Gameplan 2034, the State of Utah’s economic vision for the 2034 Winter Olympic Games.
As 47G’s chief strategy officer (CSO), Edwards will oversee the 47G Institute, which was established after last year’s merger between 47G and the Utah Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Initiative (UAMMI). The merger has already boosted the state’s economy, accelerated the development of advanced technologies and elevated the state’s role in protecting national security. Edwards, a founding UAMMI board member, brings an extensive understanding of critical minerals and advanced manufacturing to 47G. With over 80% of Utah’s advanced materials supporting aerospace and defence manufacturers, Edwards’ expertise will be key to the success of the Institute.
As CSO, Edwards will also support the development of Project Alta, a 47G initiative that seeks to create a well-functioning transportation system in the air that connects seam-lessly with Utah’s transportation system on the ground. The initiative aims to expand ex-isting drone package delivery to more Utah communities, utilise drones for cargo transport, and establish regional air taxi service that move people by 2034. In addition, with her ability to adeptly navigate the policymaking process, Edwards will serve as the organisation’s legislative liaison, working closely with state legislators and members of Congress to advance policies that strengthen a thriving aerospace and defence ecosystem in Utah.
“Kori Ann is a leading advocate for Utah’s aerospace and defence companies and has been instrumental in the industry’s success. Throughout her career, she has worked in many important positions, including serving on our board of directors,” said Aaron Starks, 47G president and CEO. “She understands our organisation and the fundamental role we play in making Utah a destination for emerging technology that will shape the industry for decades to come.”
Edwards’ results-driven and people-focused approach is evidenced by her successful professional career. During her time at GOEO, Edwards led the agency’s COVID-19 response, overseeing the rapid distribution of $200m in relief funds to provide much-needed support to Utah businesses during the pandemic.
Prior to her service at GOEO, Edwards worked as senior vice president and chief operating officer at Logistics Specialties, Inc (LSI), a services provider that has secured an eye-popping $475bn in federal contracts for over 3,100 clients. During her 20-year tenure at LSI, Edwards instituted and managed the company’s economic development division, overseeing more than $40m in revenue allocation.
“I have had a strong career in the aerospace and defence industry and am passionate about the continued growth and prosperity of this critical ecosystem in Utah,” said Kori Ann Edwards, 47G CSO. “I am eager to apply my expertise in economic development and strategic leadership to my work at 47G. The organisation’s efforts are fundamental to the success of Utah’s economy, and I’m honoured to be a part of that.”
