SUU and NASA Launch Statewide Hub to Train Utah’s Next-Generation Aerospace Workforce
Published: November 05, 2026 | Read Time: 3 minutes
Southern Utah University (SUU) joined community leaders, educators, and industry partners on Monday, Nov. 2, to officially celebrate the launch of the Utah Aerospace Hub, supported by the NASA State Hubs grant. Held in the Hunter Alumni Center, the launch party marked the beginning of the statewide initiative designed to build and connect the skilled technical workforce ecosystem throughout Utah.
Supported by NASA's Office of STEM Engagement under the Next Gen STEM initiative, SUU stands as one of just seven higher education institutions nationwide chosen to establish a regional workforce center. Serving as the primary host for Utah, the university leads a statewide coalition uniting high school Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways, regional technical colleges, and commercial aerospace leaders to pave clear, hands-on avenues directly into technical careers.
"Southern Utah University is proud to lead this effort for Utah," said SUU President Mindy Benson at the event. "Connecting students with practical, on-the-job experience has always been core to our mission. Teaming up with NASA allows us to expand those opportunities across the state, bringing education and industry together so our graduates are ready to lead in vital technical fields."
The hub focuses on preparing students for essential, skilled technical roles - including machinists, welders, electricians, and advanced manufacturing technicians - that support national space missions, defense innovation, and Utah's expanding commercial aerospace economy.
"Gathering with our partners in Cedar City today makes one thing clear: Utah's students are ready to rise to the moment," said Melinda Pfundstein, SUU executive director of Community and Workforce Development. "This hub isn't just about technical training; it's about meeting students where they are, surrounding them with real mentors, and handing them the keys to family-sustaining aerospace careers right here at home."
Through direct employer hiring and interview agreements tied to industry-validated credentials, the Utah Aerospace Hub bridges classroom instruction with immediate job opportunities. Working alongside 47G as lead partner, as well as early local partners including American Pacific, RAM Aerospace, Intergalactic, and Align Precision, the hub engages industry leaders directly to pinpoint workforce gaps and shape training curriculum, ultimately creating direct career connections for students. By coordinating with school districts across southern Utah, as well as postsecondary partners such as Utah Tech University and Southwest Technical College, the initiative ensures students can explore high-tech careers early and transition seamlessly into the workforce.
"Every major mission in space depends on the dedication and precision of skilled technical workers here on the ground," said NASA Associate Administrator Elaine Ho. "Through this $10.5 million national initiative, we are working hand-in-hand with SUU to remove barriers and connect technical classrooms directly with industry employers. It's about building a dependable pathway where Utah students can see their hard work turn into real, lasting careers."
The Utah Aerospace Hub is already actively engaging educators and employers to build out certification pipelines and technical training cohorts across Utah. To learn more about available technical pathways, employer partnerships, or upcoming training programs, visit suu.edu/prodev.
About SUU Community & Workforce Development
Southern Utah University's Community & Workforce Development department bridges academia and industry by delivering targeted technical training, professional certifications, and career pathways designed to meet the evolving demands of Utah's workforce. By collaborating with regional educators, industry partners, and government agencies, the department empowers individuals with practical skills while driving economic growth across the state. For more information: visit suu.edu/prodev or email prodev@suu.edu or call (435) 865-8529.
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