Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Rolls-Royce, FlightSafety International, and RTX today announced the formation of the Georgia Aerospace & Defense Alliance (GADA), a new, statewide organization dedicated to advancing Georgia’s aerospace and defense industries through strategic collaboration and advocacy. 

As Georgia’s second largest industry and the state’s No. 1 export category, the aerospace and defense industry contributes significant value, innovative power and industrial strength to the state economy. With a combined economic impact of more than $57.5 billion each year and approximately 200,000 Georgians employed in aerospace-related occupations, the state’s aerospace industry is a true national and global pacesetter.

The formation of the Alliance marks a pivotal step in advancing this high-growth industry, backed by founding members Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Rolls-Royce, FlightSafety International, and RTX — each internationally recognized, industry-leading companies with significant workforce, manufacturing and investment resources in Georgia. 

The Georgia Aerospace & Defense Alliance will be housed at Mercer University in Macon, a strategic location that underscores Macon’s commitment to statewide economic development, research and innovation. Ember Bishop Bentley has been appointed to serve as GADA’s executive director, effective immediately, while Jay Neely, an industry veteran and chair of the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), will serve as the Alliance’s inaugural chair.  Additionally, T. Rogers Wade, former president and CEO of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation and longtime statewide aerospace advocate, has been appointed as Special Advisor to the Board of Directors.

Bentley most recently served as chief of staff and vice president, External Affairs, at Middle Georgia State University (MGA), home to Georgia’s flagship School of Aviation. Under Bentley’s leadership, MGA secured more than $50 million in public and private investment to expand aviation education and infrastructure over the past five years. Her efforts significantly enhanced the university’s visibility and strengthened the pipeline of highly skilled aviation professionals entering the workforce.  Bentley also served as a deputy commissioner, International Affairs for the Georgia Department of Economic Development and served in Governor Nathan Deal’s office as special assistant to First Lady Sandra Deal.

“I’m honored to lead the Georgia Aerospace & Defense Alliance at a moment of such momentum and opportunity,” Bentley said. “Georgia has long been a national force in aerospace and defense. Through GADA, we will bring together industry, education, and government to ensure we remain competitive, innovative, and forward-looking in every aspect of this critical sector.”

“The creation of the Georgia Aerospace & Defense Alliance represents a strategic investment in the future of one of Georgia’s most essential industries. Aerospace and defense are key drivers of our state’s economy, workforce, and global presence,” Neely said. “With Ember’s proven leadership in workforce development and industry advancement — and the strong support of founding members like Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Lockheed Martin, Rolls-Royce, FlightSafety International, and RTX — the Alliance is uniquely positioned to strengthen collaboration, attract investment, and ensure Georgia remains at the forefront of aerospace and defense innovation.”

GADA will begin working immediately, sustaining growth and innovation across Georgia’s aerospace and defense industries through coordinated advocacy, workforce development and industrial collaboration. The Alliance will also play a critical role in ensuring Georgia remains a premiere destination for aerospace innovation, investment and talent development.