Governor Ivey Makes the Case for Alabama to Train America’s Next Generation of Space Leaders, Launches Bid for U.S. Space Academy

MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday announced Alabama is entering the competition to become the home of the proposed United States Space Academy, putting forward Huntsville as the state’s preferred location to educate and prepare America’s next generation of space leaders.

Governor Ivey has submitted Alabama’s initial response to the Presidential Commission on the United States Space Academy, chaired by NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. The response builds on Alabama’s longstanding leadership in space exploration, national defense, research and workforce development.

“Alabama helped send America to moon, and we are ready to help prepare the Americans who will take us even further,” said Governor Ivey. “With Space Command Headquarters soon coming to Huntsville, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, Space Camp and generations of aerospace expertise, Alabama brings an exceptional foundation to this competition. We are making a strong case for the United States Space Academy to call the Rocket City home.”

The state’s effort brings together leaders from state and local government, higher education and Alabama’s space and defense community to present a coordinated case for Huntsville.

“Huntsville’s legacy in space exploration is more than just our history – the city is a living, thriving engine for America’s future,” said Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle. “From pioneering the Saturn V rocket to advancing next generation propulsion and defense technologies, the Rocket City has always answered the nation’s call with inspiration and innovation. With world class STEM education pipelines, a highly skilled workforce and unmatched collaboration across our partners on Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville stands ready to shape the next chapter of America’s leadership in space. The U.S. Space Academy belongs in a place where innovation is in our DNA, and that place is Huntsville.”

Huntsville’s concentration of federal, military, academic and industry expertise positions Alabama to support the academy’s mission of developing scientists, engineers, astronauts and other leaders who will advance American interests in space. The region’s record of innovation spans the Apollo program and through today’s space exploration and national security missions.

“Alabama has never lacked the ingenuity or determination to take on a mission of national importance,” added Governor Ivey. “With President Trump’s leadership charting a bold course for America’s future in space, we would be proud to help build an academy that strengthens our nation’s leadership for generations to come.”

The official pitch from Governor Ivey and Alabama comes just a day ahead of President Donald Trump’s visit to the state.

# # #