The United States Air Force (USAF), Lockheed Martin, and CU-Boulder are collectively working to design, procure, and install a collaborative R&D development environment to include: 1) remote sensing data analysis and archiving capabilities, 2) shared cloud computing resources (e.g. AWS) for remote access, and 3) computing infrastructure and services for lab development activities. The USAF, Lockheed Martin, and other key industry partners have invested heavily in the capture of relevant datasets via satellite-based remote sensors and in signal processing, data fusion, analytics, and visualization associated with interpreting data for effective decision making. The CU Boulder Grand Challenge Initiatives fuse strengths in earth, space and social sciences with new technologies and partners to address broad-ranging environmental and natural resource challenges of interest to Industry (topics related to the earth’s surface, atmospheric research, weather and climate studies, and environmental resource management). CU-Boulder provides remote sensing, earth sciences, and analytics expertise that is complementary to USAF and Industry partner capability. For more information on this collaboration and a full list of partners, visit the Tap Lab website.
Collaboration in Industry Awards Luncheon
On behalf on Colorado Business Roundtable, we want to say thank you to everyone who sponsored, attended, and supported the first annual Collaboration In Industry Awards Luncheon. This event was a major success and we appreciate everyone who came.
We want to say thank you to our sponsors Lockheed Martin, CAP Logistics, ICOSA Media, AT&T, Colorado Workforce Development Council, ConocoPhillips, Parker Area Chamber of Commerce, Colorado State University-Global, and IBM.
We also want to say thank you to our table sponsors OEDIT, Colorado Succeeds, FirstBank, Junior Achievement, Molson Coors, Newmark Knight Frank, Parker Area Chamber of Commerce, Space Foundation, University of Colorado-Boulder, Vectra Bank, Vital for Colorado, and Wells Fargo.
Then of course we want to say thank you to our speakers Jacqueline Hinman, CEO of CH2M, Governor John Hickenlooper, and Jim Clifton, Chairman and CEO of Gallup who gave amazing speeches.
Congratulations to all the winners of the Collaboration In Industry Awards.
Aerospace Winner - USAF Space and Missile Systems Center
Education & Workforce Winner - Colorado State University-Global
Energy Winner - Clean Energy Collective
Engineering & Construction Winner - Crossroads Commerce Park
Farming & Agriculture Winner - Colorado FFA Foundation
Financial Services Winner - FirstBank
Government & Economic Development Winner - Denver Regional Council of Governments
Health & Wellness Winner - Colorado Public Health/Parks & Recreation Collaborative
Hospitality & Lodging Winner - Sage Hospitality
Manufacturing Winner - OIA Sustainability Working Group
Technology Winner - Colorado Technology Foundation
Tourism & Outdoor Recreation - The Historic Hot Springs Loop
Thank you to our sponsors!
Redistricting Initiative Proponents: Stop the Games, Let's Reform Redistricting
News Release
October 19, 2017
For Immediate Release
Contact: Aaron Cohen ([email protected])
Redistricting Initiative Proponents: Stop the Games, Let’s Reform Redistricting
Fair Districts Colorado Proposes Additional Reform Measures
(DENVER, CO) – Following a statewide discussion generated by the submission of redistricting ballot initiatives in early September, Fair Districts Colorado today filed three new proposals with the Office of Legislative Council. After more than a month in the public eye, the committee behind the initiatives says it’s listening.
“Like we’ve always said, we’re open to constructive comments that give the redistricting processes back to the voters. We’re grateful for the input from dozens of individuals and groups across the state in recent weeks,” said former State Representative Kathleen Curry. “We will reform redistricting so that the power is with the people and not corrupt political power brokers. All we ask is that people check their partisan credentials at the door to find the fairest process for Colorado communities.”
Every ten years, congressional and state legislative district boundaries are redrawn to adjust for population and demographic shifts. Colorado has a checkered history of redistricting abuses, with claims of gerrymandering launched by both parties.
Joining Curry as a designated representative of the proponents for the three new initiatives is former Deputy Secretary of State Bill Hobbs. “The redistricting process in Colorado is broken,” said Hobbs, who, like Curry is an unaffiliated voter. “The partisans who currently draw maps have a huge conflict of interest. Instead of drawing competitive districts and trying to keep communities whole, they are primarily motivated by a single goal: maximizing the number of districts their party wins. Partisan political power should not be the underlying motive of map-drawers. These measures will help end gerrymandering by placing the process for drawing maps into a balanced, independent commission that utilizes nonpartisan staff to draw maps using neutral, fair criteria, operating transparently.”
Fair Districts Colorado filed its original language in September, followed by a unanimous Title Board ruling that approved title language. Yesterday, the Title Board unanimously reaffirmed its previous approval at a re-hearing.
The new initiatives make the following adjustments:
· Require the approval of eight of 12 commissioners to approve any final map, including the affirmative vote of no fewer than two independent commissioners. The previous measures required the affirmative vote of only one independent to approve any final map.
· Require all appointees to the commission to go through an application process, not just the independent appointees.
· Stipulate that appointees from the two largest political parties are made by the Senate Majority Leader, the Senate Minority Leader, the House Majority Leader and the House Minority Leader. Prior measures stipulated that the two political parties would appoint the partisans.
· Adjusts the appointment process for the independent commissioner by utilizing a random drawing of four from among 20 recommendations made by a panel of senior or retired judges.
· Clarify that the public has the opportunity to comment on maps or propose ideas for maps at any time.
Unfortunately, due to her travel schedule, Toni Larson is unable to serve as a proponent for these new measures. Proponents are required to appear before Legislative Council and the Title Board on a prescribed schedule that she cannot meet.
Ms. Larson, First Vice President of the League of Women Voters and, with Curry, a designated representative of the proponents for the initial two measures filed in September, made the following statement in support of these additional reform initiatives:
“Representatives from the League of Women Voters of Colorado have been involved in this effort from day one, starting in January. The new measure adopts a number of positive recommendations. Working with other members of this effort, the League has helped reach out to all lawmakers and several community, business and minority groups, soliciting input from all corners.”
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Colorado Energy and Manufacturing Forum
Consumer Energy Alliance and the Colorado Business Roundtable teamed up to host the Colorado Energy and Manufacturing Forum to discuss current energy issues and the importance of responsible energy development in the context of jobs, the economy, and U.S. competitiveness.
We had Senator Michael Bennet and Senator Cory Gardner discuss their views on the energy and manufacturing industry. Along with hearing from Tom Bugnitz from Manufacturer Edge, Tim Heaton from CAMA, and Jeff Popiel from GeoTech Environment Equipment & Leptron Unmanned Aircraft Systems about manufacturing. Then we heard from R. Scott Winner from Vestas, Taylor Henderson from Colorado Solar Energy Industry Association, Nadia El Mallakh from Xcel Energy, and Sam Knaizer from BP about the energy industry.
Please see these news articles from the event.
Colorado Senators Express Bipartisan Pushback Against Anti-Fossil Fuel Agenda
It would be a 'travesty':" Colorado senators agree (and disagree) on energy policy
Colorado Senators React to Controversial Solar Tariff
http://denver.cbslocal.com/2017/10/10/senators-react-solar-tariff/
Colorado SBDC TechSource unveils a small business Cybersecurity Program
DENVER - Wed., Oct. 11, 2017 -
The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will launch a statewide Cyber Security program in October 2017. This program will ensure that small businesses throughout the state have access to relevant and up-to-date education and free one-on-one consulting on how to best protect their assets and investments. Forty-three percent of small businesses owners fall victim to a cyber attack. The SBDC aims to help small businesses protect themselves from these unforeseen threats which can potentially cripple their business and livelihood. Consulting and classes will range from cloud computing to securing technology in order to meet government procurement and compliance standards.
The Pikes Peak SBDC will manage and operate the program on a statewide basis. The Pikes Peak SBDC one of four SBDC Technology TechSource Smart Zones operating out of Colorado Springs, Colorado. The SBDC recently received a $50,000 supplemental grant, in addition to sponsors and other funding sources) in order to more effectively implement this new initiative. Aikta Marcoulier, Executive Director of the Pikes Peak SBDC, encourages all Colorado small business to utilize the new resources, "Cybersecurity for your business is as essential as drinking water for your health. The SBDC Cyber Program for Small Business has been created to ensure your business health is in top notch condition. Don't put off your cyber training, it's easy, it's fun and it's affordable."
The Cyber Security threat for small business owners is fast becoming a national concern. The National Association of Small Business Development Centers recently pushed through legislation which will further assist small business owners in defending against cyber threats. Three amendments to the small business act have been passed through the House and are on the way to Senate for approval: H.R. 3002, H.R. 5064 and S. 1428. These amendments task SBDCs across the nation with prioritizing cybersecurity training and consulting in addition to ensuring that the SBDC has access to, and utilizes the top talent and expertise in the field.
The Cybersecurity Smart Zone will be deploying the following educational events:
- Virtual Training
- Innovative Business Roadtrips
- Onsite workshops, industry roundtable
- One-on-one consulting
Cybersecurity Small Business Experts Include:
- Colorado Computer Support
- Conundrum Creek Consulting
- Corvus Technologies, LLC
- Department of Homeland Security
- Firma IT Solutions & Services
- Murray Security Services & Consulting
- Rim Technologies, LLC
- The Cybersecurity Institute for Small and Mid-Sized Business (CiSMB)
- Toggle Industries, LLC
- And many more!
The upcoming cybersecurity educational events and resources can be viewed at www.pikespeaksbdc.org/cyber.
About the Colorado SBDC Network
The Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network is dedicated to helping existing and new businesses grow and prosper in Colorado by providing free and confidential consulting and no-or low-cost training programs. The SBDC strives to be the premier, trusted choice of Colorado businesses for consulting, training and resources. The SBDC Network combines the resources of federal, state and local organizations with those of the educational system and private sector to meet the specialized and complex needs of the small business community.
About the Colorado SBDC TechSource Program
The Colorado SBDC TechSource program is a two-tiered program focusing on: (1) assisting technology venture companies with commercialization, access to funding, and business development (2) assisting any and all companies in the utilization of technology to enhance business outcomes including cyber security, CRM systems training, and website development and training
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"Colorado Experience Road Show" Returns Thursday with Screening of "Uranium Mania" in Grand Junction kicking off 9-stop statewide tour
DENVER - Oct. 12, 2017 - The popular "Colorado Experience Road Show" presented by The Colorado Office of Film, Television and Media (COFTM) and Rocky Mountain PBS returns for the 2017 season with the premiere screening of "Uranium Mania" at the Grand Junction Museum of the West Thursday, October 12, at 6:00 p.m., kicking off a 9-stop statewide tour celebrating Colorado history and original television content.
The Emmy award-winning series, "Colorado Experience," produced by Rocky Mountain PBS explores the people, places and events that have shaped Colorado. Each ½ hour episode presents Colorado history in an entertaining, quick-paced and educational format featuring interviews with experts and historical photos from various libraries and museums across the State.
"There are so many amazing stories (in Colorado)," said Julie Speer, creator of the series and director of culture content for Rocky Mountain PBS. "We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to bring them to television so everyone can learn the rich history of Colorado."
"Colorado Experience" is currently the highest rated, locally produced show on Rocky Mountain PBS. Season Five of "Colorado Experience" premieres Oct. 19 at 7:30 p.m. on Rocky Mountain PBS. COFTM provided incentives for seasons one and two of the show.
"Rocky Mountain PBS does a tremendous job capturing the history of a community while creating television that is entertaining and educational," said Donald Zuckerman, Colo. film commissioner.
The Road Show will include screenings of new "Colorado Experience" episodes exploring Colorado's deep history of uranium mining; Paleo-Indian archaeological discoveries; frontier doctor, Doc Susie Anderson; and the state's early involvement in the world of mountain biking.
Each screening will include a community conversation with producers of the show and local historians. All screenings are free and open to the public. For more information, please visit www.rmpbs.org/coloradoexperience.
Tour Schedule:
Oct. 12, 2017 - Grand Junction
6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
Museum Of The West
462 Ute Ave., Grand Junction
Screening Episode: Uranium Mania
Q & A Session
Oct. 16, 2017 - Nucla
6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
First Park Community Center
1045 Main St., Nucla
Screening Episode: Uranium Mania
Q & A Session
Oct. 17, 2017 - Durango
6:30 p.m., Doors Open 6:00 p.m.
The Powerhouse Science Center
1333 Camino Del Rio, Durango
Screening Episode: Uranium Mania
Q & A Session
Oct. 25, 2017 - Winter Park
6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
Adolfs Event Center & Tavern
1008 Winter Park Dr., Winter Park
Screening Episode: Dr. Susie Anderson
Q & A Session
Dec. 6, 2017 - Burlington
6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
Midway Theater and Cultural Events Center
446 14th St., Burlington
Screening Episode: Amusements
Q & A Session
Jan. 15, 2018 - Crested Butte
6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
Center For the Arts
606 6th St., Crested Butte
Screening Episode: Mountain Biking
Q & A Session
Jan. 16, 2018 - Gunnison
6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
Western State Colorado University
600 Adams St., Gunnison
Screening Episodes: Mountain Biking | Paleo Indians
Q & A Session
Jan. 17, 2017 - Salida
6:00 p.m., Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
Salida Steam Plant Theater
220 W Sackett Ave., Salida
Screening Episodes: Ghost Towns | Mountain Biking
Q & A Session
Jan. 24, 2018 - Alamosa
6:00 p.m., Doors Open at 5:30 p.m.
Adam State University
208 Edgemont Blvd., Alamosa
Screening Episode: Settling the Sand Dunes
Q & A Session
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Leeds Business Confidence Index Reports Overall Positive Expectations, But Cooling Optimism Ahead Of Q4
Leeds Business Confidence Index Reports Overall Positive Expectations, But Cooling Optimism Ahead Of Q4
Oct. 2, 2017 - The Leeds Business Confidence Index (LBCI) fell ahead of the fourth quarter of 2017, reflecting lower expectations for both the end of the year and the first quarter of 2018 despite all individual components of the index remaining in positive territory. The overall index came in at 56.5 for Q4 2017 and 55.3 for Q1 2018 (Note: an index value of 50 equals neutral).
The report, which is prepared by CU Boulder’s Business Research Division at the Leeds School of Business, captures Colorado business leaders’ expectations for the national economy, state economy, industry sales, profits, hiring plans and capital expenditures. A total of 284 qualified panelists responded to the survey.
For the second consecutive quarter, the LBCI’s overall outlook remained positive even as expectations cooled for individual indicators. The index fell 3.2 points from last quarter, but still remained higher than last year’s figure, gaining 3.5 points from Q4 2016. Panelists’ expectations were weakest for the national economy, but were buoyed by stronger expectations for the state, industry sales and industry profits.
“We are seeing a larger decline in optimism about the national economy than we are about the state economy,” said Richard Wobbekind, Executive Director of the Business Research Division. “The state economy is still considered healthy and a larger percentage of respondents believes it is expanding rather than contracting.”
The LBCI reflected modest declines in expectations across a number of economic indicators. Sales and profit expectations ranked among the highest of the six survey components, but both still slipped ahead of Q4 2017. Capital expenditures and hiring also fell as growth expectations slowed.
Colorado’s job market remained a bright spot as the state continued to exhibit strong employment growth. Jobs increased 1.8 percent year-over-year in August 2017, the 14th-fastest rate in the country. Meanwhile, the state unemployment rate continues to outperform the nation as a whole, coming in at just 2.5 percent.
Colorado’s low unemployment rate, however, could make it difficult for employers to fill vacant or new positions, leading more than one-quarter of survey respondents to name it their top economic concern. Housing was the second most frequently mentioned issue, specifically high real estate prices and a lack of affordable housing that could discourage potential employees from relocating to Colorado.
For more information and to read the full report, visit the Business Research Division.
Supporting Today's Workers and Preparing the Workforce of Tomorrow
The Consulate General of Canada in Denver, the Office of the Governor of Colorado, and the Colorado Business Roundtable hosted an event addressing urgent issues in Colorado and Canada: supporting displaced workers and preparing the workforce of the future in a transforming economy.
Speakers addressed trends that are accelerating change in the Coloradan and Canadian economics, successful approaches to support workers who lost their jobs while they re-train for other opportunities, and best practices in preparing K-12 and higher education in Colorado and Canada for the jobs of tomorrow.
Speakers and panelists, in order of appearance:
Jeff Wasden, CEO of COBRT
Erik Mitisek, Chief Innovation Officer of Colorado and CEO, IMAgine Analytics.
Jared Nichols, futures strategist and author of Waypoint: Mapping the Future of Talent in the Age of Automation.
Stephanie Veck, Director, Colorado Workforce Development Council
Michael Strople, President, Enterprise Networks, Zayo Group Holdings
Randy Hoback, Member of Parliament, Prince Albert Riding
Sarah Heath, PhD, State Director-Assistant Provost - Colorado Career and Technical Education
Kim Hunter Reed, Executive Director, Colorado Department of Higher Education
Shaun Thorson, CEO, Skills Canada
Donald Austin, Vice-President, Commerce City Refinery, Suncor
John W. Hickenlooper, Governor of Colorado
Kirsten Hillman, Deputy Ambassador of Canada to the United States
Denver Opportunity Youth Initiative
Our youth are tomorrow’s talent:
Today there are close to 9,000 youth in the Denver metro area who are talented and motivated, but lack the opportunity and support to reconnect to school and work. Generally 16 to 24 years old, they’re called opportunity youth. We call them tomorrow’s business leaders and innovators.
We get more done together:
We’ve all faced challenges in our career – and always had someone to lend a hand. At the Denver Opportunity Youth Initiative we help young adults overcome those challenges. And we connect employers with these talented youth.
We’re looking for businesses committed to developing our workforce and matching the right talent to the right job. You’re committed to helping get these youth on a path to careers through work experiences, mentorship or training.
Your participation is an investment into the long-term success of Colorado’s economy. Let’s keep Colorado competitive and find a solution to our growing workforce gap.
By 2020, 74 percent of our jobs in Colorado will require some post-secondary credentials
Roughly 54 percent of Coloradans have post-secondary credentials
Want to develop tomorrow's talent?
We offer you a personal, tailored experience:
You’ll work one-on-one with Talent Pipeline Director Lorena Zimmer to:
- Identify available positions in your company and the necessary skills needed
- Identify core competencies that youth need prior to an internship or job with you
- Identify jobs that can be filled immediately vs. jobs that you can tailor for opportunity youth (jobs can be full-time, job shadows, internships or other work experience)
- Identify the youth who are ready for your work opportunities
Learn more here at http://denveroy.org/
Colorado Business Roundtable Urges Senator Bennet to Support Federal Regulatory Reform Legislation
[DENVER, CO] — A coalition of chambers of commerce, trade associations, and businesses, representing the interests of businesses and individuals across the state of Colorado sent a letter to Senator Bennet today urging him to support important regulatory reform legislation pending in the U.S. Senate.
S. 951, the Regulatory Accountability Act of 2017 (RAA), which was introduced with bipartisan support from Sens. Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Heidi Heitkamp (D- N.D.), Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), and Joe Manchin (D-W.V.), would modernize the Administrative Procedure Act, the nation’s regulatory playbook, which has been virtually unchanged since it was enacted in 1946.
The coalition urged Senator Bennet to support the RAA, which would increase transparency, integrity, and accountability in the rulemaking process at federal agencies. The bill would also allow Colorado businesses the opportunity to participate in the rulemaking process earlier on for the most costly rules in order to help grow state and local economies. You can view the full letter here.
Earlier this year more than 600 business groups — including trade associations and state and local chambers of commerce — sent a letter to U.S. Senate leadership urging them to take up RAA. The Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs later passed the legislation, and now it awaits consideration by the full U.S. Senate. The House of Representatives passed the RAA with a bipartisan vote of 238-183 on January 11, 2017.
COBRT Endorses Tax Reform. Join the Colorado Tax Reform Coalition.
President Trump visited Springfield, Missouri and laid out his plans for reforming our nation’s outdated, complex, and uncompetitive tax system. The President’s plan is built around an America First tax system that is focused on jobs, increasing wages and wealth in America, and restoring the American dream.
The Business Roundtable conducted a survey of their CEOs, and ninety percent responded that delaying tax reform will harm the U.S. economy by causing slower economic growth, hiring, and capital investment. Fifty-seven percent of the responding CEOs say delaying tax reform means their company will delay capital spending, the investment that drives jobs, and growth. Fifty-six percent say their companies will delay hiring plans.
President Trump believes lower taxes and higher wages will result in a better life for all Americans and make the American dream more accessible than ever before. The Colorado Business Roundtable enthusiastically endorses a tax reform plan that accomplishes four goals- simplification of our tax code that is fair to all Americans, reforms that lead to job creation and higher wages, provides tax relief for working, middle class, and paves the way for repatriation of funds parked off-shore back to the United States.
Our current tax code has increased in length and complexity so that ninety-four percent of U.S. taxpayers needed some form of help to file their returns, according to National Taxpayers Union, and ninety-one percent of small businesses hired a professional to do their taxes, according to the National Federation of Independent Business. Taxpayers spend over six billion hours annually complying with the tax code, according to the IRS’s Taxpayer Advocate Service. Complying with current tax code, one that is six time longer today as it was in 1955, places a $262 billion burden on the economy.
Colorado’s economy depends on 892 U.S. companies that actively operate internationally, competing in in global markets on a daily basis for inputs, capital, and customers. These globally engaged companies directly and indirectly contributed $148.8 billion to the Colorado economy in 2013 from a Business Roundtable report. Focusing on tax reforms that benefit Colorado workers, is simple and fair, and sets a competitive rate that drive job creation and higher wages is something every Coloradan should champion.
“If we don’t have tax reform sometime this or early next year, a lot of the business investment that’s been predicated on getting tax reform done will have been poorly made,” said J.D. Foster, senior vice president and chief economist at the U.S. Chamber. “Business investment will likely contract significantly, and we will have a significant period of economic weakness in my opinion.”
Our economy is healthy when we grow at roughly 3.5%. Since 2007, it has been below 2.5% consistently. Significant and generational tax reform is at the core of President Trump’s plan to return to over 3% growth. 3% growth rate will yield a nominal gross domestic product that is $16 trillion larger, generate $2.9 trillion in federal government revenue, and raise wages and salaries of American workers by $7 trillion, according to administration estimates.
Fixing our broken tax code for families, small businesses, workers, and job creators is the single most important action we can take to grow our economy and help the middle class get ahead. If we are successful in this once-in-a-generation opportunity to make taxes simpler, fairer, and lower for hard-working Colorado families, we can encourage entrepreneurs to reinvest in their businesses and American companies to bring back jobs and profits trapped overseas.
“CEOs overwhelmingly believe that tax reform is the most effective way to put more Americans to work in a stronger, growing economy. The Trump Administration’s recent release of its tax proposals was a significant step forward as they work with Congress on pro-growth reform legislation. By demonstrating the importance of tax reform to business and the U.S. economy, these survey results confirm that tax reform is a critical priority if we are to grow the economy and create jobs and opportunity,” said Business Roundtable President and CEO Joshua Bolten.
Colorado Business Roundtable strongly encourages our congressional delegation, leadership, and the administration to pass meaningful and permanent tax reform. If you are interested in joining business leaders, chambers, and associations in advocating for a fairer, simpler, and more competitive rate, please contact us at [email protected] or visit www.cobrt.com/taxreform.
Jeff Wasden, President
Colorado Business Roundtable
Lockheed Martin Invests $350 Million in State-of-the-Art Satellite Production Facility
Preliminary construction is underway on a new, $350 million Lockheed Martin facility that will produce next-generation satellites. The new facility, located on the company's Waterton Canyon campus near Denver, is the latest step in an ongoing transformation, infused with innovation to provide future missions at reduced cost and cycle time.
The new Gateway Center, slated for completion in 2020, includes a state-of-the-art high bay clean room capable of simultaneously building a spectrum of satellites from micro to macro. The facility's paperless, digitally-enabled production environment incorporates rapidly-reconfigurable production lines and advanced test capability. It includes an expansive thermal vacuum chamber to simulate the harsh environment of space, an anechoic chamber for highly perceptive testing of sensors and communications systems, and an advanced test operations and analysis center. The Gateway Center will be certified to security standards required to support vital national security missions.
"This is our factory of the future: agile, efficient and packed with innovations. We'll be able to build satellites that communicate with front-line troops, explore other planets, and support unique missions," said Rick Ambrose, executive vice president of Lockheed Martin Space Systems. "You could fit the Space Shuttle in the high bay with room to spare. That kind of size and versatility means we'll be able to maximize economies of scale, and with all of our test chambers under one roof, we can streamline and speed production."
Lockheed Martin expects the construction effort to employ a total of 1,500 contractors during the three-year construction phase. Lockheed Martin has added more than 750 jobs to its Colorado workforce since 2014, and currently has about 350 job openings in the Denver area alone. This building will accommodate that recent growth and new future projects. State and local officials in Colorado have helped strengthen the aerospace industry and foster an environment that helps aerospace companies thrive and grow.
"Aerospace is an engine of innovation and growth for America, and we're investing in infrastructure and technology to help strengthen the nation's leadership in military and commercial space and scientific exploration," added Ambrose. "We're transforming every aspect of our operations to help our customers stay ahead of a rapidly-changing landscape. The Gateway Center, coupled with advancements in 3D printing, virtual reality design and smart payloads, will deliver game-changing innovations while saving our customers time and money."
Lockheed Martin's Waterton Canyon campus has been a hub of space innovation since the 1950s, with more than 4,000 employees and a wide range of industry-leading design, manufacturing and test facilities on site. Spacecraft currently in production at the site include the Air Force's GPS III satellites, NASA's InSight Mars lander, NOAA's GOES-R Series weather satellites, and commercial communications satellites.
Companies selected by Lockheed Martin for the project include Hensel Phelps as the general contractor, Matrix PDM Engineering and Dynavac for thermal vacuum chamber design and construction, and ETS-Lindgren for anechoic chamber design and construction.
Read more in the Denver Business Journal
Learn more about the Gateway Center on Lockheed Martin's site
Colorado Immigration Reform Coalition Responds to the RAISE Act and Calls for Modernized System That Harnesses the Power of Immigrants
James Scimecca, [email protected]
Jesse Dougherty, [email protected]
Colorado Immigration Reform Coalition Responds to the RAISE Act and Calls for Modernized System That Harnesses the Power of Immigrants
Coalition members cite immigrant contributions and call for a different approach that empowers foreign-born workers instead of limiting them
Denver, Colorado — Today, the Colorado Immigration Reform Coalition responded to the RAISE Act, new legislation sponsored by Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and David Perdue (R-Ga.), and called for a revised solution that harnesses the economic power of foreign-born workers in the U.S. economy. The proposed bill was endorsed this week by President Trump, and called for a substantial limit to legal immigration.
While the coalition agrees on the need to modernize our broken immigration system with merit-based solutions, the bill contains a broad misconception that immigrants are hindering the wages of American workers. In fact, research has shown time and time again that foreign-born workers often act as key drivers of innovation and job creation, and do their part in filling the workforce gaps that the American economy faces with its ongoing aging crisis. Instead, the coalition is urging Congress to take an approach that harnesses the power of immigrants to create a streamlined process that attracts the best talent, builds the workforce needed to support America’s industries, and ultimately lays the groundwork for greater economic growth.
“Broadly closing our doors to immigrants does not help any of the challenges we face in today’s world economy. Since its founding, the United States has been a land of opportunity and inclusive of immigrants, their families and entrepreneurs creating the greatest economy that it is today.” said Clarence Low, president and CEO of the Asian Chamber of Commerce of Colorado. “We need to work together to improve our immigration system but do so in a way that doesn’t limit a large section of our economic contributors. They have been integral to our country’s success and will be so once again in our future.”
Jeff Wasden, President of the Colorado Business Roundtable and Coalition Member added: “Creating an economy that strengthens the wages of American workers should always be a central priority of Congress. But it would be a mistake to associate declining wage growth with immigrant contributions. Foreign-born workers are influencing the economy in the opposite direction – they are bringing in innovation that creates new businesses and opportunities that directly benefit American citizens. Their successes and entrepreneurial spirit should undoubtedly be part of the system’s solution. We need to work together to update our outdated immigration system.”
The state coalition is sponsored by New American Economy (NAE), a bipartisan organization that supports immigration reforms that help both American workers and immigrants build a better economy. The coalition utilizes local leadership roles and NAE’s detailed research on immigrants to create a constructive platform to discuss immigration reform with Congress.
Jeff Wasden, President of the Colorado Business Roundtable and Coalition Member added: “Creating an economy that strengthens the wages of American workers should always be a central priority of Congress. But it would be a mistake to associate declining wage growth with immigrant contributions. Foreign-born workers are influencing the economy in the opposite direction – they are bringing in innovation that creates new businesses and opportunities that directly benefit Americancitizens. Their successes and entrepreneurial spirit should undoubtedly be part of the system’s solution. We need to work together to update our outdated immigration system.”
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About New American Economy
New American Economy (NAE) brings together more than 500 Republican, Democratic and Independent mayors and business leaders who support immigration reforms that will help create jobs for Americans today. Coalition members include mayors of more than 35 million people nationwide and business leaders of companies that generate more than $1.5 trillion and employ more than 4 million people across all sectors of the economy, from Agriculture to Aerospace, Hospitality to High Tech and Media to Manufacturing. Learn more at www.NewAmericanEconomy.org.
Innovation + H2O = Colorado's Future
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Business Roundtable Member Briefing and Reception
Colorado Business Roundtable would like to thank Bill Miller of the D.C. Business Roundtable (BRT) for presenting at the BRT Briefing and Reception event. We would also like to thank all of those that attended this event. We hope you enjoyed yourself and learned a little bit about the issues going on at D.C.
In attendance were some great BRT and COBRT partner companies: IBM, Anadarko, Walgreens, Ball Corp, Aetna, Deloitte, BNSF Railway, and others.
The Reception was attended by Sec. of State Wayne Williams, Canadian Consul General Stephane Lessard, Rep. Paul Lundeen, Rep Lawrence, representatives from Mexican Consulate, Congressman Coffman, Jim Ogsbury with Western Governors and more.
As key takeaway points, we saw the importance of timely, relevant business updates on tax reform, regulatory reform, health care bill, infrastructure improvements, and ATC privatization. In addition, with change in leadership at the BRT, it was a great chance to hear firsthand about the new leadership and focus for BRT moving forward.
Bio for Bill Miller
Bill Miller is a Senior Vice President at Business Roundtable and oversees all outreach to Capitol Hill and the Administration on behalf of the association of chief executive officers of leading U.S. corporations.
Miller brings more than two decades of experience on Capitol Hill and representing business interests in Washington, and joins the Roundtable most recently from international corporate communications firm Brunswick. While at Brunswick, Miller's focus included financial/investor communications, crisis work, stakeholder engagement, and global positioning on behalf a number of U.S. and international corporations. He also assisted several global investment firms on potential and actual crisis situations.
A veteran lobbyist, Miller previously led the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Political Affairs & Federal Relations efforts and served as National Political Director, advising the business association’s CEO and overseeing its legislative, advocacy and lobbying tactics. He coordinated and executed political and grassroots operations and implemented lobbying campaigns on many of the top issues facing the business community during his 12 years at the Chamber. He regularly appeared on CNN, CNBC, Bloomberg, FOX, ABC World News and PBS.
Miller also served as Chief of Staff to Representative Constance A. Morella where he oversaw her legislative and political agenda from 1994 to 1999.
A successful entrepreneur, Miller has started several businesses including a bank, restaurants, and a television pilot, and financed several technology start-ups. Miller holds a B.A. degree from the University of Maryland and a law degree from American University. He resides in Washington, D.C.
COBRT's Team Is Growing!
COBRT is excited to be welcoming two new members to the team:
Healthy Vision Month: Vision Health is Essential to Your Overall Health
Coloradans are notoriously active and healthy, known for eating well and exercising regularly. But are they just as diligent about their vision health? Statistics would indicate the answer is probably not, since eye care is often overlooked as an essential component of overall health.
Fortunately, May is Healthy Vision Month and an ideal time to visit your eye care professional for that vision exam you may have been delaying or to update your current eyewear. Comprehensive eye exams ensure your eyes are healthy and free of serious eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration, and guarantee you get the vision correction you need to see properly. In addition, eye exams can identify damaging chronic conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, early in the disease progression.
Unfortunately, cost often prevents many of us from seeing our eye care professionals. But it doesn’t have to be this way, which is why as Executive Director of the National Association of Vision Care Plans (NAVCP) I am committed to ensuring everyone in Colorado has access to affordable, quality vision care.
According to a recent study commissioned by NAVCP, “Vision patients were most likely to cite cost as the number one barrier to care.” It’s no surprise, then, that enrollment in vision care plans has increased nearly 20 percent over the last five years. Or that 80 percent of all employers now provide managed vision care benefit options to their employees. Or that patients are four times more likely to seek professional eye care services from an eye care professional when offered vision benefits that cover an eye exam, as well as eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Increased managed vision care plan enrollment has led to lower costs for consumers, more patients for eye care professionals and healthier vision behavior. A win-win for patients, providers and employers. After all, healthy people are more productive both at work and at home.
We must maintain these positive, healthy vision behavior trends going forward. Unlike insurance for catastrophic health care and emergencies, vision care is predictable. At some point – right around age 40 or so – each of us will require vision correction, even if we are healthy in every other way. And let’s not forget the importance of proper vision to our children since 80 percent of childhood learning through age 12 is visual.
NAVCP is speaking up about the value of vision care benefits during Healthy Vision Month in part because a proposed bill recently introduced in the U.S. Congress, if passed, would put up barriers to vision care. Patients and employers would be denied the cost transparency they need to make informed buying decisions, which could cause them to pay more for glasses, contacts and optometric services. And the bill would remove the rights of individual eye care professionals to decide how and if they want to contract with managed vision care plans to best serve their patients. Considering the proven, positive connection between vision benefits and healthier vision behavior, that is the last thing that eye patients, eye care professionals and employers in Colorado and across the country need.
I encourage you to celebrate Healthy Vision Month by ensuring you and your family have the vision care plan that best meets your needs, and to put that plan to use by visiting the eye care professional of your choice. I guarantee that you will see immediate benefits as a result. Now, see to it.
Julian Roberts is the Executive Director of the National Association of Vision Care Plans (NAVCP).
Strategic Partnership Alliance has been expanded to now include OPIC, EXIM bank and beyond.
CHAMBER OF THE AMERICAS (COTA)
"Committed to Economic Empowerment and Justice"
For further details contact:
Gilberto (Gil) Cisneros, Chairman and CEO
Tel: 303.462.1275 [email protected]
www.chamberoftheamericas.com
Carlos Figueroa, CEO, Greater San Jose Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Tel: 408. 886-1145 [email protected]
www.gsjhcc.org
Denver CO – San Jose CA – BREAKING NEWS!
Chamber of the Americas Strategic Partnership Alliance with Carlos Figueroa, CEO of the Greater San Jose Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, as been expanded beyond OPIC to include, EXIM bank and other financial institutions and organizations that support development throughout the International Community.
We are ready, positioned and prepared for emerging market transactions and look forward to your requests.
The door for business throughout the Americas and beyond is wide-open.
The Pathway to Economic Empowerment and Justice is to… build a Bridge of Hope!
Finding Colorado’s Next Governor
COBRT and the Denver Business Journal are teaming up to help introduce you, the community's leaders and constituents, to some of the 2018 gubernatorial candidates for the state of Colorado.
This interview series will educate us all on the people and the ideas that may make up our state's next executive leadership. The series is also designed to foster conversation, so please feel free to contact COBRT and get involved in this exciting civic process.
What will you ask our next governor?
Contact COBRT to submit your questions or use #FindingCOGov on social media!
MAY 31
Doug Robinson
Republican
JUNE 30
Noel Ginsburg
Democrat
JULY 31
George Brauchler
Republican
AUG 31
Stephen Barlock
Republican
SEPT 29
Donna Lynne
Democrat
OCT 30
Matthew Wood
Unaffiliated
NOV 30
Vic Mitchell
Republican
DEC 29
Mike Johnston
Democrat
JAN 31
Cary Kennedy
Democrat
MAR 30
Walker Stapleton
Republican
APR 30
Greg Lopez
Republican
MAY 31
Jared Polis
Democrat
Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting
Three Colorado Companies Win Prestigious Honor of Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting
Denver - (May 15, 2017) - Colorado companies Meadowlark Optics, Project C.U.R.E. and VAIREX air systems were announced today as the three winners of the 2017 Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting for their contributions to the Colorado economy through international trade.
"Meadowlark, Project C.U.R.E. and VAIREX are shining examples of how exporting can help expand businesses, increase profits, and grow Colorado's economy," said Governor John Hickenlooper. "From fuel cells to polarization products to medical supplies, exporting provides access to 95 percent of the world market outside our borders. We are honored to recognize these companies for their commitment and wish them continued success."
Meadowlark Optics (Frederick, Colo.) is an international thought leader in light-based technologies and has an extensive international portfolio, exporting to 30 countries. Meadowlark, established in 1979, supplies a variety of industries with innovative polarization solutions and engineering services. Meadowlark has been a valuable contributor to the infrastructure of the Colorado Photonics Industry (CPIA) since it initially launched in 1997, and has financially sponsored international scientific symposiums and performed worldwide speaking engagements to raise global awareness of the problem-solving solutions that light-based technologies can provide. Exports currently represent over 59 percent of Meadowlark's sales.
Project C.U.R.E. (Centennial, Colo.), the world's largest distributor of donated medical supplies and equipment, exports these products to hospitals and clinics in more than 133 countries around the globe. Project C.U.R.E. has been an industry leader in developing new ways to export medical supplies to resource-limited communities across the globe, including creating an efficient and accurate inventory system, improving supply chain management, and providing expert management of logistics. Exports currently represent over 96 percent of Project C.U.R.E.'s sales.
VAIREX air systems (Boulder, Colo.), an international technical leader in fuel cell air systems, manufactures advanced air blower systems based on the company's patented breakthrough technology. VAIREX is focused on blowers for fuel cells in the 1-30 kW power range, which represent over 90% of all the fuel cells sold in the world today. Currently, VAIREX exports to customers in 17 countries in the Americas, Europe and Asia and exports represent 56 percent of VAIREX's sales. The company is poised for the rapidly growing global fuel cell industry.
The Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting was first given in 1970 and recognizes economic growth through international business. Winners will be formally recognized tomorrow at World Trade Day, the region's premier international trade event. This year's World Trade Day theme is Containers to the Cloud: Trade as Goods, Services & Knowledge.
Awardees will receive $500 worth of consulting services through the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade's (OEDIT) Global Consultant Network. The program connects qualifying Colorado companies to global opportunities and market education.
Colorado exported $7.5 billion in products in 2016, and an estimated $14 billion in services. The Excellence in Exporting Award recognizes this contribution to the state's economy by highlighting noteworthy accomplishments by Colorado exporters. More information about OEDIT's export grant programs can be found here.