Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales has been appointed to the executive committee of the Aerospace States Association (ASA). Morales will assume the role of Secretary within the association. The ASA is a national organization focused on advancing aerospace and aviation across member states. Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears of Virginia will serve as Chair, Lt. Governor Josh Tenorio of Guam as Vice Chair, and Mal McGhee of the Poarch Creek Tribe as Treasurer.

Morales expressed his enthusiasm for his new position: “I am honored to be selected to serve on the leadership team of the Aerospace States Association, a nation-wide organization of leaders whose work positively impacts our own state." He highlighted New Mexico's pioneering efforts in the aerospace sector, mentioning Spaceport America as a success story. Morales emphasized ASA's role in promoting STEM education and expanding access to space, stating, "ASA’s commitment to growing STEM education in classrooms, and its push to expand access to space for everyone are major reasons I have been active in ASA since the beginning of my term as Lt. Governor."

The ASA comprises Lieutenant Governors, state legislators, territorial and Tribal government representatives, alongside associate members from aerospace organizations and academia. It is recognized as a non-partisan entity advocating for state-based perspectives in federal aerospace policy development.

New Mexico's aerospace industry not only contributes significantly to employment but also engages actively in community support initiatives such as combating wildfires. Companies like Lockheed have been deploying resources to assist with fires in New Mexico and California.

Morales noted that innovation within New Mexico’s aerospace sector extends beyond established firms: “Not only established companies are making waves in New Mexico’s aerospace industry." He pointed out that startups and educational institutions play crucial roles by developing new technologies and training future professionals.

For further information about ASA's initiatives, visit their website at www.aerostates.org.