Colorado aerospace industry faces risks of losing competitive edge

A report commissioned by the Colorado Chamber Foundation indicates that the state’s aerospace and defense industry may be losing its competitive edge. While the sector has historically outpaced the U.S. average growth, industry leaders warn that the state is “coasting on momentum” and that historical advantages are dissipating.

Stakeholders expressed concerns that the business climate is eroding and that the industry faces competition from southern Sun Belt states. Executives from major firms, including Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, were briefed on findings suggesting that while firms remain in the state, job growth is beginning to level off.