UNH to Host Inaugural Space Expo on October 28-29
The University of New Hampshire (UNH) is set to host the inaugural Northeast Space, Technology, Trade, and Research (STTAR) Expo on October 28 and 29. This event marks a significant milestone for the university as it welcomes Ramy Rahimi, the new vice president for research and development, who aims to bridge the gap between academia and New Hampshire’s advanced technology manufacturing sector.
Rahimi, who previously worked at NASA’s Langley Research Center, expressed enthusiasm about his new role at UNH, stating, “This feels like home. This feels like I’m ready to run before I can walk.” His immediate focus will be to leverage the Expo as a platform to network with manufacturers and promote UNH’s research capabilities.
The exposition, organized by the New Hampshire Aerospace and Defense Consortium (NHADC), provides a unique opportunity for local manufacturers to collaborate and enhance their competitiveness with larger states like Texas and California. NHADC Executive Director Randy Makee emphasized the collective strength of the Northeast’s aerospace and defense industry, which encompasses nearly 40% of the nation’s defense industrial base.
Makee highlighted UNH’s historical contributions to space research, dating back to 1952, when the university initiated cosmic ray measurements on Mount Washington. He believes that the Expo will showcase New Hampshire’s rich legacy in space research and its potential to influence the industry going forward.
With the backing of the New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA), the event is expected to draw over 500 attendees, strengthening the manufacturing sector that contributes $7.5 billion to the state’s economy. For more details on the expo, visit nhadc.org.
