Madison Chamber Cuts Ribbon on a Bigger, Brighter Future
Morning thunderstorms gave way to clear skies as if on cue for a ceremony christening the new Madison Chamber of Commerce offices. By Mike Easterling - Page 2
NASA
From the Moon to Mars:
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Seeks Small Business Partners for Future Missions
This half-day event, which typically occurs twice a year, gave small businesses access to NASA leaders, as well as industry contacts from various companies and partners that interface with the space organization. Representatives from Team Redstone and other government agencies were also on hand to meet with attendees. By Katie Holt - Page 10
ADDITIONAL STORIES
• Sit Down With Success: A Conversation with Veronica Cram of InSight Strategic Solutions By Heather Price • Page 3
• From Classrooms to Careers: Toyota Invests $4.2 Million in Huntsville City Schools for STEM and Student Support By Katie Holt • Page 7
• Strong: North Alabama Ready for Golden Dome, SPACEPORT, and More By Mike Easterling • Page 14
Madison Chamber Cuts Ribbon on a Bigger, Brighter Future
Morning thunderstorms gave way to clear skies as if on cue for a ceremony christening the new Madison Chamber of Commerce offices.
And though the autumnal equinox had moved the calendar into fall, summer had something left to say. A bright, hot sun cooked the parking lot for a ribbon-cutting in front of the new address at 230 Hughes Road C.
Despite the heat and blinding sun, the celebration proceeded under the cool and vibrant direction of Madison Chamber President Michelle Epling. She had jokes and was a hard act to follow for the luminaries gathered for the event.
“I have the true honor and privilege of being president of the Madison Chamber of Commerce,’’ she said. “A chamber of commerce that is truly built on collaboration.’’
The chamber moved from a 900-square foot space to a 42,000 square foot “home,’’ as Epling called it, complete with co-working space, meeting rooms and “a beautiful mural in partnership with Arts Alliance.’’
Epling’s list of people to thank was a long one. Among them were Madison Mayor Paul Finley, Madison County Commission Chair Mac McCutcheon, State Senator Arthur Orr, and Congressman Dale Strong (AL-05).
There were many others in attendance including state representatives Phillip Rigsby, Parker Moore, and Marilyn Lands. State Senator Tom Butler couldn’t attend. Alabama Senator Katie Britt sent a representative.
“I have the privilege of representing part of the City of Madison, the southern part, the western part, but it’s good to be with you,’’ Orr said. “Thank you for coming out. There’s nothing else I could add. Michelle is a dynamo. She has done a tremendous job for the chamber.
“The chamber can be such a tool in this community to help it grow for years to come, working with City Hall right down the road here and
your best days are ahead,’’ he said before later adding, “I’m glad we can all come together because moments like this remind us that all is possible when people, businesses, and community leaders work hand in hand.’’
McCutcheon recalled a celebration at Hexagon when he was named commission chairman and the swag bag contained Snicker’s candy bar, one of his favorite treats.
“And so I thought, hey, they know me,’’ he said.
“This is a very, very exciting day and we are looking forward to opening these doors. Michelle, Chamber Board Chair DeWayne Howell, the board, I just want to say thank you for what you’re doing for Madison County.
“This is great. We are successful here in Madison County because of our partnerships. Mayor Finley, thank you for the work you’ve done being a partner right there standing side by side with us as we work together. But this is a very, very special day.’’
Strong (R-Monrovia) hails from the area and is a Sparkman High School graduate. He’s advanced from being a member of the county commission to that body’s chair to U.S. Representative.
“You start thinking about where we are today,’’ Strong said. “I think about the late 80s when I was in high school, the police department
was downtown, about four police cars, and where we’ve come to today. That right there is what this city is all about – you let people spend their dollars locally, and then that makes our school system stronger.’’ Strong wound down the speaker
portion of the ceremony urging the citizens of Madison to embrace collaboration moving forward.
“This shows what you can do when it’s a regional approach,’’ he said. “Look at what’s happened – 4,700 new jobs coming with Space Command, and many of them are going to be your neighbors. When we talk about Space Command, that’s a team effort also because it starts with the cities and the region.
“Our labor force comes from 17 counties in North Alabama and we’re the lead employer for three counties in Southern Tennessee. But it just shows what we do when we work together. That's what this is all about. I still believe, Senator (Orr), as you said, our finest hours are still ahead,” concluded Strong.
The Madison Chamber of Commerce is keeping in step with the progress with its move. w
By: Mike Easterling /
Photo by Mike Easterling
A Conversation with Veronica Cram of InSight Strategic Solutions
For Veronica Cram, numbers aren’t just spreadsheets and balance sheets. Numbers tell a story. As founder and CEO of InSight Strategic Solutions, she helps business owners discover what their numbers are really saying and turn that data into insight and growth.
What began as a one-woman operation in 2020 has grown into a national consulting firm, headquartered in Huntsville, with a team of consultants spanning Alabama to New Jersey and serving more than 40 clients across industries and states.
Cram recently sat down with the Huntsville Business Journal to share how her experiences as an “Army brat” shaped her approach to business and how she finds balance by giving herself permission to say “no.”
What do you enjoy about owning your own business?
I enjoy that there’s only one person I can be mad at, and that’s myself.
When you’re working for someone else, disagreements can always come with a “I know better” mentality, no matter who you are. Now, if I’m working during fall break, guess who’s to blame? Me. I said yes, so it’s on me. There’s only one person responsible for every decision, and that’s me.
How do you balance personal and professional life?
Every single day, you’re making choices: “Am I saying yes to this, or am I saying yes to that?” There’s only so many yeses to go around.
Also, it’s important to understand that no is a full sentence. You don’t need to justify it by saying, “No, I’m doing these other things” or “No, because I'm trying to focus on this.” No is enough. That has been a big lesson for me.
What advice would you give to someone starting their own business?
I’m a big fan of saying: pack for
where you’re going, not for where you came from. If you came from Alaska and you’re headed to Hawaii, you’re not taking the same clothes. A lot of times that means you’re not taking the same people. It means you're not taking the same systems or the same processes. So you have to think about where you're going and make sure you're ready for that.
What is the secret to your success?
Being an Army brat, I moved a lot as a kid and continued moving a lot even as I became a young adult. I'm like a melting pot. I talk with people from all over, all political beliefs, male, female, all industries, all walks of life.
I think that being an Army brat prepared me to be an entrepreneur because I have learned to acclimate, to talk with, and to listen to other people before making assumptions and before speaking. I am able to understand what their problems
By: Heather
sare, what their issues are, and help coach them to get to the answers to solve them.
Sit Down With Success is a feature of the Huntsville Business Journal on entrepreneurs and their keys to success. To read the full story, please visit the Huntsville Business Journal website. w
Price / Photo courtesy of Veronica Cram
President /Publisher
Editor
Writers
Contributing Writers
Photographers
e-mail todd@eventhuntsville.com, or visit us on the web at www.huntsvillebusinessjournal.com For editorial information contact editor@huntsvillebusinessjournal.com
Glaukos Expands to Huntsville with $82 Million Research and Manufacturing Campus
Tom Burns, CEO of cutting-edge eyecare technology company Glaukos of California, made a checklist before seeking a site to build a multimilliondollar research, development, and manufacturing facility.
It was a wish list he gave to his team, who then went on a nationwide search for the right location to build a vanguard institution. He bought in sight unseen, based on their recommendation for a cutting-edge eyecare health operation.
“I gave the charge,’’ Burns told a champagne-toasting group gathered for a groundbreaking on September 25. “Find me a place that has a tremendous technological pedigree, a vibrant business community, a wealth of manpower and resources, and good people that we could work with.’’
Huntsville, and more precisely Cummings Research Park, about a mile and a half from biotechnology and genomic research leader HudsonAlpha Institute for Biology, became the destination.
“This is my first opportunity to visit Huntsville,’’ Burns said, “and I couldn't be more happy and more confirmed in our choice.’’
The usual suspects, and a few new ones, showed up on a warm but pleasant Thursday afternoon to celebrate the groundbreaking for Glaukos’ $82 million investment that will bring 154 full-time jobs to the region by 2030.
Congressman Dale Strong stayed an extra day after ringing in the new Madison Chamber of Commerce location earlier in the week to attend the affair. Fellow U.S. Representative Robert Aderholt was also among the celebrants.
Strong outlined how the city was operating out of its well-known wheelhouse.
“I want to start by welcoming the entire Glaukos team to Huntsville and choosing Research Park to make this their development and manufacturing campus right here in Cummings Research Park, the second largest research park in the United States,’’ Strong said.
“When most people think of Huntsville, they think of rockets, space and defense, and we’re proud of that. But we’re also celebrating today that this
shows there’s a lot more to our story. In Huntsville, research science and medicine thrive.
“It’s a city where innovation of all kinds takes root. Glaukos could have built this facility anywhere, but they chose Huntsville. They chose this community, and that says something powerful about who we are and where we're headed.’’
The facility will be built on 25 acres at the corner of Mark Smith Dr. and Explorer Blvd., at the north end of HudsonAlpha. The agreement includes an option for 15 additional acres for future expansion.
“If you’ve done any reading on us, we’re the first company that pioneered, developed, and created a whole new marketplace called MIGS, micro and basic micro invasive glaucoma surgery
that liberates patients from having to use eye drops,’’ Burns said.
“We’re the first company to come up with long-term, sustained-release drugs that are injected directly into the eye, that last for up to three years, so patients don't have to worry about noncompliance and adherence to their medications.”
He then jumped further into the science frontier.
“We’re looking at things like transdermal medications that go on the lid rather than eye drops, which may treat an extraordinary number of anterior segment ophthalmic diseases,’’ said Burns.
“And we're coming up with small molecules to treat retinal disease that may last – I don't know if anyone here has a colleague or a sibling or a mother
By: Mike Easterling
or father who has age-related macular degeneration – but right now, you have to use these products every couple of months to be able to treat the disease.’’ Please go on.
“We’re looking at products that may last for several months to several years. So pretty extraordinary stuff. We're at the front edge of most things we do. So far, I think we've been relatively successful. One area that we're truly focused on is rare disease.’’
Ash Arellanes for years unknowingly had keratoconus, a progressive eye disease that causes the cornea to become thin and bulge into a cone shape. This distortion of the cornea leads to blurred and distorted vision.
She gave a moving testimonial of how it took nine months after the birth of her first child to actually make out her daughter’s smile, and how Glaukos’ technology provided that after she spent years wandering in a sight-deficient wilderness.
“I can walk beside my children and know the world around us,’’ she said. “I can watch flowers lift their heads towards the sun in the spring. I can watch horizons bleed into color and fade into night.
“I can see enough to carry my children forward, and I am thankful for the doctor who listened, for the science that answered, for Glaukos and their fearless commitment to go first, turning innovation into sight saving so people just like me can watch our children grow.’’
Glaukos is a worldwide pharmaceutical and medical technology leader in ophthalmology focused on developing and commercializing novel therapies for the treatment of glaucoma, corneal disorders, and retinal diseases.
The company is headquartered in Aliso Viejo, Calif.
“Glaukos is not only a company making cutting edge therapies, they’re a partner,’’ Strong said. “They’re investing in people for a brighter future. We celebrate this next chapter in Huntsville’s growth as a hub for research, science, and medicine. On behalf of this community, thank you for choosing Huntsville, and we’re proud to have you here, and we look forward to building that future together.’’ w
/
Photos by Mike Easterling
Glaukos CEO Tom Burns (left) and chair of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce Jeff Samz (right)
From Classrooms to Careers: Toyota Invests $4.2 Million in Huntsville City Schools for STEM and Student Support
On Wednesday, September 17, Toyota Alabama gathered with local leaders to announce a new $4.2 million grant for Huntsville City Schools to expand access to STEM education and strengthen student support across the district.
The announcement was made at the new Huntsville City Schools Center for Technology and represents the latest investment from Toyota's Driving Possibilities initiative. The grant is funded by the Toyota USA Foundation, as well as the manufacturer's Motor North America and Financial Services divisions.
Marc Perry, president of Toyota Alabama, emphasized the collaborative spirit behind Driving Possibilities.
"Through Driving Possibilities, we've been able to bring support and encourage a team-based approach to education. We all play a role in helping the world around us, because we all have a stake in the future," Perry said.
In partnership with Huntsville City Schools and the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber Foundation, Toyota will help provide:
• A STEM coordinator serving the entire school district
• STEM coaches in six elementary and two middle schools to enhance learning across core subjects
• Care Closets in 10 schools (from the Caring Link) will be added to provide teachers with quick access to essentials, including new clothing, school supplies, toiletries, and snacks for students
• Funding for monthly training sessions provided by Second Mile, to increase parent engagement
• Greenpower USA cars for 10 schools to help create manufacturing and project management experience for students
Huntsville City Mayor Tommy Battle delivered remarks at the event, thanking the manufacturer for its partnership.
"By creating hands-on STEM opportunities and addressing educational gaps, Toyota is helping prepare students for the high-demand careers of tomorrow. Their vision is simple, but it's powerful," Battle said.
Battle continued, "When we nurture curiosity and build confidence in our young people, we strengthen the entire
community. Innovation, collaboration, and community are the hallmarks of Huntsville's growth. Toyota has embodied those values for nearly a quarter of a century. This new investment ensures the next generation has the tools and opportunities to carry our city forward."
Huntsville City Schools Superintendent Dr. Clarence Sutton echoed Mayor Battle's gratitude for Toyota's strong support of area students and educators.
"On behalf of our district and our board of education, I want to extend our deepest appreciation to Toyota Alabama, and Driving Possibilities for this incredible $4.2 million investment in our schools," Sutton said.
According to Perry, he and his team at Toyota met with Dr. Sutton to determine specifically what the school district needed.
This grant, in addition to a $6.7 million gift from Toyota in 2023, brings the total for the Driving Possibilities initiative close to $11 million.
The previous grant helped establish the new industrial tech program (INDTECH) at the Huntsville City Schools Center for Technology. The center opened to students this August.
In his comments at the event, Sutton shared the positive results the community has already seen from Toyota's previous investment.
"We've already seen the impact of the very first Driving Possibilities announcement from 2023. With your support, our talent management team expanded our teacher mentoring programs, which limited retention, kept our retention rates high," Sutton shared.
Lyndsay Ferguson, executive director of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber Foundation, emphasized the importance of pairing STEM education with holistic solutions.
"We also recognize that academic success depends on more than just cur-
By: Katie Holt /
riculum. Investments in wraparound support like care closets and parent engagement ensure that every student and every family has the opportunity to fully participate in these transformative experi-
ences," Ferguson said.
Ferguson also noted that these investments benefit not only Huntsville City Schools but also play a vital role in sustaining the overall health and vitality of the region's workforce development efforts.
"Together we're excited that we're building a talent pipeline that begins in the classroom and that extends into every corner of Huntsville's economy," Ferguson said.
Reflecting on the nearly $11 million total investment, Madison County Commission Chairman Mac McCutcheon highlighted the brighter future it offers local students.
"When we look at this grant that Toyota has put in for a total of $11 million, it's giving so many of our young people an opportunity to make their future brighter, to get out here and be what they dream to be," McCutcheon said. w
Photo courtesy of Toyota
Pictured L to R: Madison County Commission Chairman Mac McCutcheon; Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle; Lyndsay Ferguson, Huntsville/Madison County Chamber Foundation Executive Director; Marc Perry, Toyota Alabama President; Dr. Clarence Sutton, Huntsville City Schools Superintendent
American Heart Association Alabama Names 2025 Leaders of Impact in Huntsville: Fundraises to Fight Heart Disease and Stroke
The American Heart Association Regional Office in Huntsville is working to advance heart health across the community.
One of its key efforts is the Leaders of Impact campaign, which unites passionate and community-minded leaders dedicated to making a lasting difference in the fight against heart disease and stroke.
According to the American Heart Association, “heart disease is the No. 1 killer worldwide, and stroke ranks second globally.”
Over the course of seven weeks, each leader works to raise awareness and critical funds to support the AHA’s mission of ensuring every person has the opportunity to live a longer, healthier life.
The last day to support the cam-
paign is Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
These changemakers are using their voices, networks, and resources to inspire others and drive impact in the Rocket City. Their efforts directly support lifesaving research, health education, and community initiatives right here in Huntsville and across the nation.
The 2025 Leaders of Impact Chair, Donna Burns of REMAX Today, said, “As chairperson for this year's Leaders of Impact, I am so impressed with the nine leaders we have chosen. They will be such effective ambassadors for the American Heart Association and all the important work being done in heart health. I can’t wait to see what we achieve!"
The 2025 AHA Huntsville Lead-
ers of Impact are:
• Emily Burnside: REMAX Today
• Clark Dunn: Podcaster
• Morgan Gehrdes: HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology
• Migdalia Gomez: Social Media Consultant and Travel Agent
• John Mark McClelland: Merit Bank
• Angela May: CB&S Bank
• Kaitlynn Roark: Libertas Technologies
• Andrew Smith: Huntsville Explorer
• David Warren: Radiance Technologies
At the end of the campaign, one individual is named Huntsville’s Leader of Impact, but together, every participant plays a vital role in creating healthier tomorrows for all.
By: Katie Holt /
The winner of this campaign will be announced at the 2026 Huntsville Heart Ball. This fundraising event will be held at the Von Braun Center on Saturday, April 11 at 5:30 p.m.
This year’s Huntsville Heart Ball, held in April, was a record-breaking event and fully sold out.
The Huntsville Regional AHA office also holds a yearly Heart Walk to raise funds for the organization. Next year’s walk will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2026. The location is to be determined.
Anyone interested in participating can sign up to start or join a team. Individuals can also participate without joining a group.
Visit the AHA’s Heart Walk website to register or learn more. w
Photo by American Heart Association (Huntsville)
From the Moon to Mars: NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Seeks Small Business Partners for Future Missions
NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) held its 40th Small Business Alliance Meeting on September 25 at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center.
This half-day event, which typically occurs twice a year, gave small businesses access to NASA leaders, as well as industry contacts from various companies and partners that interface with the space organization. Representatives from Team Redstone and other government agencies were also on hand to meet with attendees.
These organizations also exhibited at the event, providing small business representatives with an opportunity to meet with them and ask questions.
Presentations from NASA leaders took place from 8:00 to 11:30 a.m. in the theater at the Davidson Center.
Currently, NASA's primary focus is on its Artemis II mission, which is scheduled to launch to the moon with a crew in February 2026.
During his presentation, Davey Jones, NASA MSFC Center Strategy Lead, stated that the center is actively seeking small businesses to partner with for future Artemis missions, as well as the agency's mission to Mars.
"We are actively seeking partnerships that leverage our unique strengths in propulsion systems integration and advanced manufacturing," Jones said.
Jones noted MSFC's successes this year in collaborating with businesses and organizations outside of NASA.
"Marshall has experienced record numbers of partnerships this year. We have well over 400 active partnerships this year alone from every facet of the community, both industry, academia, and other government agencies, and we're very proud of that," Jones said.
Jones continued, "These partnerships extend our impact, bring in new perspectives, and help us remain agile in a rapidly evolving space economy. Collaboration is essential to staying at the forefront of innovation.”
NASA Office of Small Business Programs Chief of Staff Chuck Williams provided an update on the
current changes within his department, resulting from layoffs and the federal government's retirement package offered this year.
According to Williams, his office shrank from 20 to 14 employees. Although the Small Business Programs Office at NASA is smaller now, Williams wanted to let attendees know that his department is still working diligently.
"Rest assured, every day these folks are really working and fighting for small business opportunities, whether subcontract or prime contracting," Williams said.
Williams acknowledged the strain on his office but stressed their commitment to keeping NASA's small business programs active.
"If you've noticed across the federal government, there've been a lot of agencies that have lost their entire small business office. And for us, that's our fight. We're not going away," he said.
Nick Case, Manager of the Marshall Partnership and Opportunities
office, emphasized the importance of NASA's collaboration with small businesses, citing their ability to work quickly and creatively.
"Small businesses are essential to our success. You have the agility to move fast. You can specialize in technical capabilities that are world-class. Often, the innovative edge that we need to solve our problems comes from small businesses," Case said.
Case also pointed out the budget challenges NASA is facing, spotlighting the need to lower costs by streamlining efforts on current and future projects within the agency.
"Secretary Duffy put it plainly, we need to bring costs down on Artemis, and we need to do more missions with the same amount of money. That means we need to rethink our approach. We need to partner more deeply with industry, and we need to share investment and reduce duplication," Case said.
According to Case and other speakers, small businesses are crucial to the agency's ability to lessen ex-
penses. Case, in particular, highlighted how these organizations can work with MSFC specifically to do this.
"Small businesses, you play a critical role in being able to prototype quickly to get hardware into the test, into the field, so that we can demonstrate capabilities as soon as possible. You can work lean small teams at many hours and deliver novel solutions that are going to be needed to reduce risk and costs," Case said.
During the meeting, David Brock, MSFC's Small Business Specialist (Office of Procurement), was honored for his upcoming retirement this December. Brock faithfully worked at MSFC for 41 years. Several NASA leaders spoke highly of Brock and the positive influence he had on both the organization and on them personally and professionally.
The next MSFC Small Business Alliance meeting is scheduled for March 2026. Small businesses interested in working with MSFC can contact one of the center's many representatives or visit the organization's website. w
By: Katie Holt / Photo by Katie Holt
Federal government shutdowns occur when Congress fails to pass appropriations legislation. These shutdowns often result from disagreements over spending levels, policy priorities, or program funding. During such periods, parts of the federal workforce may be furloughed, while essential government services continue. Communities with economies closely tied to federal agencies and contractors, like Huntsville, Alabama, feel these impacts most acutely. Why Huntsville Is Uniquely Exposed
Huntsville’s economy is heavily reliant on defense, aerospace, and space programs. Major installations, including NASA centers and Redstone Arsenal, employ thousands of workers and host a variety of federal and defense organizations. These include Army commands, missile defense agencies, military headquarters, and contractors supporting research, technology development, and logistics.
The city’s defense and aerospace sector supports a substantial portion of local employment and contributes significantly to the economy. Many of Huntsville’s largest employers depend on federal contracts, so disruptions in government funding can have immediate consequences. When funding lapses, contractors may temporarily halt projects, research can be delayed, and local businesses reliant on employee spending may see revenue drop. Even programs that continue operating, such as Social Security or certain essential services, cannot fully shield the local economy from these ripple effects.
Huntsville’s regional economy is also influenced by surrounding counties, which host additional contractors, research firms, and suppliers serving federal agencies. These interconnected relationships amplify the effects of federal disruptions beyond the immediate federal workforce.
Potential Impacts on Huntsville
The effects of a shutdown vary depending on its duration and scale: Short Shutdowns (a few weeks):
Even brief shutdowns can temporarily reduce household income
How Federal Shutdowns and What Locals
By: Kait
for thousands of federal employees and contractors. Local spending may decline as households prioritize essential expenses, which can affect small businesses, restaurants, and service providers. While employees typically receive back pay once the shutdown ends, contractors and dependent businesses may face immediate financial strain.
Extended Shutdowns (several weeks or more):
Prolonged shutdowns intensify these challenges. Furloughed workers may struggle with cash flow, while contractors may delay hiring or pause operations. Businesses that rely on government contracts, supply chains, or employee spending could see sustained reductions in revenue. Local governments and nonprofits often step in to provide assistance during extended disruptions.
Broader Economic Ripple Effects:
Beyond direct employees and contractors, shutdowns can affect housing markets, retail, dining, and local services. Contractors may delay capital investments, and small businesses may postpone hiring or expansion plans. Historical patterns show that these indirect effects can persist for months, even after federal employees receive back pay.
Historical Lessons from Federal Shutdowns
Past shutdowns provide insight into challenges Huntsville may face. Federal employees usually return to work with
retroactive pay, but contractors generally do not, making local support programs essential. Communities with strong local partnerships, emergency funds, and diversified economic bases tend to recover more quickly. Local officials, business leaders, and community organizations can all play a role in reducing economic disruption during these periods.
What Huntsville Can Do
While local leaders cannot end a federal shutdown, proactive measures can help mitigate its economic impact:
Local Government and Civic Leaders
• Develop relief programs, such as
low-interest loans, emergency microgrants, or temporary tax relief for affected businesses.
• Establish a coordination task force to work with federal agencies, minimize contract interruptions, and expedite payments when operations resume.
• Encourage residents to support small businesses and service providers not dependent on federal contracts.
• Strengthen partnerships with nonprofits and food banks to ensure families continue receiving essential services.
• Communicate proactively with the public about available resources and support options.
Businesses and Contractors
• Assess financial reserves and determine how long operations can continue under reduced revenue.
• Diversify client bases to reduce reliance on federal contracts.
• Negotiate flexible supplier and landlord terms and cross-train employees to maintain core operations.
• Maintain transparent communication with staff and clients to sustain trust during uncertain periods.
• Plan for potential procurement de-
Thursday
Can Impact Huntsville
Can Do About It
lays or project adjustments. Citizens and Federal Workers
• Build emergency savings and budget carefully.
• Explore temporary freelance, gig, or part-time work if federal pay is delayed.
• Seek assistance from local charities, community centers, or credit unions offering short-term relief.
• Stay informed through official government updates and trusted local news sources.
• Participate in community networks that share information, resources, and support.
Supporting Local Businesses and Tourism
The impact of a federal shutdown extends beyond employees and contractors. Reduced household income and
delayed government contracts can lead to fewer shoppers, diners, and clients for local businesses. Small shops, restaurants, and service providers often rely on consistent local spending, so even a temporary dip can create significant strain. Residents can help by shopping locally, supporting independent retailers, dining at neighborhood restaurants, and purchasing from service providers who contribute to Huntsville’s economic vibrancy.
Tourism, while not the city’s primary economic driver, also sees declines during shutdowns. Hotels, museums, tours, and other attractions experience fewer visitors when federal travel is limited or tourists adjust plans due to government closures. This reduction affects seasonal employees, tour operators, and small hospitality businesses. Encouraging lo-
cal tourism through day trips, museum visits, and cultural events can help maintain economic activity and support businesses. By consciously investing in the community, residents help sustain Huntsville’s economy and foster resilience during federal funding disruptions.
A Path
Forward
Federal shutdowns highlight the interconnectedness of federal institutions and local economies. Huntsville’s success depends on innovation, research, and partnerships with federal agencies, which also make the city vulnerable during funding disruptions. Communities that anticipate funding interruptions, communicate clearly with stakeholders, and maintain strong local partnerships are better equipped to weather shutdowns. By preparing early, supporting local businesses, and fostering collabora-
tion, Huntsville can protect its economic progress and maintain resilience in the face of federal uncertainties. w
Strong: North Alabama Ready for Golden Dome, SPACEPORT, and More
If Congressman Dale Strong is reading the tea leaves right in Washington, D.C., the Tennessee Valley will be getting more than Space Command.
“I believe that North Alabama will play an even larger role in Golden Dome than many of our own people here believe,’’ Strong, who represents Alabama’s Fifth Congressional District, told the Huntsville Business Journal.
Strong (R–AL-05) was at the recent ribbon-cutting for the new Madison Chamber of Commerce.
“Just based on the details and the communications from the White House,’’ he said. “You just look at our (Alabama) delegation working solidly together. I think that has paid off. But the other thing is, everybody understands that we’re able, we’ve got the workforce to meet the task that’s expected.’’
As for pitching to get Golden Dome, Strong added, “You get one shot at this. We've got to be sure we’re on the money.’’
Strong said Redstone Arsenal and the surrounding communities are “ready’’ for all Congress wants to send to North Alabama. He added that the Alabama delegation in Washington has worked in lockstep to secure SPACECOM, and now Golden Dome and SPACEPORT.
“The capabilities that we have are going to make us even stronger (when considered),’’ he said. “But I’m telling you right now, this is going to be good. The jobs that will come (with Golden Dome) will probably be about 300, 350 a year.
“You’ve got three buildings being built that we hope will be completed within 14 to 18 months. And then the construction at Redstone will be a five- to seven-year process. But I believe we’re right where we need to be, and we are working to get construction dollars for all of North Alabama.’’
Last week, Strong reintroduced the Spaceport Project Opportuni-
ties for Resilient Transportation (SPACEPORT) Act, which would provide dedicated federal support to U.S. spaceports, ensuring the nation can meet growing civil, commercial, and national security demands for space transportation.
“The United States continues to set the pace in space exploration, and North Alabama stands at the heart of that momentum,’’ he said when re-introducing the legislation. “During my time as chairman of the Madison County Commission, I worked closely with community leaders and industry partners to help secure Huntsville International Airport’s designation as the nation’s first licensed reentry site for space vehicles.
“With unmatched capabilities across civil, commercial, and national security space programs, North Alabama is uniquely positioned to drive the infrastructure that will define the next generation of space innovation.”
Spaceports are ground-based launch and reentry sites for spacecraft. Huntsville International Airport (HSV) was the first commercial airport approved by the
FAA to serve as a reentry site and accommodate space vehicle landings.
HSV is already a designated re-entry site for Sierra Space’s Dream Chaser, a spaceplane that makes reentries from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and has previously landed at HSV.
Strong has been an instrumental presence for North Alabama while a member of Congress, and had an impact on current events while still with the county commission. He has strong ties to the community and region.
He hails from Monrovia, an unincorporated community in Madison County that is bordered on the south by Madison, on the southeast by Huntsville, on the west by Limestone County, and on the north by the community of Harvest.
In news articles, Strong has been referred to as being from most of those places at various times.
“Just say North Alabama,’’ he said, referring to the constituent base he vows to keep fighting for.
“The majority of the people don’t know where Monrovia is,’’ Strong said. “Doesn't matter. My thing is, I’m proud of where I came from. My family owned a gas and grocery store there in unincorporated Madison County in Monrovia, and I do believe that's what made me who I am today.’’ w
By: Mike Easterling /
Photo by Mike Easterling
Madison County Ranks Among Top 10 Best Counties to Live in America
Madison County has secured a spot among the best places to live in the nation, ranking seventh out of 2,764 counties in Niche’s 2025 list of “Best Counties to Live in America.” The county also claimed the top ranking within Alabama.
Niche’s rankings are based on a comprehensive analysis of factors such as quality of local schools, cost of living, job opportunities and access to amenities. These insights are drawn from sources including the U.S Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other sources.
“Madison County continues to stand out as a place where people can thrive,” said Chairman Mac McCutcheon. “This recognition reflects the growth of our community and the quality-of-life amenities that set us apart.”
With a population of nearly 400,000 and a median household income of $83,528, the county offers a strong economic foundation and abundant community life. In addition to its top ranking for livability, Stacker also named Madison County the number one best county to raise a family in Alabama, based on Niche’s 2025 rankings. w
Akima Expands Huntsville Operations, Supports Local Education
Akima, a contractor that provides services to the federal government, has opened a new 35,000-square-foot office in Huntsville. The company marked the occasion with a ribboncutting ceremony. The new location adds to the presence of defense, aerospace, and technology businesses in the city.
Attendees included Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, Madison
County Commission Chairman Mac McCutcheon, U.S. Army service members, leaders from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, representatives from the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce, industry partners, and Akima employees.
The company said the new facility will support its work in delivering services to federal customers and provide additional space for collaboration. Akima also noted that the Huntsville office will add jobs in areas such as aerospace, IT, engineering, logistics, and mission support.
Akima works with several federal agencies based in Huntsville. At Redstone Arsenal, the company provides engineering, environmental, and maintenance services for organizations including the U.S. Army Materiel Command, U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Space and Missile Defense Command, multiple Program Executive Offices, as well as elements of the Defense Intelligence Agency and the Missile Defense Agency. Akima also provides technology support, training, and field services for analytical software used by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“Huntsville has long been at the heart of America’s defense and space industries, and Akima is proud to expand here in a way that supports both our customers and the community,” said Bill Monet, president and CEO of Akima. “This investment strengthens our ability to deliver for our federal partners, creates new opportunities for talented professionals in the region, and reflects our long-term commitment to the Rocket City.”
Outside of its federal contracting work, Akima participates in a variety of community initiatives and partnerships in Huntsville. The company is the presenting sponsor of the Rocket City Classic, scheduled for December 21, 2025, at the Von Braun Center’s Propst Arena. Akima is also a member of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce, the National Space Club, the Night Stalkers Association, and the North Alabama Chapter of American Gold Star Mothers, and takes part in local events with the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) and the Army Aviation
Association of America (AAAA). Akima subsidiary Pinnacle Solutions has joined the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering (ASCTE) as a Partner in Education, contributing $100,000 to the ASCTE Foundation. The donation, presented during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, will support programs aimed at preparing students for careers in cyber, technology, and engineering. The check was presented to PeggyLee Wright, executive director of the ASCTE Foundation, and Matt Massey, president of ASCTE. w
Jim Page Named Interim Executive Director of Launch Regional Partnership
Launch Regional Partnership, a coalition of business and civic leaders from across North Alabama, has appointed its chairman, Jim Page, as interim executive director.
Founded in 2015, the all-volunteer nonprofit has focused on aligning workforce development, expanding the region’s entrepreneurial network, and guiding land use planning across its 10-county footprint. It recently adopted a new strategic blueprint, the Roadmap for the Region, which broadens its agenda to include transportation, infrastructure, and leadership connectivity. A central goal of the plan is the hiring of a full-time executive director.
“Jim is the ideal person to lead Launch through this critical time in its history, especially in the dual role of Chairman and Interim Executive Director,” said Joe Campbell, Chief Legal Counsel for the Huntsville Hospital Health System and a member of the Launch Board of Directors. “We firmly believe we’re on the cusp of creating something extremely special but, after 10 years of an all-volunteer effort, it’s time for full-time executive leadership. Jim’s proven experience of doing this type of work and his exceptionally strong relationships throughout the region will expedite
our success in implementing our new strategic plan.”
Prior to joining Huntsville’s MartinFed as an Executive Vice President in 2023, Page spent more than 20 years as a chamber of commerce executive. He was President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama in Tuscaloosa for 11 years, guiding the organization through tremendous growth and spearheading highly successful initiatives in areas such as entrepreneurship, economic and workforce development, and transportation. Under Page’s leadership, the 9-county regional organization was named the 2021 Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. He started his chamber career as Vice President of Public Policy and Business Development with the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce.
“It is a great honor to assume this additional role and help accelerate efforts to make Launch an even more dynamic, inclusive, and results-driven organization,” said Page. “I truly believe in the power of regionalism and know that genuine collaboration across sectors and county lines is the only way a region can maximize its growth potential. My goal is to spend the coming weeks positioning this unique organization and its permanent Executive Director to be leading champions of regionalism in North Alabama.” w
UAH and SAIC Launch Cloud Center of Excellence to Expand Cyber Workforce
The University of Alabama in Huntsville’s College of Business and Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) marked the latest step in their partnership with a $50,000 donation from the company
to establish the UAH Cloud Center of Excellence. The program will provide students with direct access to cloudcomputing education and training in order to grow their professional development skills and expand the pipeline of skilled cyber professionals across the defense industrial ecosystem.
At a check-presentation ceremony at UAH’s Business Administration Building, College of Business Dean Dr. Jason Greene thanked SAIC for its role in advancing the university’s cloud-computing curriculum. “We are truly grateful for SAIC’s support of our cloud-computing curriculum,” Greene said. “SAIC’s continued leadership and commitment to education will directly enhance our business curriculum, provide access to industry-recognized certifications for students, and expand professional development opportunities for faculty. We are proud to build on a 15-year collaboration with SAIC to expand opportunities for students to succeed in technology-focused careers.”
SAIC is a Fortune 500 com-
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pany that provides technology and innovation solutions for the U.S. government, serving defense, space, civilian, and intelligence sectors.
“The partnership between SAIC and UAH represents our strong commitment to the region and building the cyber workforce of the future,” said Senior Vice President Greg Fortier, SAIC Army Business Group.
“This type of investment is something our CEO, Toni Townes-Whitley, talks about all the time – to whom much is given, much is required. We have certainly been given a lot in this community, both collectively and individually, and we want to give back. We think this is one of the pieces of what is required of us to ensure an advanced talent pool is available in the region and the nation.”
The UAH Cloud Center of Excellence also makes good business sense. Fortier said he’s looking forward to seeing students who’ve completed the program filling vital roles at SAIC.
Leading the new program at UAH is Dr. Wai Yin Mok, chair, De-
partment of Information Systems, Supply Chain, and Analytics, College of Business. He said he was “thrilled” when Greene told him that SAIC wanted to collaborate on an initiative that would allow UAH to grow its cloud-computing courses.
“For several years, we have been offering the AWS (Amazon Web Services) Academy Cloud Foundations and Cloud Architecting courses, along with the Machine Learning Foundations course – all with consistently high enrollment,” Mok said.
AWS Academy provides colleges and universities with free cloud-computing curricula designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for AWS certifications and careers in cloud computing. The courses cover foundational cloud concepts as well as architecting, development, operations, and data analytics. w
Fifth Third Opens First of 15 Planned Alabama Branches in Huntsville
Fifth Third Bank has cut the ribbon on its newest branch in Huntsville, marking the latest step in a sweeping expansion strategy aimed at the fastgrowing Southeast. The opening at 5901-B University Drive drew bank executives, community leaders and curious residents, who were greeted by a spirited performance from the Columbia High School band, food trucks and local vendors offering giveaways and samples in a showcase of MidCity businesses.
The ribbon cutting was part of Fifth Third’s accelerated expansion push, unveiled in late 2024, to open 200 new branches by 2028. By the end of that plan, the bank expects
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roughly half of its retail footprint to be anchored in the region.
The MidCity branch is the first of 15 financial centers Fifth Third plans to open in Alabama over the next three years — 10 in Huntsville and five in Birmingham — part of a broader bid to cement its presence and compete for top deposit share in both cities.
With these openings and a longterm plan to grow across Alabama, Fifth Third continues to invest in modern banking technology, personalized service, and community partnerships to meet the needs of one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions.
The ribbon cutting ceremony and celebration also generated excitement for two additional Fifth Third branches opening before the end of the year, further expanding access across the Huntsville-Madison area:
• Hays Farm – Opening Fall 2025 9030 Memorial Pkwy. SW, Huntsville, AL 35802
Just south of the Hays Nature Preserve, near Publix
• Pine Grove – Coming Late 2025 7143 Wall Triana Hwy., Madison, AL 35757
Near the Clift Farm development, off Highway 72 w
HudsonAlpha Awarded
2025 AWS Imagine Grant to Advance Rare Disease Research
HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology has been selected as a winner of the 2025 Amazon Web Services (AWS) Imagine Grant: Children’s Health Innovation Award, a grant designed to accelerate innovation in improving children’s health outcomes through advanced cloud services.
By focusing on children’s health, AWS seeks to bring more focus and attention to a wide variety of causes and care organizations that are dedicated to helping children live longer, healthier lives through the strategic
use of cloud technology. The grant will support HudsonAlpha’s efforts to help clinicians and researchers better understand rare diseases that affect children and their families.
HudsonAlpha was named a recipient in the Children’s Health Innovation Award category, which recognizes highly innovative, mission-critical projects accelerating children’s health innovation using advanced cloud services. HudsonAlpha will receive a combination of funding and AWS computing credits, along with implementation support from technical specialists. Proposals were evaluated based on several criteria, including the innovative and unique nature of the project, impact on mission-critical goals, and clearly defined outcomes and milestones.
“This year's AWS Children's Health Innovation Award recipients are truly inspiring,” said Allyson Fryhoff, Managing Director, Global Healthcare and Life Sciences at AWS. “These leading pediatric institutions are using AWS technology to transform how we care for children worldwide. From using generative AI for personalized treatment decisions to creating predictive analytics for disease prevention, their projects share a powerful vision: making high-quality care more accessible, predictive, and effective for every child. At AWS, we're proud to support this collaborative innovation that's building a future where every child can access the best possible care, informed by data and delivered with precision and compassion.”
HudsonAlpha will use the grant to further develop its medical analysis tool to help healthcare professionals and researchers better understand rare diseases that affect children and their families. The system utilizes cloud technology and artificial intelligence to rapidly analyze patients' genetic information, enabling a more accurate determination of the cause of a child's rare disease and the identification of more effective treatment approaches. The tool is updated with the latest medical discoveries, allowing families to obtain answers about their children's health conditions. w
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Heart of the Valley YMCA Emerges from Bankruptcy, Poised for Renewal
The Heart of the Valley YMCA has announced its successful emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy, marking a new chapter in its longstanding commitment to strengthening the North Alabama community through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body.
The YMCA first entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy in August 2024 as part of a strategic restructuring effort. Over the past year, the Association has worked diligently to stabilize operations, strengthen financial stewardship, and position itself for long-term success.
“This is a turning point for the Heart of the Valley YMCA,” said Rob Gray, who joined the Association as President and Chief Executive Officer last month. “Our mission remains at the heart of everything we do. Exiting bankruptcy allows us to move forward with renewed strength, optimism, and focus on serving children, families, and neighbors across our Region.”
The Y also expressed deep appreciation to Redstone Federal Credit Union for its support in helping pave the pathway to recovery and a successful exit.
“We are deeply grateful to Redstone FederalCredit Union for their partnership and assistance throughout the restructuring process,” said Jared Sharp, Board Chair of the Heart of the Valley YMCA. “Their collaboration and belief in the YMCA’s mission were instrumental in ensuring we could continue serving our community and emerge from this process stron-
Longtime Bank Independent Team Member Cody Holder Promoted to Vice President Sales Officer
Bank Independent has announced the promotion of Cody Holder to Vice President – Sales Officer, effective September 25, 2025.
Cody Holder joined Bank Independent in 2010 and has built a career marked by steady growth and commitment to community banking. He began as a Part-Time Teller and has since held roles including Personal Banker, Treasury Solutions Sales Specialist, Real Estate Specialist, and Sales Manager. Since 2019, he has served as Sales Officer, contributing to the bank’s success through his leadership and focus on building strong relationships with customers and colleagues.
In his new role, Cody will continue to serve customers through Bank Independent’s Cox Creek Sales Office in Florence. His leadership experience and knowledge of community banking will support his continued work with clients and colleagues.
Cody holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from the University of North Alabama and has furthered his professional growth through Leadership Shoals and the Alabama Banking School.
ger than ever.”
"Redstone is honored to support the Heart of the Valley YMCA in its journey toward renewed strength and stability," said Joe Newberry, President and CEO of Redstone Federal Credit Union. "The YMCA is a vital part of our community. We believe in their mission and are proud to stand beside them as they move forward into a brighter future."
With the restructuring now complete, the YMCA will continue to expand access to vital community programs—ranging from youth development and family wellness to outreach initiatives that address health, education, and social responsibility. The organization is committed to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background or financial means, can benefit from the Y’s life-changing programs.
“While the past year has brought challenges, it has also reaffirmed the resilience of our YMCA family and
Jacob Tucker Named Junior Lender at Bank Independent
the importance of our mission,” said Gray. “We are grateful for the unwavering support of our members, staff, volunteers, and community partners. Together, we will build a stronger YMCA for generations to come.” w
HudsonAlpha Joins International H.A.R.V.E.S.T. Network to Drive Agtech Innovation
HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology has been selected as one of 12 regional ecosystem innovation hubs in the U.S.—and among partners in four other countries—to serve as an Ecosystem Partner in H.A.R.V.E.S.T. (Harnessing Agricultural Research and
Bank Independent has announced that Jacob Tucker will transition to the role of Junior Lender as part of a new lender pilot training program.
“Jacob’s passion for learning, leadership, and serving others truly reflects the values we hold at Bank Independent,” said Jason Windham, President of Bank Independent. “His transition into the Junior Lender role is a natural next step in his growth and a testament to his dedication to our customers and communities.”
Tucker joined Bank Independent in June 2023 as part of the Learning and Development team before moving into the Professional Development area in early 2024. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of North Alabama and a master’s degree in leadership and public service from Lipscomb University.
A rising leader in the banking industry, Tucker recently completed his first year at Alabama Banking School, where he was elected Class President for the Class of 2026—an achievement that highlights his dedication and leadership within the field.
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Venture Ecosystems for Sustainable Technology), a new global platform.
H.A.R.V.E.S.T. is a global collaborative agtech accelerator built upon the success of the Wells Fargo Innovation Incubators (IN2) and facilitated by the Yield Lab Institute in St. Louis, Mo.
As an Ecosystem Partner, HudsonAlpha will guide agtech startups into the program pipeline, connect innovators with resources and expertise and shape collaboration opportunities that will accelerate progress through the research-tocommercialization pipeline. While H.A.R.V.E.S.T. is an international endeavor, its partnership with HudsonAlpha is expected to have a significant impact on agtech innovation and economic growth in the Wiregrass Region and throughout the state, serving as a catalyst for Alabama agtech companies to reach beyond the Wiregrass to the world with innovations to improve the daily lives of people around the globe.
“Together with The Yield Lab
Institute and our partners, HudsonAlpha is proud to support agtech founders – uniting our strengths in research, education and economic development in Huntsville with our growing Wiregrass innovation hub to deliver impact from Alabama to the world,” said Dillon Fritz, Vice President of Economic Development and Commercialization.
IN2 is funded by Wells Fargo and co-administered by NREL, a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory. More information about the H.A.R.V.E.S.T. agtech program will be shared in the coming weeks online at harvestagtech.org. w
