New Market Residents Push Back on Integra Water Project
The recent announcement that Integra Water plans to build a wastewater treatment facility near the Flint River in New Market has sparked significant concern among local residents, environmental advocates, and river-dependent businesses. By Kait Thursday - Page 2
GOVERNMENT
Torch Co-founder Bill Roark Speaks at U.S. Senate Committee Hearing: Shares Support for Employee Stock Ownership Legislation
On Thursday, July 24, Bill Roark, a Huntsville resident and co-founder of Torch Technologies, appeared before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee in Washington, D.C. By Katie Holt - Page 14
ADDITIONAL STORIES
• Gen Z Veterans Help Drive Nearly 19% in VA Loan Usage By Noah Logan • Page 5
• Bridge Street Town Centre Continues to Expand Retail Offerings with Madwell, L.L.Bean, and Rowan By Katie Holt • Page 8
• 5 Reasons GPT5 Will Not Take Your Huntsville Job in 2025 By Carl Holden • Page 10
Flint River at Risk? New Market Residents Push Back on Integra Water Project
The recent announcement that Integra Water plans to build a wastewater treatment facility near the Flint River in New Market has sparked significant concern among local residents, environmental advocates, and river-dependent businesses. Questions have arisen about how the new plant might impact water quality, local ecosystems, and public health, especially given Alabama’s history of industrial pollution and water contamination.
The Project and Community Response
Integra Water has applied to the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) to construct and operate a wastewater treatment plant near Winchester Road, close to the Flint River. The plant will treat municipal sewage and discharge treated effluent under ADEM oversight and the Clean Water Act.
Wastewater treatment plants are vital infrastructure designed to protect public health and the environment by removing harmful bacteria, nutrients, and contaminants before returning water to rivers and streams. Still, this project has alarmed New Market residents.
Homeowners worry about odors, noise, and declining property values. Businesses relying on the Flint River for recreation fear water quality degradation could hurt tourism and the local economy. One kayaking business owner, who requested anonymity, said, “This river is my whole life, and we’ve been trying for years to prevent things like this from happening, but this thing with Integra Water left us blindsided. How can I fight something I don’t even know about until it’s (too) late?”
Environmental Risks to the Flint River
The Flint River supports diverse wildlife and recreational use but has faced contamination issues in the past caused by pesticides, fertilizers, and bacteria such as E. coli, documented
by the U.S. Geological Survey. These pollutants cause algal blooms that reduce oxygen and harm aquatic life.
Properly designed wastewater plants remove many contaminants, protecting river ecosystems. But equipment failures, operator error, or lax regulatory oversight can lead to harmful discharges, including pathogens.
Strong, ongoing monitoring and enforcement by ADEM will be crucial to ensure the Integra Water facility does not contribute further pollution.
Alabama’s History of Water Pollution Incidents
Alabama’s industrial past includes significant water pollution challenges. Coal ash disposal from power plants near rivers like the Coosa has leached arsenic, mercury, and other heavy metals into groundwater and surface water, threatening ecosystems and human health.
The American Brass Superfund site in Headland experienced severe soil and groundwater contamination from heavy metals, requiring longterm EPA-led cleanup. Similarly, the Alabama Plating Company site in Vincent left contaminated groundwater, and the Olin Corporation near the Tombigbee River caused decades of chemical discharges with lasting environmental impacts.
Pollution Imposes Major Costs
on Companies and Communities Alike
Over the past 40 years, Alabama has incurred at least $824 million in environmental cleanup costs and corporate settlements related to pollution and contamination incidents. This figure includes some of the state’s most significant cases involving hazardous waste, chemical contamination, and industrial violations. While the true total may be higher due to ongoing and lesspublicized sites, the documented amounts highlight the substantial financial impact on the state and responsible companies.
Major Environmental Cleanup and Settlement Events in Alabama
• Anniston PCB Cleanup: $700 million settlement plus $8.48 million for cleanup of contaminated soil and groundwater.
• 3M PFAS Contamination: At least $100 million spent on cleanup efforts related to perand polyfluoroalkyl substances.
• Swinerton Solar Farm Violations: $540,000 paid to ADEM as part of Clean Water Act settlement.
• EPA Landfill Fire Response in St. Clair County: $2.8 million allocated to extinguish a persistent underground fire.
• McWane Foundry Environmental Penalties and Projects:
Approximately $13.1 million in fines and environmental projects.
The Legal and Regulatory Framework
Alabama’s Constitution includes provisions like the Forever Wild Land Trust to protect natural areas and promote conservation. However, enforcement must balance economic interests, property rights, and public health.
The Clean Water Act, implemented locally by ADEM through the NPDES permit program, regulates wastewater discharges, sets pollutant limits, requires monitoring, and imposes penalties for violations. Despite these protections, critics argue limited enforcement resources and political considerations can weaken oversight, especially in smaller communities, highlighting the importance of active public participation. The ADEM public review process allows community members to review project details, raise questions, and provide feedback before a permit is granted. Local residents say they were not informed about the project until after the public review period had ended. While ADEM opened the review in accordance with Alabama law, there is at this time no evidence that local municipalities adequately notified the public that the review was underway.
How Citizens Can Protect Their Water and Community
Concerned residents can:
• Submit public comments to ADEM during permit review to influence conditions. Though the original deadline has passed, residents may still submit questions or request hearings.
• Demand transparency by requesting detailed engineering plans, treatment protocols, and real-time monitoring data.
• Organize independent water testing with local universities or environmental groups to provide early warnings.
By: Kait Thursday /
Photos by Kait Thursday
ENVIRONMENT
• Engage elected officials and environmental organizations to amplify concerns and encourage rigorous oversight.
• Advocate for watershed management addressing cumulative pollution from agriculture, industry, and development.
A wastewater treatment plant like the one proposed by Integra Water can be essential for managing sewage and protecting water quality—if designed, operated, and regulated effectively. Given Alabama’s pollution history and ongoing challenges, the stakes are high.
New Market resident Kimberly Hills summed up local sentiment: “People who live here ARE having a productive conversation about this, they don’t want it. They are upset it was kept quiet and their input wasn’t wanted. It may be necessary, but there is a way to provide services that include and value community input. There’s a better location for this.”
New Market residents, businesses, and stakeholders should demand
transparency, strict enforcement, and community involvement. With active oversight and collaboration, it is possible to safeguard the Flint River while supporting necessary infrastructure growth.
When asked for comment, Integra Water said the facility “will treat domestic wastewater using advanced processes that include filtration, nutrient removal, and UV disinfection to eliminate harmful bacteria such as E. coli,” adding that “all discharges will be regulated under the Clean Water Act and strictly overseen by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management.”
The company also emphasized its commitment to “transparent communication and ongoing engagement with the community throughout this process.”
For more information on the Integra Water permit and how to participate in the public comment process, visit the Alabama Department of Environmental Management’s website. w
The City of Huntsville, Madison County Engineering Department, in accordance with National Flood Insurance Program regulation 65.7(b)(1), hereby gives notice of a third-party applicant’s intent to revise the flood hazard information, generally located between Hermitage Ave. SE and Telfair Dr SE. Specifically, the flood hazard information will be revised along Fagan Creek from a point approximately 187 feet upstream of Hermitage Ave. SE to a point approximately 600 feet upstream Hermitage Ave. SE.
As a result of the revision, the floodway will narrow, the 1- percent-annual-chance water-surface elevations shall decrease, and the 1-percent-annual-chance floodplain will widen and narrow within the area of revision.
Maps and detailed analysis of the revision can be reviewed at https://maps.huntsvilleal.gov/images/fagancreeklomr1.pdf. For further information, the applicant’s Engineer, Bobby Douglass/ Red Mountain Engineering, can be contacted at 205-730-6040 or bdouglass@redmountaineng.com. If an in-person review is needed at Huntsville City Hall at 305 Fountain Circle Huntsville, Alabama 35801, interested parties should call the City Hydrologist at 256-427-5300 between 9am and 4 pm to schedule an appointment.
Gen Z Veterans Help Drive Nearly 19% Increase in VA Loan Usage
Veterans in Huntsville are purchasing homes at a pace not seen in recent years, and a new report from Veterans United Home Loans puts the city on the national radar. Huntsville ranks No. 7 in the country for growth in VA home purchase loan usage, according to midyear 2025 data, with an 18.8 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
That growth reflects a broader rebound for the VA home loan program. Nationally, VA purchase activity is up nearly 10 percent, total loan volume has increased 45 percent, and refinances have surged by 150 percent year over year.
“Huntsville was one of the top 10 markets nationally seeing the biggest jump in VA purchase lending at the halfway point of the year,” said Chris Birk, vice president of mortgage insight at Veterans United. “That kind of growth signals that military communities like Huntsville continue to play a leading role in this resurgence.”
According to the report, 851 VA purchase loans were made in Huntsville during the first half of 2025, compared to 716 during the same period last year. While millennials still represent the largest group of VA homebuyers by volume, Generation Z service members are beginning to make their presence known. Birk said that around 80 Gen Z buyers in Huntsville used VA loans in the first half of the year. It is a relatively small number but shows a significant upward trend.
“We’re currently helping 19-year-olds buy homes,” Birk said. “It’s incredible to see, and it speaks to how this benefit is opening doors for young veterans just getting started in life.”
The trend mirrors what happened more than a decade ago as millennials began entering the housing market, often burdened by student debt and lacking the savings for a traditional down pay-
ment. VA loans helped remove those barriers then, and they are doing so again now.
“This program was built for exactly this kind of moment,” Birk said. “For young buyers who might otherwise be shut out, the VA loan provides a path to homeownership. There is no down payment requirement, no mortgage insurance, and the credit standards are more flexible. That’s what makes it such a powerful wealth-building tool.”
Even as the broader housing market continues to adapt to changing interest rates and affordability concerns, Huntsville’s growth aligns with national trends. Other cities in the top 10 include Sacramento, Portland, Omaha, Little Rock, Raleigh, Columbus, Seattle, Tucson, and Detroit.
While VA purchase activity dipped in 2024, down 7 percent due to high interest rates, Birk said 2025 is showing a very different pattern. Many veterans who bought homes in recent years are now refinancing under more favorable conditions, contributing to the sharp rise in overall loan volume.
“Refinances are playing a big role this year, especially for buyers who locked in at higher rates in 2022 or 2023,” he said. “But
purchase lending is up as well, and that’s a strong sign.”
Birk also emphasized the deeper meaning of the program’s
By: Noah Logan
continued success.
“This benefit is doing what it was created to do more than 80 years ago,” he said. “It’s helping service members, veterans, and their families plant roots, build generational wealth, and access a piece of the American dream. That’s especially important in communities like Huntsville where military service and opportunity go hand in hand.”
The full report is available at: Veterans United: The Hottest Housing Markets for VA Buyers in 2025. Visit https://www. veteransunited.com/education/thehottest-housing-markets-for-vabuyers-so-far-in-2025/. w
Average Age of First-Time Homebuyers Hits 38 — How Huntsville Can Stay Ahead
With 140 million Americans entering peak buying years and only 26% of Gen Z owning a home, Huntsville could see surging demand — and higher prices — in the years ahead.
The average age of first-time homebuyers in the U.S. has reached a record high of 38, up from 35 just last year. In the 1980s, the median first-time buyer age was 29. Today, they make up just 24% of all home purchases, the lowest level since recordkeeping began in 1981.
This trend matters because homeownership remains the primary path to wealth for most Americans. Homeowners have 40 times the net worth of renters, but affordability challenges are delaying purchases and, in turn, delaying major life milestones like marriage and starting a family. Lower homeownership also impacts community engagement, as owners tend to be more invested in local neighborhoods.
Several factors are driving the shift. Rising home prices, elevated mortgage
rates, and increased living costs have put ownership out of reach for many. In some markets, entry-level homeownership costs nearly twice as much as renting, before factoring in the tax benefits and long-term appreciation. Student debt, wage stagnation in certain sectors, and down payment requirements add to the challenge.
Younger buyers are increasingly relying on family help. In 2024, 26% of first-time buyers received down payment assistance from relatives, up from 18% in 2019. At the same time, demand
is building — 140 million Americans will enter peak homebuying age over the next decade, but only 26% of Gen Z currently own a home. Potential solutions include removing property taxes for first-time buyers (and all homeowners), eliminating private mortgage insurance (PMI), ending Fannie Mae’s conservatorship to encourage competition and lower fees, expanding affordable housing, and offering creative co-investment programs for those without a down payment. Eliminating corporate bulk purchases of single-family homes could also help level the playing field.
The good news for Huntsville is that affordability remains better here than in many other U.S. markets — for
By: Matt Curtis
now. With strong job growth and an increasing population, the window for first-time buyers to get in before prices climb further may be closing. By the Numbers: First-Time Homebuyer Trends
• 38 – Average age of U.S. first-time homebuyers in 2024, up from 35 in 2023
• 29 – Average first-time buyer age in the 1980s
• 24% – Share of all U.S. home purchases by first-time buyers (lowest since 1981)
• 40x – Net worth advantage homeowners have over renters
• 26% – Gen Z homeownership rate (compared to ~60% for Baby Boomers at the same age)
• 140 million – Americans entering peak homebuying years over the next decade
• 26% – First-time buyers receiving family down payment help in 2024, up from 18% in 2019. w
Real Estate Update: July Monthly Report
Shows Dip in Closed Sales, Median Sales Price
By: Marie Johnson
The Huntsville Area Association of Realtors (HAAR) has released its monthly report for the Huntsville/Madison County market for the month of July.
The report shows that closed sales in all properties have dipped by 8.7% from July of 2024, and the median sales price in all properties has seen a 1.8% decrease as well.
The median sales price for a single-family home in the Huntsville area reached $345,439, a decrease of 2.8%, but townhouse/ condo units saw a 0.9% increase in median sales price, to $300,000.
New listings for single-family units were up by 2.7%, but townhouse units have seen a 55.1% decrease in new listings. Similarly, pending sales for single-family homes were up by 13.3%, but townhouses were down by 10.9%.
Properties took longer to sell in July than the previous year, with the average days on market for single-family homes sitting at 42, up from 39, and townhouse units taking an average of 66 days to sell, an 88% increase from the previous year, where they sold at an average of 35 days on the market.
Inventory for single-family homes has increased by 8.7%, but
inventory of townhouse units is down by 36.4%.
On the national scale, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reports that home sales nationwide dipped 2.7% from June to July of 2025. The South as a region saw a slight decline in monthly sales, but the July figures represent an increase in year-toyear sales figures for the region.
The Producer Price Index (PPI) report for July shows an annual rate of inflation for core producer prices at 3.3%. Combined with the weak jobs report for July, and the market will need to cool its expectations for a Federal Reserve interest rate cut.
“The large spike in the Producer Price Index this morning shows inflation is coursing through the economy, even if it hasn’t been felt by consumers yet,” wrote Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer at Northlight Asset Management. “Given how benign the CPI numbers were on Tuesday, this is a most unwelcome surprise to the upside and is likely to unwind some of the optimism of a ‘guaranteed’ rate cut next month.”
The Huntsville Business Journal will continue to monitor market conditions, both nationally and here at home. w
Bridge Street Town Centre Continues to Expand Retail Offerings with Madewell, L.L.Bean, and Rowan
Three new retailers, Madewell, L.L.Bean, and Rowan, are coming soon to Bridge Street Town Centre in Huntsville, bringing more options for area shoppers.
Madewell, known for its classic wardrobe staples and quality denim, will open this November. Outdoor retailer L.L.Bean will debut its firstever Alabama location at Bridge Street next spring. Rowan, a piercing studio where all piercings are performed exclusively by licensed nurses, is slated to open in 2026.
Justin Stein, Tanger's Executive Vice President of Leasing, said the company is tailoring its leasing strategy to meet the expectations of local shoppers.
"We have, as you know, in Huntsville, a very sophisticated consumer. We have a very, very educated consumer in this market, a very well-compensated and smart demographic here. So we're leasing to that and we're listening," Stein said.
Regarding the three new brands, Stein said Tanger is excited to see the positive impact Madewell, L.L.Bean, and Rowan will have on the shopping center.
"I'm confident that this will just help us keep the momentum going," Stein said.
Stein also emphasized that the goal is to reflect community preferences in the shopping center's mix of retailers.
"It's important, I think, to get out there that we're listening to what the community wants from a merchandising mix standpoint and we're trying to deliver on that," Stein said.
Maxine Miller, Assistant Vice President of Lifestyle Leasing at
Tanger, said in a recent statement that Bridge Street is, "…at the heart of one of the fastest-growing markets in the Southeast."
She added that Tanger is committed to bringing in sought-after, unique retailers that enhance the center's appeal.
"We're proud to introduce in-demand, exclusive, and firstto-market retailers that elevate the overall shopper experience and reinforce Bridge Street's position as a destination unlike any other in the state," Miller said.
Tanger acquired Bridge Street in 2023 and has since added several new tenants, including Starbucks, Crocs, and Warby Parker. The center also welcomed Alabama's only LEGO retail location earlier this year, a store Stein says has been an immediate hit.
"LEGO opened a few months ago, and it came out of the gate extremely hot. The sales that they're doing are off the charts," Stein said.
He noted that the store has not
only performed well but has also brought new visitors to the shopping center.
"LEGO corporate is extremely
excited about the early indications of that store. It speaks to the Huntsville community and it's bringing a younger demographic to Bridge Street Town Centre, and it's something that we're going to build off of," Stein said.
According to Stein, Huntsville's growth and reputation make it a natural choice for major brands.
"We love this market. We know it's emerging, it's growing. And, brands, when they think about Alabama, they're thinking about Huntsville. I think it's a testament to what's going on in the community," Stein said.
Businesses interested in leasing opportunities at Bridge Street Town Centre can contact Maxine Miller by email at Maxine.Miller@tanger. com or by calling 312.371.4484. w
By: Katie Holt / Photos courtesy of Tanger
5 Reasons GPT5 Will Not Take Your Huntsville Job in 2025
A lot has happened in AI so far in 2025. ChatGPT 3.5 only made its public debut three years ago, but if you’ve been following the developments of it and other companies, it feels like a lifetime ago. I remember people saying, “Imagine what GPT 5 and on will be like!”
I’m going to illuminate five reasons why GPT-5 will not take your job in 2025. Unlike many of the articles out on the internet, these are not the obvious, clickbait reasons you might expect. These could only come from someone like me, a fellow Huntsvillian with a keen interest in our exact situation. Here are the reasons your job will not be taken by AI:
1. Lack of sentience
2. Alabama’s progress
3. ChatGPT is not “cleared”
4. AI doesn’t want your job, but…
5. You still have a choice
Well, now we know, three years later. Super intelligence is still not here. However, that’s not to say that the world isn’t changing. There is a lot of nuance, subtlety, and change happening to us even if we don’t realize it. So reason #1 is ChatGPT is still no more sentient than your toaster.
Also, here’s more good news! Reason #2 is Alabama is not “behind” when it comes to AI. In a recent study, our state falls in the middle in terms of preparedness for an AI-centric workforce. We are #34 when it comes to how many of our businesses use AI, but we are #11 when it comes to elementary computer education. And given that much of the traction is likely Huntsville and Birmingham, we are doing something right. However, ChatGPT came out three years ago. Are we doing enough? The middle ground is safe, but it
By: Carl Holden
can be lost.
On the theme of fives, I’ve taught five training programs for local entities in government and contracting, teaching them how to use AI. I was pleasantly surprised to see how many have started to use AI, but also alarmed at a much larger number who had little or no experience. We have a vast talent pool here of engineers and contracting experts. Do we have the talent we need to compete? That’s a bigger question.
The third reason your job is safe: ChatGPT is not yet a fully secure system for most contracting purposes. Therefore, you still have runway to catch up. Keep in mind, runways are not super long in comparison to the speed at which takeoff requires.
If you work in government, either in an agency or as a contractor, you know about SAM.gov. It’s where a lot of the major contracts are published. If you searched about a year ago the exact phrase
“artificial intelligence” in SAM. gov, it showed about 200 contracts. Guess what it is now? Over 1700 contracts contain the words artificial intelligence. So if our contracting companies here don’t have those skills in both office work and in technical engineering, will Alabama and Redstone thrive in a contracting environment where there are now 10 times more requirements in AI?
The point is that GPT-5 and its future versions are unlikely to take your job. Understand me when I say that reason #4 is that someone else is out to take your job, but it’s not ChatGPT. Companies who use that software and can edit or even build their own … will take your job. If you’ve not been paying attention, relatively small companies like Anduril are swinging well above their weight. We are known as Rocket City, and our legacy for space travel is one to be proud of! But while space is vast and immense, we don’t go there
very often in comparison to all the other work we do here down on earth. There’s no more open space right now than AI.
The last and final reason that ChatGPT is not taking your job is that you have a choice right now. Are you going to figure out what role AI has in your future or will you continue to stick your head in the sand and chalk up $100+ billion of investment in AI this year as a fad? You still have time, and time is one thing we as humans still have full control over. w
“AI Talks” is from the Huntsville Business Journal on Artificial Intelligence and its applicability to the world of business. HBJ brings you interesting topics led by our contributing expert writer, Carl Holden. This also introduced another new “writer” to our journal: Artificial Intelligence itself. While AI cannot currently write a news article with fully original sources, hopefully it will inform our readers to the nuances of Artificial Intelligence in the modern age of business.
Carl Holden, Creative Director of Zellus Marketing
Huntsville, Alabama, is positioned to play a central role in one of the nation’s most ambitious defense initiatives. The Golden Dome missile defense program— a proposed multi-layer system combining space-based sensors, interceptors, and ground assets—aims to counter emerging missile threats, including maneuverable hypersonics and advanced cruise missiles. Announced by President Trump in early 2025, the program could drive billions in federal investment and reshape Huntsville’s already robust defense sector.
The defense and aerospace industry is Huntsville’s largest employer, with more than 70,000 workers and over $6 billion in annual economic impact, according to the Huntsville-Madison County Chamber. If Golden Dome scales as anticipated, it could reinforce that foundation for decades. Local suppliers, prime contractors, and workforce programs are already preparing to meet expected demand for aerospace engineering, cybersecurity, and high-rate manufacturing talent.
Industry Positioning and Early Development
Golden Dome remains in its formative phase, but industry groundwork is clear:
• Lockheed Martin is advancing space-based interceptor concepts and connected command-and-control solutions, with an initial flight test tentatively targeted for late 2028 under Missile Defense Agency oversight.
“Golden Dome is unlike anything attempted at this scale or speed. We’re prototyping connected systems to integrate technologies that weren’t designed to work to-
What We Know Now and
By: Kait
gether. No single company can do this alone—we’ve built an environment for collaboration to deliver real capabilities fast and help achieve a unified homeland defense,” said Thad Deckert, Vice President at Lockheed Martin.
• Northrop Grumman is expanding missile-defense production capacity in Huntsville and Madison. The company’s recent delivery of 142 Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) major end items—including Engagement Operations Centers and Integrated Fire Control Network Relays— demonstrates how quickly it can scale complex defense manufacturing.
• Northrop Grumman is also expanding its physical footprint in the region to meet future missile-defense production needs. The company recently completed a 200,000-square-
foot expansion of its Huntsville manufacturing campus—an investment of roughly $150 million—to increase capacity for programs such as the Integrated Battle Command System and to prepare for emerging initiatives like Golden Dome. The new space is designed for high-rate, flexible production, supporting rapid prototyping, integration, and testing of advanced missile-defense components. Company officials have emphasized that this growth positions Northrop to scale quickly as federal contracts are finalized, while creating additional opportunities for suppliers and skilled workers across North Alabama.
“Northrop Grumman’s delivery of IBCS MEIs to the U.S. Army underscores our commitment to deliver cutting-edge technology. We have the manufacturing depth and
capacity to deliver at speed, ensuring our armed forces are equipped to meet the challenges of modern warfare with enhanced situational awareness, decision-making precision, and operational adaptability,” said Jeremy Knupp, Vice President of Global Command and Control Solutions at Northrop Grumman. Other defense primes, including Boeing, Raytheon, and Leidos, are boosting regional production of missile-defense hardware, sensor systems, and hypersonic components. These investments—though not yet tied by name to Golden Dome— reflect industry expectations that Huntsville will be a key integration and testing hub.
Cost, Funding, and Workforce Impact
White House and Pentagon briefings have suggested an initial $25 billion appropriation as part of a much larger, multi-year package. Broader estimates project program
Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin
Golden Dome: and What’s Coming Next
costs ranging from $175 billion to more than $500 billion over two decades, depending on scope and technology maturity.
Unconfirmed job estimates of 4,000 to 5,000 new positions have circulated locally, but federal agencies have not released workforce projections. The sector already pays well: median salaries for aerospace engineers in the Huntsville area exceed $110,000, with advanced manufacturing roles averaging $75,000 to $90,000, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
Rapid hiring could put new pressure on housing, transportation, and utilities—similar to earlier boom cycles during the Apollo program and the Strategic Defense Initiative. Universities including UAH, Alabama A&M, and Calhoun Community College are already expanding aerospace, engineering, and cybersecurity programs to align with expected workforce needs.
Cold War Legacy and Strategic Context
During the Cold War (1948–1991), U.S. defense spending often exceeded 6–7% of GDP annually, driving breakthroughs in aerospace,
computing, and missile technology.
The era’s global proxy wars claimed millions of lives, including 37 service members from Huntsville in Vietnam and 23 from Madison and Limestone counties in Korea.
Locally, defense investment fueled rapid growth—transforming Redstone Arsenal, building Cummings Research Park, and spurring population increases that reshaped Huntsville’s economy and infrastructure. The Golden Dome program taps this legacy: it offers promise for technological innovation and economic vitality, while underscoring that large-scale defense initiatives carry far-reaching costs and consequences.
The China Factor
The strategic driver behind Golden Dome is China’s accelerating missile and space-denial capabilities. Open-source intelligence confirms:
• Ground-based anti-satellite lasers capable of disrupting or damaging satellite sensors.
• Maneuverable “dogfighting” satellites designed to interfere with or disable U.S. space assets.
• Kinetic anti-satellite weap-
ons, including a 2007 test that destroyed China’s own Fengyun-1C satellite.
• Hypersonic missile programs such as the YJ-21 and DF-17 glide vehicles, which threaten to outpace current missile-defense systems.
These developments are shaping U.S. defense priorities—and ensuring that Huntsville, home to the Missile Defense Agency, Space Development Agency, and NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, remains integral to next-generation missile defense planning.
Looking Ahead Golden Dome is not yet fully
funded, but:
• Prototyping work is underway.
• Testing goals are defined for 2028.
• Defense contractors are expanding facilities and supply chains.
The program’s scope, cost, and local impact will become clearer as official contracting decisions are released in the coming months. For now, Huntsville stands at a strategic threshold—ready to leverage its engineering expertise, testing infrastructure, and institutional depth to support what could become its largest defense-driven growth cycle in decades. w
Torch Co-founder Bill Roark Speaks at U.S Senate Committee Hearing: Shares Support for Employee Stock Ownership Legislation
On Thursday, July 24, Bill Roark, a Huntsville resident and co-founder of Torch Technologies, appeared before the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee in Washington, D.C.
Roark spoke to the committee to share his support for the Promotion and Expansion of Private Employee Ownership Act.
The hearing coincided with the introduction of the bipartisan bill, which is sponsored by Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH). The bill was referred to the Senate Finance Committee on the same day.
According to Senator Daines' official website, the bill, "...bolsters the growth of S corporations that are owned by Employee Stock Ownership Plans (S-ESOP) and eliminates barriers that businesses face in establishing a new S-ESOP or expanding the employee-ownership stake in an S corporation."
Roark is a board member of the Employee-owned S Corporations of America (ESCA).
In his testimony, Roark said that Torch supports ESCA's bipartisan legislation.
Roark said the bill would, "… encourage more employee ownership by providing incentives for S corporation business owners to sell to an ESOP or be acquired by an S-ESOP company when transitioning out of their business.“
During the hearing, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville introduced Roark to the committee.
"He's a champion for employee ownership, and he has led multiple companies to national recognition [thanks] to his core values. As CEO of Torch Technologies, Mr. Roark implemented an employee-owned ownership program from the company's inception with the goal of becoming a 100% S Corp employee stock ownership plan. His company achieved that goal in just under 10
years," Tuberville said.
Although he announced his retirement in March of this year, Roark remains heavily involved with the company and serves as Executive Chairman of the Starfish Holdings Board of Directors and as a member of the Freedom Real Estate Board of Directors. Starfish Holdings is the parent company of Torch Technologies.
During the hearing, Roark shared that Torch's current annual revenue exceeds $800 million. Roark said his company's achievements are a direct result of being fully owned by its employees.
"The success of Torch can be attributed to our employee ownership model, which gives every employee a stake in the outcome and treats them as owners. We have recently certified as an Evergreen company, committing to remain in business for the next 100 years," Roark explained.
Roark noted that expanding access to employee ownership could significantly improve retirement outcomes for American workers.
"This initiative would allow more American workers to enjoy the benefits and meaningful retirement savings that we at Torch have experienced through employee ownership," Roark said.
During the hearing, Senator Tuberville took time to explore Roark's perspective in more detail through direct questions.
One question Tuberville asked was, "How can we help on the federal level to make ESOP structure more viable for that?"
Roark answered Tuberville and said there are some areas in which the
By: Katie
bill could be clarified, which, when completed, will help to strengthen ESOP programs.
"The ESOP is a wonderful tool and it provides stability for the employees and provides a retirement path for them as well," Roark said.
Roark concluded his answer by saying, "I think the more that we can refine the regulations around it to encourage people to be able to do this, clear up the rules on how the evaluations are done, so that it's clear what needs to be done. I think those would be great helps."
As of press time, the Promotion and Expansion of Private Employee Ownership Act awaits further action from the Senate Finance Committee and has not yet been scheduled for a vote. w
Holt / Photos courtesy of Senator Tuberville YouTube
Golden Dome and SPACECOM in Limbo as Huntsville Waits on Washington
By: Mike Easterling
They threw a threepart party near the end of the second day of the Space & Missile Defense Symposium on Wednesday at the Von Braun Center.
First up was a combined Salute to the Warfighter and Oath of Enlisted Ceremony, complete with a champagne toast shared by the families of new enlistees and Army, Air Force, and Navy brass. The festivities continued in the South Hall with an invitation-only VIP Reception, before moving to the banquet rooms for the Davidson Award Dinner.
But even with a record-breaking 7,300 attendees and 300 companies hosting exhibitions, a pall hung over the event — at least for reporters. The most anticipated topic of the 28th annual symposium, the proposed multi-billion-dollar Golden Dome missile shield, had been pulled from the agenda by Pete Hegseth’s Department of Defense.
His office ordered Golden Dome pulled from the lineup, and advised government workers to be tight-lipped. The gag order seeped into the broader symposium, with company representatives treading carefully.
Public Affairs Specialist Ryan Keith of Missile Defense Agency (MDA) confirmed to the Huntsville Business Journal the “Golden Dome for American Industry Summit,’’ which morphed from Iron Dome to Next Generation to its current name, will proceed today but is closed to the public and press as part of DoD’s ongoing battle against leaks.
The event, which will conclude the conference, is sponsored by MDA, an agency not affiliated with the SMD Symposium – Defending America at Home and Abroad. Attendance is limited to government employees and contractors.
As the conference got underway earlier in the week, an SMD Symposium spokesman told Politico, “A lot of [attendees] are coming this year because of Golden Dome. Unfortunately, last week, [the Defense Secretary’s office] came out and said they don’t want us talking about
Golden Dome during the symposium.”
Also of high local interest is U.S. Space Command (SPACECOM) and its ultimate destination. While it was addressed on Tuesday, there was still no definitive answer on whether it will remain in Colorado Springs or move to Huntsville.
Alabama’s congressional brigade have insisted for months SPACECOM is coming to the Rocket City, but a final decision has yet to be announced.
Gen. Stephen N. Whiting, Commander of SPACECOM, updated the readiness of space forces and discussed why it’s important. He didn’t address the battle for the command headquarters.
“At U.S. Space Command,’’ Whiting said, “our guiding principle is clear. To secure peace, we must be well-prepared for conflict in space. And if deterrence fails, we will fight and win. We uphold this principle in the face of expanding operational threats, which are being fielded deliberately and specifically to challenge our collective security. This is no exaggeration. The tenets of international space stability that have made us all more secure and prosperous during the space age are at risk.’’
Late Wednesday afternoon, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle watched as attendees filed past in a hallway of the VBC on their way to the South Hall shindig. He said that as Huntsville’s business community continues to grow, particularly on Redstone Arsenal, all his administration can do is mark time and be ready, whether that means preparing for SPACECOM’s possible transfer to Huntsville or determining how much input local and regional companies will have on Golden Dome.
“We’re all in a wait-and-see situation,’’ he said. “The word will come out of Washington, so we’re waiting on that word to come.’’ w
Stites & Harbison Opens Office in Huntsville
Stites & Harbison, PLLC has opened a new office in Huntsville, Ala., marking the law firm’s first location in Alabama.
Stites & Harbison is a nationally recognized, full-service law firm with multiple offices across eight states — Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, and Virginia. The firm represents clients throughout the United States and internationally. Tracing its origins to 1832, Stites & Harbison is known for managing sophisticated transactions, challenging litigation, and complex regulatory matters on a daily basis.
“With a diverse roster of clients conducting business in and around Alabama, establishing a presence in Huntsville was a natural next step,” said Marjorie A. Farris, Chair of Stites & Harbison. “We’re excited to expand our full-service legal practice in
Alabama and enhance the support we provide to clients across the state and beyond.”
Construction attorney Joshua K. Chesser (Josh), who joined Stites & Harbison in 2024, will serve as the Office Executive Member of the Huntsville office. He plans to split
his time between the Nashville and Huntsville offices. In addition to Chesser, Joseph V. Ronderos Jr., a business litigator, and Kimberly Vines, Ph.D., a patent attorney, will also spend
Photos courtesy of Stites & Harbison
time in the Huntsville office. All are admitted to practice in Alabama.
The new Huntsville office is located near the Huntsville Medical District, immediately adjacent to downtown Huntsville.
For more information, visit www.stites. com. w
Pictured left to right: Joseph Ronderos, Kimbery Vines, and Joshua Chesser
Huntsville Architecture Firm Fuqua & Partners Joins McMillan Pazdan Smith
Photos courtesy of McMillan Pazdan Smith
McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture (MPS) has announced that Fuqua & Partners Architects (FPA), a progressive community-based architecture, interiors, and planning firm operating in Huntsville, Alabama since 1983, has joined McMillan Pazdan Smith. The acquisition represents a strategic growth investment in Alabama and southern Tennessee with a tenth studio office for Southeastfocused MPS.
“With its welcoming and peoplecentered culture and growing diversity of commercial, civic, education, and healthcare environments, Huntsville is an exciting community for McMillan Pazdan Smith to serve and support,” says Chad Cousins, CEO of McMillan Pazdan Smith. “Fuqua & Partners is aligned with the same strong values, community focus, and design excellence that enables MPS to serve clients insightfully and successfully. In partnership together, we look forward to supporting the vitality of communities, commerce, and campuses throughout the rapidly growing North Alabama area.”
“Our firm is proud of how the buildings we’ve designed have had a positive and long-term impact on the people and communities we serve,” said FPA founding principal,
Joe Fuqua. “Joining with MPS will offer our clients enhanced project expertise and support, setting current and future clients up for long-term success. It will also provide new and exciting opportunities for the talented designers and architects that have made FPA one of the leading firms in North Alabama.”
FPA’s design portfolio includes significant projects in Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, and Louisiana. The firm designed the award-winning Huntsville Transit Transfer Station, a building that combines functional efficiency with environmental consciousness. In 2023, they completed the Discovery Life Sciences Global Headquarters on the Huntsville campus of HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology.
FPA leadership and 30 team members will be integrated into MPS’ collaborative practice area teams, while continuing to serve their local clients from the studio’s location at 100 Church Street SW, Suite 700, Huntsville, Alabama 35801.
AEC Advisors (www.aecadvisors.com), through its registered broker-dealer affiliate AEC Transaction Services LLC, was the exclusive financial advisor to Fuqua & Partners Architects. w
A New Era of Sinus Care Arrives in Huntsville with Breathe Better Institute
A new kind of healthcare experience has officially arrived in Huntsville. The Breathe Better Institute, now open at The Range on Governors Drive, is redefining how chronic sinus and allergy issues are treated—offering patients fast relief through minimally invasive, in-office procedures.
Located at 3810 Governors Drive, Suite 200, Breathe Better is Huntsville’s premier clinic dedicated solely to in-office sinus surgery. By focusing exclusively on advanced treatments like balloon sinuplasty, the practice eliminates the need for hospital visits, long recovery periods, and excessive medical appointments. Most patients are back to work the very next day.
Jeremiah House, CEO and cofounder, spent years watching patients endure the inefficiencies of traditional ENT care. “We built Breathe Better to offer a faster, more comfortable, and more personal solution to chronic
sinus problems,” House said. “Most people don’t realize surgery doesn’t have to mean the operating room. Our goal is to change that mindset and change lives.”
That mission is clear throughout the Breathe Better experience. Consultation appointments are longer than average, typically 45 minutes, to ensure patients have time to ask questions, receive imaging, and walk away
with a personalized care plan. Testing, diagnostics, and treatment all happen under one roof in a boutique, state-ofthe-art setting.
The approach is timely. ENT wait times in Huntsville often stretch 6 to 12 weeks. Breathe Better offers same-week appointments, with many new patients seen within 48 hours. And with insurance typically covering the procedures, costs to patients can be significantly lower, up to 50% less than traditional hospital-based surgery.
“We’re not just treating symptoms,” said Dr. John Stewart, the clinic’s lead ENT provider. “We’re solving the underlying issues. That means better results, quicker recoveries, and happier patients.”
For the founders, this clinic represents more than just a business; it’s a response to an unmet need. While other ENT clinics may offer sinus procedures, they often do so in hospitals or
as part of a broader menu of services. Breathe Better focuses entirely on sinus and allergy relief, streamlining the patient journey for speed, simplicity, and effectiveness.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit www.BreatheBetterHuntsville.com. w
Photos courtesy of Breathe Better
Bank Independent School Share Drive
Supports Local Children
The 12th annual Helping Hands Foundation and Bank Independent School Share drive conducted from June 30 through July 18 contributed a total of $1,492.85 in cash and an additional 3,771 school supply items to local partner organizations.
“We’ve worked hard to make giving easier and more accessible for everyone,” said Hallie Mauldin, Culture and Engagement Officer at Bank Independent. “By simplifying the donation process, we’re empowering our customers, team members, and neighbors to take part in strengthening their communities. We’re committed to finding new ways to increase involvement and ensure our efforts leave a lasting mark where it matters most.”
To make contributing more convenient, the drive accepted monetary donations through PayPal, while all Bank Independent sales offices served as drop-off locations for supplies. A special collection event was also held on July 18 at two Walmart stores—Cloverdale Road in Florence and Highway 72 in Madison—to further boost community participation.
Over the past 12 years, the School Share initiative has generated a total financial impact of $334,242.23 across the communities Bank Independent serves. “School Share continues to be a powerful example of what we can achieve together,” said Macke Mauldin, CEO of Bank Independent. “Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’re able to equip students with the tools they need to succeed in the classroom. This initiative reflects our shared commitment to investing in the future of our children and the strength of our community.”
Bank Independent partners with local organizations across its seven-county footprint to ensure that donations are distributed to area families in need. This year, donations will be distributed through Sidney's Safe in Lauderdale and Colbert County, Teacher Supply Depot in Lauderdale County, DHR of Franklin County, DHR of Lawrence County, DHR of Limestone County, Committee on Church Cooperation in Morgan County, and Free 2 Teach in Madison County.
BRIEFCASE
Robins & Morton Celebrates Completion of First High-Bay Facility at Redstone Gateway
Construction firm Robins & Morton and COPT Defense Properties marked the completion of 9700 Advanced Gateway, a 50,000-square-foot high-bay facility located at Redstone Gateway, a mixed-use development along Rideout Road near Redstone Arsenal’s Gate 9.
The pre-engineered metal building is the first of its kind at Redstone Gateway and the closest available to Redstone Arsenal. The facility features a unique concept, allowing multiple tenants to have office space at the front and high-bay research and development areas in the remainder of the building. It also features the capability to dock a truck or drive directly into the high-bay Space.
“We are proud to offer the first to the commands on Redstone Arsenal is strong,” said James Lomax, Vice President of Asset Management & Leasing at COPT Defense Properties.
“The completion of this project marks the delivery of another state-of-the-art facility as part of our longstanding partnership with COPT Defense Properties,” said Nick James, Robins & Morton Project Manager. “We began serving our clients at Redstone Gateway in 2010, and we are excited for its continued growth.”
Robins & Morton served as the general contractor. Nola Van Peursem Architects was the architect. w
Tangled String Festival Expands to John Hunt Park for 2025
The Huntsville Music Office has announced a new partnership with the Tangled String Music & Arts Festival, which will relocate to John Hunt Park
for its upcoming event on October 3–4, 2025.
Previously held at Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment, the festival is shifting to the larger, more open festival field adjacent to the Sand Volleyball Complex at John Hunt Park. Organizers say the new venue will offer increased parking, expanded green space, improved sightlines, and greater flexibility for music and art installations.
"The Tangled String Music & Arts Festival team is so grateful to partner with the Huntsville Music Office in our most ambitious festival to date,” said Danny Davis, owner of Tangled String Studios and festival organizer. “Come celebrate the return of our festival adventures in this beautiful, new setting.”
Expect the same stellar music lineup, an immersive arts and crafts fair experience and curated vibes with more room to dance, play and explore, plus some exciting new programming elements to be announced soon.
“We’re excited to help reimagine the festival in a place that offers wide open skies and endless opportunities,” said Huntsville Music Officer Matt Mandrella. “John Hunt Park gives Danny and his team the freedom to amplify everything there is to love about this event—music, art, food and community.” w
ServisFirst Bank Maintains Top 5 Spot for Performance in $10B–$50B Bank Tier
ServisFirst Bank has secured the No. 5 spot on American Banker’s annual ranking of top-performing publicly traded banks with assets between $10 billion and $50 billion, according to data compiled by Capital Performance Group using S&P Global Market Intelligence and regulatory filings. The ranking is based on year-end 2024 financial data.
The Birmingham, Ala.-based lender, a subsidiary of ServisFirst Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: SFBS), was previously ranked fourth on the same list a year earlier. The bank reported a threeyear average return on average equity
(ROAE) of 16.95 percent and a net interest margin of 2.82 percent for 2024.
“We are honored to once again be recognized among the top-performing banks in the country,” said Tom Broughton, chairman, president and chief executive of ServisFirst Bank.
“Our consistent performance is the result of disciplined growth, strong client relationships, and a relentless focus on efficiency.”
The ranking reflects broader trends across the banking sector, where institutions with solid loan growth outperformed peers amid a challenging earnings environment. According to Claude Hanley, a partner at Capital Performance Group, “good old-fashioned loan growth” helped buoy the top-ranked banks.
ServisFirst, the only Alabama-based bank to place in the top ten, manages approximately $18 billion in assets and is among the top 80 banks nationwide by performance metrics. w
Strategic Acquisition
Broadens Frazier & Deeter’s Footprint and Sector Expertise
Frazier & Deeter (FD), an accounting and business advisory firm, has acquired Anglin Reichmann Armstrong, P.C. (Anglin), a firm with offices in Huntsville, Alabama; Pensacola, Florida; and Winter Haven, Florida. The acquisition extends FD’s footprint in the Southeastern United States and adds to its capabilities in several industry sectors.
The acquisition expands Frazier & Deeter’s footprint across Alabama, Central Florida, and the Florida Panhandle, creating a natural connection with the firm’s existing offices in Atlanta, Tampa, and Nashville. It represents a key step in the firm’s long-term growth plans and reinforces its commitment to supporting closely held businesses, while also growing its presence in specialized sectors with broader national and international reach.
“For more than three decades, Anglin has built a strong reputation for fostering client trust, delivering technical excellence and cultivating a people-first culture, particularly in the government
contracting and construction industries,” said Seth McDaniel, Partner and CEO of Frazier & Deeter. “Their entrepreneurial mindset integrates seamlessly with our firm’s values, and we are excited to welcome the Anglin team as we continue to broaden our footprint and serve clients.”
In addition to strengthening core service areas such as tax, audit and advisory, Anglin brings specialized expertise in Government Contracting (GovCon), Construction, Client Accounting & Advisory Services (CAAS) and HR Consulting Services. These capabilities significantly deepen FD’s industry specializations and scale its advisory platform into the high-demand GovCon sector.
“Our firms have enjoyed a collaborative relationship for years through the CPAmerica network,” said Brandon Smith, Managing Partner of Anglin. “Joining FD allows us to build on that partnership and unlock new opportunities for our clients and teams, supported by the extensive resources of a nationally recognized firm that aligns with our values and vision.”
FD will fully integrate Anglin into
BRIEFCASE
its broader operational infrastructure, providing immediate access to firm-wide support services including technology, finance, marketing and talent development. Operating under the Frazier & Deeter global brand, the combined team is well-positioned to accelerate growth, amplify market influence and invest in the next generation of industry leadership and professionals. w
Rocket City Marathon Announces First-Ever Philanthropic Partner
The Huntsville Track Club and Huntsville Hospital Foundation (HHF) announced today a new long-term philanthropic partnership between Rocket City Marathon Race Weekend and HHF, marking the first official charitable alignment in the marathon’s 49-year history.
Proceeds from the 2025 Rocket City Marathon Race Weekend, happening Dec. 12–14, will help fund the development of a therapy playground for Huntsville Hospital for Women & Chil-
RECOGNITION
HudsonAlpha Welcomes New Vice President for Economic Development and Commercialization
HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology recently welcomed Dillon Fritz, PhD, as its new Vice President for Economic Development and Commercialization.
Fritz brings nearly two decades of experience building and leading translational research programs, innovation ecosystems, and startup ventures across the academic, clinical, and international biotech sectors. He most recently served as Entrepreneur-in-Residence and Director of the NIH-funded Gulf Coast Consortium Research Evaluation and Commercialization Hub (GCC REACH) at the Texas Medical Center in Houston, where he guided academic and clinical innovators in advancing early-stage biomedical technologies toward commercialization and venture formation.
“We’re excited to welcome Dillon to the HudsonAlpha team,” said Neil Lamb, PhD, HudsonAlpha President. “We are energized by the depth of commercialization and translational background he brings to our economic development team.”
Fritz earned his undergraduate and doctoral degrees from Florida State University and Florida State University College of Medicine. He conducted his postdoctoral work as a National Cancer Institute Fellow at the Moffitt Cancer Center.
dren’s Pediatric Therapy and Audiology Department, now located at 107 Governors Drive SW, Unit 101. While the playground is the first focus of this new partnership, future proceeds will continue to support key funding priorities identified by HHF – particularly those that benefit pediatric patients and families served by Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children.
This outdoor therapeutic space will support children with physical, developmental or sensory challenges who visit the hospital multiple times each week for therapy. More than just a playground, this innovative environment will promote physical recovery, emotional well-being, and developmental growth in a joyful setting.
“This partnership represents a natural alignment between health, wellness and community,” said Eric Fritz, Rocket City Marathon race director. “Our runners come to Rocket City to challenge themselves and celebrate fitness, and now they’ll also have the opportunity to make a real difference for children and families in our community. We’re proud to run for a cause that’s both meaningful and local.”
“Rocket City Marathon and Hunts-
ville Hospital have both been part of this community’s fabric for generations—the marathon in its 49th year and our public hospital for more than 130,” said Sarah Savage-Jones, president of Huntsville Hospital Foundation.
“This partnership brings together two groups with a shared commitment to health, access, and well-being for all. This new therapy playground will be a place where children can heal, grow, and just be kids. We’re incredibly grateful to the Huntsville Track Club, every runner, and the sponsors who are helping make this vision a reality.”
The 2025 Rocket City Marathon Race Weekend is expected to draw more than 5,000 participants across multiple events, including Friday’s expo; Saturday’s 1-Mile Family Fun Run, 5K and 10K; and Sunday’s premier half marathon and marathon.
Funds raised through this year’s race will play a critical role in bringing the therapy playground to life, in combination with other generous contributions and community donors.
To learn more about Rocket City Marathon and register, visit www.rocketcitymarathon.run. w
RECOGNITION
Mary Kate Moore Joins ServisFirst Bank Team
ServisFirst Bank has announced the addition of Mary Kate Moore as a Private Banker for ServisFirst Bank Huntsville. In this role, she will be responsible for developing and managing relationships, providing tailored banking solutions, and delivering personalized service to meet the complex financial needs of her clients.
“We’re excited to have Mary Kate Moore join the ServisFirst Bank Huntsville team,” said Andy Kattos, Regional CEO of ServisFirst Bank Huntsville. “With a background in legal services and donor relations, Mary Kate brings a thoughtful, people-centered approach to private banking. Her passion for relationship building and commitment to service will be a strong asset to our clients and our team.”
Mary Kate earned her degree in Political Science from Mississippi State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration at Clemson University.
North Alabama International Trade Association (NAITA)
Showcases New Brand at Space & Missile Defense Symposium
The North Alabama International Trade Association (NAITA) introduced its refreshed brand identity, updated website, and new promotional video during the 2025 Space & Missile Defense Symposium in Huntsville, Alabama.
Representatives from the NAITA team and board members, alongside government officials, Huntsville/Madison County Chamber representatives, C3 Labs, and representatives from the Office of the Consulate General of Canada, marked this important milestone and highlighted NAITA’s renewed commitment to innovation, international collaboration, and economic growth.
“This launch introduces a refreshed visual identity and an enhanced communications platform that reflects NAITA’s continued commitment to empower-
ing businesses in North Alabama to thrive in the global marketplace and a renewed commitment to our partners in the North American market,” said Daryl Davis, NAITA President.
NAITA worked with C3 Labs, a strategic creative agency with offices in Alabama and Ontario, on the project from early concept development through implementation. The agency developed creative communications designed to position the organization for future growth while maintaining elements of its established identity.
The new identity has rolled out across all digital platforms, communications, and member materials. w
Huntsville Lands Alabama’s First IKEA, Opening 2026
IKEA plans to open its first Alabama store in Huntsville in early 2026,
Sameer Singhal, CFD Research President & CEO, Joins Board of ServisFirst Bank
ServisFirst Bank has announced the addition of Sameer Singhal, President and CEO of CFD Research, to the ServisFirst Bank Huntsville Advisory Board, effective September 2025.
Singhal is the President and CEO of CFD Research, where he leads the company’s strategic vision and long-term growth. Prior to CFD Research, Singhal spent seven years at Nitronec Corporation, a venture-backed semiconductor startup in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he helped guide early-stage technologies through to commercial product launch.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Sameer to our advisory board,” states Andy Kattos, Regional CEO of ServisFirst Bank Huntsville. “He brings a unique perspective from the government contracting industry and technology world, and his deep involvement in Huntsville’s business community makes him a fantastic addition to our team.”
Singhal holds a Bachelor of Science from Georgia Tech and a Master of Science from Stanford University, both in Materials Science and Engineering.
the company announced on Tuesday. The Swedish home furnishings giant will take over space at the University Place Shopping Center, at 6125 University Place Drive, in the city’s bustling retail corridor.
The location, just off Research Park Boulevard and accessible via Interstate 565, sits near the MidCity development and the Bridge Street Town Centre.
“We are thrilled to open our first store in Alabama to bring the dream of a better home within reach for more people across the country.” said Javier Quiñones, CEO & chief sustainability officer, IKEA U.S.
The 46,000-square-foot store will feature fully furnished room displays and “local living” designs tailored to the Huntsville market. About 5,000 products will be on view, with more than 2,000 items — including home accessories and 75 types of small furniture — available for same-day purchase.
Larger items, such as sofas and beds, will be available to order online, with free in-store pickup or home delivery for a small fee. Customers shopping on IKEA’s website will also be able to
choose the Huntsville store as a pickup location.
The store will include a central planning area where customers can book one-on-one design consultations for kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and small-space layouts.
IKEA Huntsville will also feature the Swedish food experience, offering a variety of hot and cold IKEA favorites like meatballs, plant balls, hot dogs, veggie dogs, plant dogs, cinnamon buns, and more—available to enjoy in-store or take home for later.
In keeping with the company’s sustainability efforts, the store will include an “As-is” department, selling gently used and discontinued items at reduced prices.
“I’m excited to bring the IKEA experience and stylish, functional, and affordable home furnishings to Alabama!” said John Achillea, market area manager, IKEA U.S. “We are meeting the many people where they are, and I’m thrilled that we are continuing to grow our presence in the South.” w
Bank Independent’s Penny Camp Named to Leadership Alabama Class XXXV
Bank Independent has announced that Penny Camp, Executive Vice President and newly appointed Chief Administrative Officer, has been named to Leadership Alabama Class XXXV, a prestigious statewide leadership program that brings together accomplished professionals to foster stronger communities and a brighter future for Alabama.
“Penny is a thoughtful, forward-thinking leader who deeply understands the importance ofpeople in building strong organizations and communities,” said Bank Independent CEO, Macke Mauldin. “Her selection to Leadership Alabama is a testament to her passion for service and her commitment to making a lasting impact—not only within our bank but across the entire state.”
Camp joined Bank Independent in 2002 as a Sales Manager and has earned increasing levels of responsibility throughout her career, including her promotion to Chief People Officer in 2019. She is a graduate of Union University and holds executive education certifications from the Wharton School of Business and UVA Darden.
