“The U.S. Army selected Veracity to develop a more objective and trustworthy testing capability than they had,” said Gary Hensley, President of Veracity. “We were able to provide a proof of concept which can give the Army a viable solution for the inspection of rotor blades.”

The only utilized inspection method has been the “Tap Test” where a technician taps the surface of the rotor blade with a small hammer and then listens for any changes in the tapping sound which could indicate a possible defect. Even with the most skilled technician, this testing method is very subjective and can result in erroneous findings. The Veracity solution eliminates the subjectivity while maintaining the flexibility of being able to conduct the test either in the field or at a depot.

While Veracity has successfully tested rotor blades on the UH-60 and CH-47, this technology has a wide range of applications and has been successfully implemented in detecting and mapping delaminations in composite materials and corrosion in metal materials.     
 
ABOUT VERACITY TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS
Veracity is a leader in developing customized solutions to provide faster, better, and more cost effective non-destructive inspection approaches for customers in both the aerospace and defense and the power generator industries. Veracity won the 2010 Aviation Week MRO of the Year Award for Innovative Supplier/Services Provider. The company operates within the Services Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

AGC Aerospace & Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs. Operating in multiple locations across the globe, capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

The award recognizes Oklahoma aerospace and defense companies, government agencies, teams, or individuals making a significant impact to cost savings or revenue enhancements through innovation.  Oklahoma State University Multispectral Laboratories (UML) and Zivko Aeronautics, Inc. earned the public and private sector awards, respectively.

“The innovative vision and persistence in bringing ideas to practice demonstrated by both UML and Zivko earned them this award, ” commented Jeff Davis, partner at Acorn.  “It’s one thing to come up with creative ideas, it’s another to get them off the drawing board and into the ‘real world’.”

“Members of the Oklahoma aerospace and defense industry are innovative and productive,” stated Rick Nagel, partner at Acorn.  “The overall economic climate created financial challenges, but that only encouraged this industry’s visionaries to do more with less.”

UML’s has been developing advanced technology to respond to weapons of mass destruction, and on a business front, pulling together PrimeWin, a program to help federal contracting agencies connect with contractors.  Major General Al Goodbary, US Army (Retired), director of strategic business acquisition, accepted the award for UML.

Zivko continues to make strides in engineering aircraft instrument enclosure pods.  These pods, made of composite materials, are key additions to enhance the capabilities of both manned and unmanned aircraft without a substantial increase in weight to the aircraft.  Dan Bierly, accepted the award on behalf of Zivko.

About Acorn Growth Companies

Acorn Growth Companies, a private equity firm focused exclusively on aerospace and defense opportunities, oversees management and control of AGC Aerospace & Defense. Today, the firm has over $100 million under management and operating companies across the United States with operations worldwide-all under its primary banner, AGC Aerospace & Defense.

AGC Aerospace & Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs.  Operating in multiple locations across the globe, capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

The program calls for aircraft, maintenance, pilots, trainers, and materials in support of training sensor operators prior to deployment. Valair, along with subcontractors Commuter Air Technology (CAT), also an AGC Aerospace & Defense company, and Grey Aviation, boasts years of airborne contract ISR and specialized ISR training experience.

“We value an opportunity to continue supporting our troops by providing them training that will mirror conditions in the field,” stated Darryl Wilkerson, President of Valair and the AGC Integrated Defense Group. “As seasoned warfighters, our trainers understand the elements critical to a successful mission – they’ve been through it.”

“This contract is a perfect fit given our current involvement with Project Liberty, and our continued focus on expanding the ISR reach of our Integrated Defense Group,” commented Rick Nagel, partner at AGC Aerospace & Defense. “As providers of special operations services, training, and field support, both Valair and CAT have the track record and experience to insure this program’s success.”

Valair, which is located at the Wiley Post airport in Oklahoma City, has a state-of-the-art training facility and experience with a variety of single and twin-engine aircraft and aircraft systems. Commuter Air Technology, also within the AGC Integrated Defense Group, is currently a subcontractor on the Project Liberty program.

ABOUT VALAIR AVIATION
Valair functions as a turnkey maintenance, repair, and overhaul company for private, public, and military aircraft. The company specializes in heavy maintenance, avionics, interiors, and painting and also serves as an FBO at the Wiley Post Airport in Oklahoma City, Okla. The company operates within the Integrated Defense Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

AGC Aerospace & Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs. Operating in multiple locations across the globe, capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

ABOUT ACORN GROWTH COMPANIES
Acorn Growth Companies, a private equity firm focused exclusively on aerospace and defense opportunities, oversees management and control of AGC Aerospace & Defense. Today, the firm has over $100 million under management and operating companies across the United States with operations worldwide-all under its primary banner, AGC Aerospace & Defense.

AGC Aerospace & Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs. Operating in multiple locations across the globe, capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

Veracity, a technology company focused on non-destructive evaluations, inspections, and testing worked with the US Air Force to develop a more cost effective, accurate, and safer way of testing the structural integrity of aircraft. The new solution requires two technicians about 1.5 hours to perform the test which is a significant reduction in the man hours required from the previous testing method.

“We are honored to be the recipient of this award. The Veracity team invests a great deal of themselves in problem solving for our customers,” said Gary Hensley, president of Veracity. “We were pleased that we provided a solution to our Air Force customer which helps get the aircraft back in service faster and is more cost effective.”

“I’m pleased that Veracity has been recognized with this prestigious global award from the industry’s leading publication,” commented Jeff Davis, partner at AGC Aerospace & Defense. “It is always a challenge to introduce innovative technology and solutions to the aerospace sector. We are all gratified that the hard-working team at Veracity has been recognized for their accomplishments and congratulate them for a job well done.”

ABOUT VERACITY TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

Veracity is a leader in developing customized solutions to provide faster, better, and more cost effective non-destructive inspection approaches for its customers in the aerospace and defense and power generator industries. Veracity operates within the Services Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

AGC Aerospace & Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs. Operating in multiple locations across the globe, capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

The ISO 9001 certification is awarded to those companies which meet global requirements set out to assure a systematic quality management system.

“As an ISO certified company, we’ve demonstrated our commitment to quality management, to meeting requirements from both our customers and the regulators,” said Darryl Wilkerson, President of Valair.  “From top to bottom, Valair employees continually strive to improve our performance and to enhance our customer’s satisfaction with our service.”
 
By achieving ISO certification Valair Aviation has proven its maintenance, repair, and overhaul efficiencies and processes. The ISO certification allows Valair to pursue new business in marketplaces that require the ISO certification. The company’s firm commitment to quality and professionalism has solidified its superior reputation earned over the last 12 years.

About Valair Aviation
Valair, for over 50 years, has acted as a turnkey maintenance, repair, and overhaul company for the general aviation, commercial, and military aerospace markets.  The company specializes in heavy maintenance, avionics, interiors, and painting and also serves as an FBO at the Wiley Post Airport in Oklahoma City, OK.  Valair operates within the Integrated Defense Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.
 
AGC Aerospace & Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs.  Operating in multiple locations across the globe, capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

“We are pleased to continue supporting Marine Special Operations training events.  The ALMBOS contract improves continuity and oversight and allows our customers better access to us,” said Darryl Wilkerson, CAT’s President and CEO.  “We’re also pleased to be teamed with another exceptional company like Jacobs Technology."

“The Marine Special Operations Battalions act as a command and control element, conducting multi-faceted counter-terrorist operations.  Frequently, this includes the application or integration of airborne ISR and fires – an area where CAT has a great deal of experience and expertise,” added CAT’s Vice President of Operations, Gary Ambrose.

CAT also provides ground training for manned and unmanned systems conducting ISR, close air support, casualty and medical evacuations, and other Special Operations missions.

ABOUT COMMUTER AIR TECHNOLOGY (CAT)

CAT focuses on delivery of certified aircraft and aircraft modifications, including high performance and flight characteristics enhancements, commuter and high-density passenger systems, military and special missions systems and support, reconfigurations, and cargo conversions.  The company’s services include consultation, pre-purchase inspection, engineering, and program management. CAT operates within the Integrated Defense Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

“As the technology and customer base from Veracity has expanded, so has our need for additional technical and operating support.  With over 30 years experience in nondestructive evaluation (NDE) engineering, program management, and business development experience, Mr. Andrew is well positioned to manage the day to day operations at Veracity,” said Gary Hensley, President of Veracity.

In addition to having started and managed a small business, Glenn’s experience includes 15 years with SAIC where he assembled and led teams from federal government, university and industry on NDE engineering development contracts.  He also led advanced NDE applications, transducer development and training program efforts at the division.  Glenn’s past experience includes work for General Dynamics Electric Boat Division where he spearheaded an independent R&D project to develop ultrasonic imaging technology and specialized sensors for NDE applications on submarines.
 
Glenn, a recipient of the McDonnell Douglas Model of Excellence and Silver Eagle Quality Awards, has authored numerous technical papers and articles for industry publications.  Glenn holds a BS in Ocean Engineering from the Florida Institute of Technology and an MS in Ocean Engineering from the University of Rhode Island.

“We are pleased to have achieved this milestone.  Becoming a certified AS9100 company demonstrates to our customers the commitment we have to repeatable quality delivery,” said Joe Johnson, President of ICI.

ICI has substantial heritage in successfully working on key programs with leading aerospace and defense companies as a small business supplier.  Being AS9100 certified will afford ICI greater access to Tier I and Tier II manufacturing companies in the immediate future.  The corporate quality policy, which is displayed throughout the facility, highlights ICI’s dedication:  “Integrated Composites, Inc. is committed to meeting customer requirements and increasing customer satisfaction through continual improvement of its products, services, and quality management system.”

Few companies are awarded AS9100 Certification without first being ISO certified; however, because of their strong pre-existing quality program, ICI felt confident moving directly to the AS9100 certification process. The accreditation assessment was performed in accordance with the quality system requirements for both AS9100 and ISO9001:2000, with a scope of registration that includes the “manufacture of composite structures for aerospace and military applications.”

ABOUT INTEGRATED COMPOSITES, INC.

ICI is a fully integrated design, development, and manufacturing company specializing in high-performance structures for aerospace, defense, marine, and industrial applications. The company’s 40,000 square foot facility is equipped with state-of-the-art design, tooling, and fabrication assets.  ICI operates within the Composites Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

“We are pleased to welcome Jeff to the APSE family,” commented Tracy Wimberly, President of APSE.  “Jeff’s tremendous experience in the aerospace and defense business will benefit our team.  He’s very familiar with both major OEMs and smaller manufacturers and MROs; and he knows both the sales and operating side of this business.”

As Vice President of Business Development, Gehring will be responsible for implementing strategies for growth and developing strategic alliances.  He will be based out of APSE’s office in Salt Lake City.

Gehring comes to APSE from Kitco Defense, where he served as the director of marketing and business development, overseeing strategic growth planning and leading key teams and initiatives with major OEMs.  Prior to Kitco, Gehring was employed at Wencor, a sister company to Kitco.  Gehring has a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Brigham Young University and earned his MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management.

About APSE
APSE is a leading third party logistics company specializing in on-site supply chain integration, inventory bin management, and full service kitting.  The company provides other value added services such as configuration management, distribution, and manufacture of component and sub assembly kits.  APSE procures hard to find parts for both military and commercial aircraft.  APSE operates within the Services Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

“Being recognized as a Platinum Preferred Supplier is confirmation of our commitment to our customers – of providing quality products on schedule with outstanding customer service,” commented Tracy Wimberly, President of APSE.

APSE is an aerospace and defense company jointly owned by the Cherokee Nation Businesses and Acorn Growth Companies.  The Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems honor is awarded to those suppliers who meet a stringent set of performance parameters including zero product defects, on time delivery, and a focus on customer satisfaction.

About APSE

APSE procures hard to find parts for both military and commercial aircraft.  In addition, APSE provides on-site supply chain integration, inventory bin management, and kitting services in addition to other value added services such as configuration management, distribution, and manufacture of component and sub assembly kits. APSE operates out of the Services Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

AGC Aerospace & Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs.  Operating in multiple locations across the globe, capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

For information: www.apseinc.com or www.agcaerospace.com or contact:

Jennyfer R. Guebert
AGC Aerospace & Defense
2701 Liberty Parkway, Suite 311

Midwest City, OK 73110

405-737-2676
 Ext. 2012

Tulsa, OK – November 17, 2009 – Veracity Technology Solutions (Veracity), an AGC Aerospace & Defense company, has delivered a new non-destructive inspection capability to the U.S. Air Force which reduces aircraft downtime and costs by speeding aft wing inspections.

The company delivered two customized inspection units to Tinker AFB in September that are specifically designed to locate cracks in the KC-135 aircraft.  An added benefit is that the new inspection replaces hazardous x-ray technology and will provide a much safer work environment.

“We are pleased that we had the opportunity to work with the government to improve this inspection process.  Technicians have qualified and validated the Veracity solution and based on the results, this technology will not only save a significant amount of money, but the aircraft will be back in service faster – and with the high operational tempo of our military, that’s critical,” said Gary Hensley, President of Veracity.

The routine aft wing inspections that aircraft are required to undergo are often time consuming and expensive – requiring six workers up to eight hours to conduct the initial evaluation. Using the Veracity solution, two technicians can evaluate the aircraft’s condition in about an hour.  Aircraft will be able to get to maintenance and repair sooner and the technicians can focus on other critical issues.

About Veracity Technology Solutions
Veracity is a leader in developing customized solutions to provide faster, better, and more cost effective non-destructive inspection approaches for its customers.  Veracity operates within the Services Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

AGC Aerospace & Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs.  Operating in multiple locations across the globe, capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

For information see www.veracityts.com or www.agcaerospace.com or contact:

Acorn Growth Companies, a private equity firm focused exclusively on aerospace and defense opportunities, was evaluated not only on their success regarding capital raised and profitability, but also on other criteria such as innovation, growth potential, and economic impact.  The company has been successful in identifying promising new companies and partnerships and in developing an operating brand, AGC Aerospace & Defense.

Partners Jeff Davis, Rick Nagel, and Warren Thomas accepted the award.

“Our success has been built on a combination of factors: support from the community, trust of our customers and investors, and hard work from our employees. We are both humbled and honored to be recognized with the most prestigious award in Oklahoma’s investment community,” said Davis.

“By adhering to an excellent strategy for identifying, sourcing, and executing opportunities, along with implementing a strong operational strategy, we’ve been able to increase shareholder value and contribute to the Oklahoma’s economic development,” said Nagel.

The Venture of the Year award is widely recognized as the pinnacle of achievement within Oklahoma’s equity investment community.

Members of The Oklahoma Venture Forum (OVF), a non-profit organization that promotes economic growth in Oklahoma, selected Acorn Growth Companies from a number of nominees.

“We had a large number of high-quality applicants this year.  Acorn Growth Companies’ efforts to partner with other investors, especially in the aerospace and defense industry, elevated the company above its peers,” said Mike LaBrie, OVF Chairman and attorney with McAfee & Taft. “This award has gone to other notable recipients in the past including, the Chesapeake Energy Corporation, StairMaster, and IMTEC which was recently acquired by 3M.”

Acorn Growth Companies oversees management and control of AGC Aerospace & Defense. Today, the firm has over $100 million under management and operating companies.

AGC Aerospace & Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs.   Operating in multiple locations across the United States and abroad, AGC Aerospace & Defense finances, engineers, manufactures, procures, repairs, modifies and overhauls aircraft components, subassemblies and systems.

Acorn Growth Companies partner Jeff Davis commented, “Being selected as a finalist is an honor, and we are humbled to be considered for such a prestigious award. Since our inception, we’ve developed a strong portfolio of aerospace and defense companies.  It’s rewarding to be recognized for our efforts in building one of the premier aerospace and defense focused private equity firms.”

The Oklahoma Venture Forum (OVF), a non-profit organization that promotes Oklahoma’s economic growth, evaluated nominees based on a number of criteria including capital raised, profitability, and management quality.  Past award recipients include the Chesapeake Energy Corporation, StairMaster, and IMTEC (now part of 3M).  OVF will select the winner and present the award at a banquet following the Bricktown Capital Conference on 26 October.

Acorn Growth Companies has over $100 million under management and operating companies across the United States with operations worldwide – all under its primary banner, AGC Aerospace & Defense.

For information: www.acorngrowthcompanies.com or contact

Jennyfer R. Guebert
AGC Aerospace & Defense
2701 Liberty Parkway, Suite 311

Midwest City, OK 73110

405-737-2676
Ext. 2012

Veracity president, Gary Hensley, stated, “A number of people have worked hard to launch this business through the development and sale of exceptional technology. We are pleased to be recognized as a finalist for this prestigious award.”  Nominees were evaluated based on product innovations, revenue growth, and market potential, among other attributes.

Veracity has been successful in adapting medical grade technology to provide leading edge non-destructive inspection technology and services to the global aerospace and power generation community.

The Oklahoma Venture Forum, the award sponsor, will select the winner; the award will be announced and presented at a banquet following the biennial Bricktown Capital Conference on 26 October.

AGC Aerospace & Defense, a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs, operates in multiple locations across the United States and abroad.  AGC Aerospace & Defense finances, engineers, manufactures, procures, repairs, modifies and overhauls aircraft components, subassemblies and systems. 

Acorn Growth Companies is a private equity firm focused exclusively on aerospace and defense opportunities.  Today, the firm has over $100 million under management and operating companies across the United States with operations worldwide – all under its primary banner, AGC Aerospace & Defense.

For information: www.agcaerospace.com or contact

Jennyfer R. Guebert
AGC Aerospace & Defense
2701 Liberty Parkway, Suite 311

Midwest City, OK 73110

405-737-2676
 Ext. 2012

Acorn Growth Companies, a private equity firm focused exclusively on Aerospace and Defense opportunities, oversees management and control of AGC Aerospace and Defense. Today, the firm has over $100 million under management and operating companies across the United States with operations worldwide-all under its primary banner, AGC Aerospace & Defense.

“Like us, many of our customers have deep ties to this community,” said Darryl Wilkerson, president of AGC Integrated Defense Group and acting president of The ServiCenter. “Offering a way for them to give back through the course of normal business transactions is another way to keep our community strong.”

Charities will receive an equal one-fifth share of all donations collected each quarter. The ServiCenter will give a 100 percent match for all donations given to Community Partner Program members through the Loyalty Program.

About the ServiCenter

The ServiCenter, an AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio company, serves the greater Oklahoma City aviation and aerospace market as fixed base operator and turnkey maintenance center at Wiley Post Airport. The ServiCenter employs more than 80 full and part-time employees and operates in 200,000 square feet of hangar and maintenance space.