www.acorngrowthcompanies.com

Unitech Achieves Nadcap Recertification

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Hayden, Idaho – March 9, 2010 – Unitech Composites & Structures, an AGC Aerospace & Defense company, successfully passed the recertification efforts to retain its Nadcap accreditation for special processing of honeycomb core and prepreg/adhesive bonding/resin film infusion.

Nadcap, an aerospace and automotive industry organization, is focused on developing a world-class industry supply-base. Unitech achieved the original certification in 2006. To obtain the Nadcap accreditation, companies undergo a rigorous audit process wherein independent inspectors review and assess manufacturing processes and products to assure a world-class quality standard.

“The Nadcap accreditation is highly sought after and difficult to achieve. The Unitech team, through high quality and manufacturing standards as well as close attention to continual improvement processes, has been able to maintain the company’s accreditation,” commented Al Haase, President of Unitech.

Unitech is a supplier and partner to both OEM and government on a number of contracts involving complex composite structures. The Nadcap recertification demonstrates Unitech’s commitment to maintain quality deliverables to the customers and partners.

ABOUT UNITECH COMPOSITES & STRUCTURES
Unitech is a world leader in designing and manufacturing composite structures in the commercial and military aerospace industries. The company maintains continued commitment to innovation, quality, and flexibility towards the requirements of individual airlines and OEMs. Unitech operates within the Composites 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.

Veracity Appoints COO

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Tulsa, Okla. – February 20, 2010 – Veracity Technology Solutions, an AGC Aerospace & Defense company, appointed Glenn Andrew as Chief Operating Officer last week.

“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.

ICI Earns AS9100 Certification

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Marina, CA – January 21, 2010 – Integrated Composites, Inc. (ICI), an AGC Aerospace & Defense Company, was awarded certification for the AS9100 International Aerospace Quality System Standard.

“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.

Acorn Growth Companies Featured on Oklahoma Technology Council Website

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Acorn Growth Companies, along with portfolio company Veracity Technology Solutions, were featured under the "Technology Spotlight" on the Oklahoma Technology Council's website (http://www.oktechcouncil.com/). The posting draws attention to the innovation within Acorn's portfolio of companies operating under the AGC Aerospace & Defense brand and highlights technology currently being used by the U.S. Air Force.

APSE Appoints New Business Development Vice President

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0600

Huntsville, Ala, – December 22, 2009 – Aerospace Products S.E. Inc. (APSE) announced the recent addition of Jeff Gehring as vice president of business development for the company.

“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.

AGC Aerospace & Defense Renames Portfolio Company

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0600

The ServiCenter becomes Valair Aviation

APSE Recognized As a Platinum Supplier

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0600

Huntsville, AL – November 24, 2009 – Aerospace Products S.E., Inc. (APSE), an AGC Aerospace & Defense Company, has earned the prestigious Northrop Grumman Platinum Preferred Supplier award.

“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 311â¨
Midwest City, OK 73110â¨
405-737-2676â¨ Ext. 2012

Veracity Improves KC-135 Aft Wing Inspection Process

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0600

Veracity Technology Solutions Improves Aircraft Aft Wing Inspection Process

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.

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

Jennyfer R. Guebert

AGC Aerospace & Defense

2701 Liberty Parkway, Suite 311â¨

Midwest City, OK 73110â¨

405-737-2676â¨Ext. 2012

www.agcaerospace.com

Acorn Growth Companies Wins Venture of the Year

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Oklahoma City, OK – October 28, 2009 – Acorn Growth Companies was awarded Oklahoma Business Roundtable’s Venture of the Year award by the Oklahoma Venture Forum Monday night.

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 Recognized as Finalist for Venture of the Year

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Oklahoma City, OK – October 26, 2009 – Acorn Growth Companies, a private equity firm focused exclusively on aerospace and defense opportunities, has been selected as a finalist for The Oklahoma Business Roundtable’s Venture of the Year.

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 311â¨
Midwest City, OK 73110â¨
405-737-2676â¨Ext. 2012

Veracity Technology Solutions Finalist for Most Promising New Business

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Oklahoma City, OK – October 26, 2009 – Veracity Technology Solutions (Veracity), an AGC Aerospace & Defense company, has been selected as a finalist for the 2009 Oklahoma Business Roundtable Most Promising New Business Award.

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 311â¨
Midwest City, OK 73110â¨
405-737-2676â¨ Ext. 2012

AGC Aerospace & Defense Appoints Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

AGC Aerospace & Defense Appoints Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications

Oklahoma City, OK – October 7, 2009 – AGC Aerospace & Defense announced that Jennyfer Guebert has joined the firm as the Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications.

Guebert, who will be based out of the company headquarters in Midwest City, OK, will support all operating companies under the AGC Aerospace & Defense umbrella.

"We are pleased that Jennyfer has joined the AGC Aerospace & Defense team.    As we've grown our portfolio, aligning our operating companies to ensure a strong brand and consistent message has become more important. Jennyfer's professional experience and educational background make her the right person to drive this effort," said Jeff Davis, Managing Director of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

Guebert comes to AGC Aerospace & Defense from L-3 Integrated Systems where she held various roles within the Business Development organization, most recently as the lead for competitive intelligence activities. Guebert’s professional experience also includes seven years as a communications consultant for a global consulting company.   Guebert has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin, McCombs School of Business.

AGC Aerospace and 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 and Defense finances, engineers, manufactures, procures, repairs, modifies and overhauls aircraft components, subassemblies and systems.

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.

The ServiCenter Launches Customer Loyalty Program for Aviators

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

OKLAHOMA CITY – The ServiCenter today celebrated the launch of its Customer Loyalty and Community Partners Program with a luncheon at Wiley Post Airport. As part of the Loyalty Program, customers who purchase aircraft fuel and maintenance services at The ServiCenter are eligible to receive cash gift cards, which can be used at the owner’s discretion or donated to one of five local charities in the company’s Community Partners Program: YMCA of Oklahoma City, The Boys and Girls Club, Allied Arts, United Way and Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma.

“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.

The ServiCenter, Inc. Announces Appointment of Corporate Controller

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Oklahoma City, OK - The ServiCenter - Part of AGC Aerospace & Defense announced today that Tom Meuneir has been appointed to the position of Controller in Oklahoma City.

“We are pleased that Tom has joined us at The ServiCenter,” said Jeff Morton, Executive Vice President and CFO for the AGC Integrated Defense Group. “His broad financial accounting experiences, particularly as it relates to Federal acquisition and accounting regulations within a variety of related industries, particularly aerospace and defense, will allow Tom to have a significant and immediate impact upon the The ServiCenter and its growing businesses.”

Before joining The ServiCenter, Meuneir had extensive finance, budgeting, cost accounting, pricing, and government compliance with L-3 Communications. Mr. Meuneir is a long-time resident of Oklahoma and earned his accounting degree from the University of Central Oklahoma.

The ServiCenter, Inc., based in Oklahoma City, is a full service aircraft maintenance, modification, inspection, avionics, paint, and interior facility specializing in light and medium turboprop and jet powered aircraft. AGC Aerospace & Defense is the operating brand for portfolio companies that are owned, controlled or managed by Acorn Growth Companies based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, operating companies across the United States with operations worldwide—all under its primary banner, AGC Aerospace & Defense.

Aerospace Innovator Nominations Sought

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Oklahoma City, OK - Acorn Growth Companies, LC has announced that it is seeking nominations for the 3rd Annual Seeds of Greatness Award, which recognizes innovation in the aviation and aerospace industry.

"We believe the award winner should be who best embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation that is so important in sustaining the aerospace industry in Oklahoma for years to come", said Jeff Davis, Partner of Acorn Growth Companies,

The Seeds of Greatness Award recognizes individuals and teams within companies and government agencies within the aerospace industry who demonstrate how to create meaningful and sustainable economic prosperity from a mere inspiration. Winners of past awards include: The Tulsa Technology Center, GAMI, Inc., First Wave Aviation and the Greater Oklahoma City Commerce and Oklahoma County.

Winning innovators will be announced at a special ceremony during the Oklahoma Aerospace Summit on June 16, 2009 in Tulsa, OK.

For more information and nomination forms, please visit the Acorn Growth Companies website at www.acorngrowthcompanies.com or AGC Aerospace & Defense website at www.AGCAerospace.com. Self-nominations are encouraged.

Acorn Growth Companies, based in Oklahoma City 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.

Contact:
Colette Carlisle
405-361-6411

Acorn Growth Companies Announces Launch of AGC Aerospace & Defense

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Private equity firm Acorn Growth Companies announced today the formation and launch of AGC Aerospace and Defense as the operating brand for portfolio companies that it manages.

"We have successfully developed a strong and diverse enterprise, within the aerospace and defense sector, that includes operations in eleven states serving a global market", said Jeff Davis, a partner in Acorn Growth Companies. "The establishment of AGC Aerospace and Defense provides the opportunity to showcase the enormous capabilities of the enterprise in a unified manner," he said.

"AGC Aerospace and Defense, through its business units, is actively supporting the war fighter in many key mission critical areas," said Rick Nagel, also a partner in Acorn Growth Companies. "From military conversions, to intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and from legacy aircraft support to manufacturing critical components and structures for weapons systems, AGC Aerospace and Defense and its employees are pleased to play an important role in the global industry," he said.

The combined capabilities of the enterprise include over 400,000 square feet of aerospace manufacturing, modification and hangar space, the highest level of quality ratings, including NADCAP and AS9100, OEM certifications and decades of excellent performance.

The companies of AGC Aerospace & Defense serve most military and commercial aircraft platforms including the Blackhawk, Kiowa and Chinook helicopters and military aircraft such as the KC-135, C-17, KC-10, F22, F18 and F35 Joint Strike Fighter. Supported commercial platforms include the Boeing 787, 737, 747, 777, Beech, Gulf Stream, Twin Commander, Cessna and many others. Customers include governments, prime contractors, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Tier II and Tier III aerospace suppliers.

AGC Aerospace & Defense is organized into four distinct operating groups that include: AGC Integrated Defense Group, AGC Composites Group, AGC Services Group, and AGC Finance Group. The companies in these operating groups include: Unitech Composites, Inc, Integrated Composites, Inc, Commuter Air Technology, The ServiCenter, Veracity Technology Solutions, Aerospace Products SE, Longbow Government Solutions, SensorCorr, SinglePoint and Aircraft Logistics Group.

Commuter Air Technology (CAT) Completes Third Generation STALKER Aircraft

Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Oklahoma City - Commuter Air Technology (CAT) completed ground and flight tests of its third generation STALKER aircraft. Earlier generations of the STALKER, a King Air based Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) system have been successfully deployed with Joint Special Operations Forces engaged in the Global War on Terror and with Special Operations Forces (SOF) units deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

In addition to the popular, SOF operator designed cockpit and mission system operator station(s), the latest version of the Stalker has a ruggedized, custom interior, a more capable communications suite than previous models, and comes with the WESCAM MX-15HD and Aerocomputer's^TM moving map system as standard equipment. "Our best yet" says Darryl Wilkerson, CAT's president and CEO. "We are excited about the new STALKER and what it brings to the fight." he added.

CAT has a strong legacy of providing system design and integration of special mission platforms and specializes in the preferred King Air platform.
"We are proud that the dedicated employees and partners of CAT have not only designed and produced the leading ISR solution for this class, but we have accomplished it with incredible speed and efficiency," said Wilkerson. "We operate on an "order plus 120 days" delivery schedule. Our ability to produce at this level means that these highly valued assets are in the hands of the war fighter sooner and thus making a greater impact."

The deployment of ISR assets into the theater of war has been a top priority of Department of Defense Secretary Robert Gates since early 2008 and led to the funding of over $1 billion for the effort.

CAT, situated within the Integrated Defense Business Unit of AGC Aerospace & Defense, is focused on aircraft modifications, which include performance and flight enhancements, commuter and high-density passenger systems, corporate configurations, cargo conversions and a full range of highly specialized military and special mission air operations and support.

AGC Aerospace and Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs.

Aerospace Products SE Adds Aerospace Business Development Veteran, Opens Oklahoma Office

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Aerospace Products SE (APSE) announced today that Doug Almgren has been appointed to the position of Vice President of Business Development for the firm.

Almgren will be based in the company's newly established Oklahoma City office and support the firm's growing aerospace business. "We are pleased to welcome Doug to our team. He has a proven track record of success in business development and is well suited to help APSE achieve its business objectives," said Tracy Wimberly, president of APSE.

APSE is known for its ability to procure "hard to find" parts for military and commercial platforms. The firm specializes in legacy military platforms such as the KC-135, C-17 and the KC-10.

APSE also provides on-site supply chain Integration services, inventory bin management, and kitting services to complement its extensive array of value-added capabilities.

Prior to joining APSE, Almgren was the Oklahoma City Site Lead for BearingPoint Consulting. He oversaw several of the firm's defense-focused initiatives designed to improve operational efficiencies within key Air Force weapons systems program offices. Doug is a retired USAF Major with 21 years active duty; 17 of which were dedicated to the Logistics.

APSE is owned jointly by Cherokee Nation Businesses, a wholly owned affiliate of the Cherokee Nation, and Acorn Growth Companies an Oklahoma based private equity firm that specializes in the aerospace and defense sector.

For more information visit APSE on the web at www.APSEInc.com.

Acorn Growth Companies Completes Acquisition of Aerospace Composites Firm

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0500

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK, April 1, 2009 - Acorn Growth Companies has announced the acquisition of California-based Integrated Composites, Inc. The company is a leading manufacturer of advanced composite aircraft components and structures.

"Integrated Composites is an industry leader in its niche and has developed an outstanding reputation for engineering excellence, quality and on-time delivery," said Rick Nagel, Partner in Acorn Growth Companies. "We are excited about Integrated Composite's future and look forward to strengthening its position as a value-added aerospace engineering, design, and component manufacturer."

Joe Johnson, a company founder, will continue to serve as the President of Integrated Composites. "I look forward to working with Acorn Growth Companies as we work cooperatively to advance Integrated Composites to the next level of growth and development," Johnson said.

Integrated Composites will become an operating company of AGC Aerospace & Defense, which is an operating group of Acorn Growth Companies.

"Joe Johnson is passionate about serving Integrated Composite's customers, overseeing its growth and nurturing its employees. We are very pleased that he will continue to lead the company," said Al Haase, Chief Executive Officer of the Composite Business Unit of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

Peninsula Capital, Detroit Michigan, provided mezzanine debt financing for the acquisition.

"This was a complex transaction made all the more challenging by the current economic climate ", said Nagel. "We are very appreciative of the efforts of Peninsula Capital and its shared vision of our aerospace composites acquisition strategy."

Integrated Composites supports numerous key commercial and military aircraft programs with advanced designs for both primary and secondary structures on a variety of fixed and rotary wing aircraft.

Acorn Growth Companies, based in Oklahoma City 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. www.agcaerospace.com

Commuter Air Technology Names US Navy Veteran to Post

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Oklahoma City, OK. - Commuter Air Technology (CAT), a unit of AGC Aerospace & Defense, announced today the selection of Gary Ambrose as Vice President of Operations. Ambrose will oversee all programs, field sites, and personnel engaged in direct support of CAT's customers around the globe.

"Gary has a comprehensive background in aviation and special operations which has prepared him well for the challenges he will face in his new role at CAT" said Darryl Wilkerson, CAT's president and CEO. "Gary comes to CAT following a distinguished career in the US Navy and brings the operational, strategic planning and organizational leadership skills needed to oversee our highly complex operations group," Wilkerson added.

Ambrose joined CAT in 2008 with 24 Years of military experience in airborne Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), and Special Mission Systems program development, management and employment. He is a graduate of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University with a MS in Aviation Management and the US Marine Corps University with a MS in Military Studies.

CAT, situated within the Integrated Defense Business Unit of AGC Aerospace & Defense, is focused on aircraft modifications, which include performance and flight enhancements, commuter and high-density passenger systems, corporate configurations, cargo conversions and a full range of highly specialized military and special mission air operations and support.

AGC Aerospace and Defense is a leader in supplying technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs.