Coming on the heels of Secretary Ross’s announcement of a new initiative to support space commerce, space-focused professionals filled the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., on March 12th – 15th for the satellite industry’s annual meeting.

On Monday, the industry heard from Secretary Ross about his plans for elevating space commerce functions within the department, a key objective in the Department of Commerce’s recently released strategic plan for 2018-2022.

NTIA Assistant Secretary David Redl addressed the convention on Wednesday, pledging his commitment to collaborating with the U.S. satellite industry – highlighting the importance of maintaining global leadership for satellite-based services and manufacturing. He told attendees that the United States needs a vibrant satellite sector, which directly supports tens of thousands of family-sustaining jobs and indirectly enables millions more in the larger economy.

Fast-paced innovation in the satellite sector is paving the way for a new era in satellite coverage that will strengthen our nation’s broadband infrastructure and power advanced services to improve people’s lives. “The Commerce Department is invested in the health and success of all aspects of the satellite sector, from spacecraft design and manufacturing to earth-station equipment standards and manufacturing,” said Assistant Secretary Redl.