Ron Ahlstrom has joined the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corporation (EDC) as its Unmanned and Autonomous (UAS) sector developer.
Ahlstrom will execute strategies to support primary sector business recruitment and expansion in the Grand Forks, N.D. region in the aerospace sector, primarily focused on unmanned and autonomous systems and associated technology development. He will lead EDC initiatives to foster collaboration among industry partners and provide resources and expertise to engage with stakeholders and capitalize on new opportunities for industry development.
“I am extremely humbled to be part of the EDC’s mission to develop and grow economic opportunities in the Grand Forks region. After retiring from the Air Force, I wanted to work for a company that was dedicated to building a strong community focused on collaboration and innovation. I have been blessed to find that opportunity realized with the Grand Forks EDC. Although my family and I have not lived in North Dakota for long, we are excited to call Grand Forks our home,” said Ahlstrom.
EDC President & CEO Keith Lund said, “We are very excited to welcome Ron to the EDC. His background in the Air Force, leadership skills, and passion for the UAS sector will allow him to easily adapt to his role and have an immediate impact on expanding UAS sector and associated technology business in the region.”
Ahlstrom recently retired from the U.S. Airforce after 26 years as an aircraft and logistics supply chain manager. During that time, he worked with multiple countries on behalf of the U.S. government to establish and develop partnerships in Africa, Europe, Central America, Japan, and the Middle East. Ahlstrom is originally from Colorado Springs, Colorado.