From left, Aaron Starks and Matthew Croshaw are among leaders at 47G. (Courtesy 47G)
The 47G board of directors has announced that Aaron Starks will be transitioning from his role as president and CEO, effective Dec. 15.
Matthew Croshaw will assume the role of interim president and chief operating officer, beginning Dec. 16, while Starks will remain engaged in an advisory capacity to support a smooth leadership transition as the board conducts a search for a permanent successor.
Under Starks’ leadership, 47G has grown into a leading convener of Utah’s aerospace and defense ecosystem. Today, the organization brings together more than 200 investor companies, universities and public-sector partners around a shared mission: accelerating the growth of national security technology companies and strengthening the aerospace and defense industry. The sector accounts for approximately 20 percent of Utah’s economy.
47G has translated that mission into meaningful results. Through Project ALTA, launched in 2024 in partnership with the Governor’s Office, the Utah Department of Transportation and the Utah Inland Port Authority, 47G is helping advance Utah’s advanced air mobility ecosystem. In 2026, Utah was selected as a national testbed for next-generation aviation through uFLY, a UDOT-led, multi-state partnership working with the Federal Aviation Administration. 47G’s Zero Gravity Summit, Project ALTA Summit, Hard Tech Week and Aerospace & Defense Day on the Hill bring together the industry leaders, government officials, investors, researchers, and innovators shaping the future of aerospace, defense and hard tech.
“We are incredibly grateful to Aaron for the vision, leadership and dedication he has brought to 47G,” said Brad Wilson, chairman of the 47G board, in a release. “He has played an instrumental role in building an organization that brings together the people and partners shaping the future of aerospace, defense and hard tech. As we look ahead, our priority is to build on that foundation and identify the right leader to guide 47G through its next phase of growth.”
“I’m incredibly proud of what our members, partners and team have built together,” said Starks. “47G has grown into something much bigger than any one person, and I’m excited to see where the organization goes next. I’m committed to supporting Matthew Croshaw and helping ensure a smooth transition. I’ll always be cheering on this mission and the people who make it possible.”
During the transition, Croshaw will oversee 47G’s day-to-day operations, while Starks will provide advisory support until a permanent president and CEO is named. 47G’s leadership team will continue to lead its core programs and initiatives. All existing programs, partnerships and member services will continue without interruption.
“The transition comes as 47G continues to operate from a position of strength,” said Gregg Robison, vice chairman of the 47G board. “We are entering 2027 with record membership, growing national visibility, and strong support from our industry and state partners. The board is confident in the organization’s direction and committed to building on the momentum already underway.”
“47G’s members are doing work that matters for our national security and for Utah,” said Croshaw. “Our responsibility is to keep that momentum going, continue delivering value to our members and partners, and build on the strong foundation already in place. Our programs, partnerships and events will continue as planned.”
The board will conduct a search for a leader to guide 47G’s next phase of growth. Additional information about the search and application process will be shared in the coming weeks.
47G’s mission is to make Utah the nation’s premier ecosystem for aerospace, defense and hard tech companies. 47G convenes the industry; advocates for its interests; and promotes the companies and people advancing aerospace, defense, space and advanced air mobility.
