UFA, Inc., leading provider of air traffic and airport training solutions, has opened its newest office in Oklahoma City. The office is UFA’s seventh location worldwide and its third in the United States. It will house Oklahoma-based staff dedicated to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Air Force as well as an innovation center to showcase new technology.
The expansion of the global aviation safety company amplifies Oklahoma City’s robust aerospace sector, which includes more than 338 aerospace firms and employs more than 44,500 workers, according to the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber (https://www.greateroklahomacity.com/industries/aviation-and-aerospace/).
“More and more leading aerospace and defense companies are choosing to establish and expand operations in Oklahoma City,” said Leshia Pearson, Director of ACES/Aerospace and Defense at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. “Every day, we hear from businesses of all sizes that recognize the value of the innovation ecosystem we are building and the strategic advantages Oklahoma offers for growth and long-term success.”
The new UFA offices will be located in Oklahoma City’s BancFirst Tower, the second tallest building in the city, which is set at the center of Oklahoma’s $44 billion aerospace industry. The newly renovated space will provide staff offices with ample room to grow.
“As our company grows, now supporting air traffic management and airport safety in 21 countries around the world, we know we have to be part of the powerful network of aerospace expertise and innovation in Oklahoma City,” said David Wolff, CEO of UFA, Inc. “We’re thrilled to work with local businesses and legislators here to advance the future of aviation.”
UFA’s industry-leading simulators and voice recognition software are integral to training air traffic controllers at aviation training and research programs across the United States, including the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Air Force, the FAA, and multiple Enhanced Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative programs such as Angelo State University, Vaughn College, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
“Oklahoma City is a cornerstone of the aviation industry,” said Teri Bristol, former Chief Operating Officer of the FAA and current UFA board member. “UFA’s presence alongside many of the nation’s leading aviation training organizations reinforces its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and advancing aviation excellence.”
Dale Drake, UFA’s Vice President of Business Development and former Chief of U.S. Air Force Air Traffic Control Training and Operations, will lead the new office.
“Oklahoma City is my hometown, and it’s a central hub for aviation and aerospace innovation,” said Drake. “I’m excited to contribute to the community, better serve our customers, and connect with potential partners in the area.”
