“I’m pleased to join the AGC family of companies,” commented Mr. Hundley. “The AGC group has a great growth strategy planned for its Composites Group, and for its expanding Aerospace & Defense portfolio.  I look forward to leading Unitech Composites and Structures in this exciting time in the aerospace industry.”
 
Prior to joining Unitech Composites & Structures, Mr. Hundley held senior leadership positions with aerospace and defense corporations such as Safran, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics and M7 Aerospace. Most recently Mr. Hundley was President and COO for A&T Systems, Inc.  Mr. Hundley holds Master of Business Administration and BS degrees, and has completed senior leadership and lean enterprise programs at the Lockheed Martin Institute, and Program Management at the General Dynamics Institute.

About Unitech Composites and Structures
Unitech designs and manufactures composite structures in commercial and military aerospace markets. 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.

About AGC Aerospace & Defense
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the unifying brand of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, is a global supplier of technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs.  Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.  AGC Aerospace & Defense is organized into four operating groups:  Composites, Finance, Integrated Defense, and Services.

About Veracity Technology Solutions
Veracity develops customized non-destructive inspection solutions for customers in the aerospace and defense and the power generation industries. Using proven, proprietary technology to check for potential defects, Veracity’s methodology helps customers extend the service life of high-value assets, lower inspection costs, and eliminate hazardous processes. Veracity operates within the Services Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

About AGC Aerospace & Defense
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the unifying brand of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, supplies technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs. Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

Hayden, Idaho – Unitech Composites and Structures, Inc. (Unitech), an AGC Aerospace & Defense company, has been awarded a contract to design and produce a next generation lightweight, composite overwrapped pressure vessel (COPV) for the US Army Portable Helicopter Oxygen Delivery System (PHODS).

“Unitech is honored to work with the Army on this new and improved composite overwrapped pressure vessel,” stated Alan Haase, President of Unitech and the AGC Composites Group.  “This next generation PHODS vessel will provide our soldier with longer oxygen delivery duration as well as a lighter weight vessel. Designing and manufacturing a high quality product that helps our military is extremely important to us.”

Unitech, using state of the art equipment and advanced composite materials will deliver a lighter and more capable vessel which will enhance the overall performance as compared to the first generation PHODS system.  The new COPV design is backward compatible, so it may be used with older, currently fielded pressure vessel systems.  This technology is also available and being evaluated for other platforms.

ABOUT UNITECH COMPOSITES AND STRUCTURES
Unitech designs and manufactures composite structures in commercial and military aerospace markets. 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.

ABOUT AGC AEROSPACE & DEFENSE
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the operating portfolio of aerospace and defense private equity group, Acorn Growth Companies, 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.

“As the award indicates, Valair is one of the fastest growing privately owned companies in the metro area,” commented Jeff Snyder, President of Valair. “We understand the responsibility we have to all of our stakeholders and work to exceed those expectations. Our employees enjoy the work that they do, so performing over and above is part of our character.”

To be eligible for the award, companies must be headquartered in the Oklahoma City metro area with more than one million dollars in operating revenue. The winners meet those requirements and exemplify creativity, an entrepreneurial spirit, and have experienced significant revenue growth.

A full-service aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility with a long history in Oklahoma, the company has experienced over 25 percent revenue growth in the last year.  Valair is the second AGC Aerospace & Defense company to receive a Metro 50 Award for exceptional growth in revenues and in creating high-value, high paying jobs, locally.

“We would be honored to receive this award under any circumstances. But, to exhibit the level of growth that the Metro 50 committee recognizes, in today's economic environment, is a feat with which we are doubly proud” stated Darryl Wilkerson, President of the AGC Integrated Defense group.  “This achievement directly impacts the health and vitality of our community. We congratulate all the Metro 50 Award winners.”

About Valair Aviation
Valair, an FAA Part 145 repair station, functions as a turnkey maintenance, repair, and overhaul company for private, public, and military aircraft. The company specializes in heavy maintenance, avionics, interiors, and painting and also serves as an FBO at the Wiley Post Airport in Oklahoma City, Okla. The company operates within the Integrated Defense Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

About AGC Aerospace & Defense
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the unifying brand of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, is a global supplier of technologies, systems, and services that support key commercial and military programs.  Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

CAT has developed numerous enhancements for the King Air fleet such as unique exhaust gas extractors (EGE’s) that improve fuel efficiency, Soft Touch Tires that not only enable remote area landings but also increases the tire life, CAT Cargo Pods which expand the carrying capacity of the aircraft, and CAT High Density Light Weight interiors which allow for alternate seating configurations.  All of these modifications are FAA certified.

About Commuter Air Technology
CAT focuses on delivery of certified aircraft and aircraft modifications, including performance and flight enhancements, commuter and high-density passenger systems, corporate reconfigurations, cargo conversions, and a full range of highly specialized military and special mission air operations and support. In addition to innovative performance enhancements, CAT’s services include consultation, pre-purchase inspection, engineering, and program management. CAT operates within the Integrated Defense Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

About AGC Aerospace & Defense
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the operating portfolio of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, is a global supplier of technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs. Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications. AGC Aerospace & Defense is organized into four operating groups:  Composites, Finance, Integrated Defense, and Services.

Gathright joined CAT in October 2010 as a line pilot and has since deployed to Afghanistan where he served as an Aircraft Commander and later as the Pilot Site Lead.  Prior to joining CAT, Gathright served in the United States Air Force for over 20 years amassing over 5,700 flight hours as an instructor and evaluator pilot.  Gathright served as the T-43 Program Manager at 19th Air Force Headquarters and was an Aircrew Standardization and Evaluation Team member, an integral part of Air Education and Training Command's Inspector General Team.  Gathright's flying resume includes the T-37, T-38, T-43, KC-135, Boeing 737, 757 and 767 aircraft. He is a graduate of the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science in Quantitative Analysis.

About Commuter Air Technology
CAT focuses on delivery of certified aircraft and aircraft modifications, including performance and flight enhancements, commuter and high-density passenger systems, corporate reconfigurations, cargo conversions, and a full range of highly specialized military and special mission air operations and support. In addition to innovative performance enhancements, CAT offers a range of services that include consultation, pre-purchase inspection, engineering, and program management. CAT operates within the Integrated Defense Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

About AGC Aerospace & Defense
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the operating portfolio of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, is a global supplier of technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs.  Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.  AGC Aerospace & Defense is organized into four operating groups:  Composites, Finance, Integrated Defense, and Services.

Iverson joined CAT in June 2010, as a Senior Program Manager and Chief Pilot. Prior to coming on board with CAT, Iverson served in the United States Navy with 14 years of experience in airborne ISR and Special Mission Systems programs, management, and employment. Iverson’s flying resume includes the T-34, T-44, P-3C, and C-130. He is a graduate of Oregon State University with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science.

About Commuter Air Technology
CAT focuses on delivery of certified aircraft and aircraft modifications, including performance and flight enhancements, commuter and high-density passenger systems, corporate reconfigurations, cargo conversions, and a full range of highly specialized military and special mission air operations and support. In addition to innovative performance enhancements, CAT offers a range of services that include consultation, pre-purchase inspection, engineering, and program management. CAT operates within the Integrated Defense Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

About AGC Aerospace & Defense
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the operating portfolio of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, is a global supplier of technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs. Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications. AGC Aerospace & Defense is organized into four operating groups:  Composites, Finance, Integrated Defense, and Services.

“The organic growth of our businesses as well as increased activity in acquisitions for the Composites Group has evolved to the point where a group CFO is required,” commented Al Haase, President of the Group. “Troy’s extensive background and mix of experience in aerospace and defense, manufacturing, and acquisitions is a perfect fit for our organization. We are pleased to welcome him to the AGC team.”

Mr. DePuma has over 25 years of experience in aerospace and defense and manufacturing. Mr. DePuma spent close to 20 years with the Textron companies, increasing his responsibilities in accounting and finance throughout his tenure. He was most recently vice president of finance for customer support and service at Textron’s, Bell Helicopter. Mr. DePuma’s experience also includes merger and acquisition due diligence and acquisition integration support.

Mr. DePuma is a certified public accountant and a Six Sigma Green Belt. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Texas at Arlington.

About the AGC Composites Group
The AGC Composites Group leverages the strengths of its design, engineering, development, and manufacturing capabilities from the separate companies working as part of one group. The Group provides innovative design services, quick turnaround tooling, as well as the ability to efficiently manufacture both low volume as well as high volume production at competitive rates.

About AGC Aerospace & Defense
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the operating portfolio of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, is a global supplier of technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs. Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications. AGC Aerospace & Defense is organized into four operating groups: Composites, Finance, Integrated Defense, and Services.

Oklahoma City, Okla. –  SinglePoint Aircraft Finance (SinglePoint), an AGC Aerospace & Defense company, recently completed a refinancing transaction on a 1977 Cessna ISP to commemorate the launch of its Aging Aircraft Finance program.

The age of the Cessna Citation proved to be a stumbling block when the Florida client approached its bank for financing.

“Many banks are reluctant to finance the purchase or even specific life-extending modifications of an older aircraft,” said Tim Wilson, President of SinglePoint.  “Despite seeing a thaw in what has been tough lending market, aircraft less than 10 years old receive precedent over older aircraft.  Although these older assets are perceived by banks as being higher risk credits, SinglePoint recognizes these planes have long useful lives and when properly maintained represent great value to their owners.”

With extensive experience in aircraft maintenance and modifications as well as complex financing expertise, SinglePoint’s team is in a unique position to both value older aircraft and provide workable funding solutions.

“Our expertise in aging aircraft and comfort with the useful life of these assets motivated SinglePoint to launch this product,” added Wilson.  “The loan we extended allowed the borrower to perform some deferred aircraft maintenance and return to flying.”

Even as the economy improves SinglePoint continues to field a steady flow of inquiries from both individuals and corporations seeking alternative financing strategies to traditional lending channels.

About SinglePoint Aircraft Finance
SinglePoint provides private financial services to both private and government aircraft customers with requirements that present challenges to the conventional financial services marketplace.  The company handles transactions from $1-$4 million for both fixed and rotor wing aircraft purchases and modifications.  SinglePoint operates as part of the AGC Aerospace & Defense Finance Group.

About AGC Aerospace & Defense
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the operating portfolio of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, is a global supplier of technologies, systems and services that support key commercial and military programs.  Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.

The benefits of Veracity’s system were recently proven during a lifetime extension inspection of a power generation gas turbine wheel.  Veracity’s VTS 2400 was used to identify and quantify inclusions in the bore of the Stage 2 Turbine Wheel.  This indication was previously undetected or dismissed as non-relevant during the original manufacturer’s acceptance inspection.  After detecting the discrepancy, the engineering authority was able to model the indication and determine the operational limits of the component. 

“We were able to save our customer over $200,000 in component replacement costs as well as the need to replace the entire turbine,” stated Kevin McKinley, Veracity’s Vice President of Operations.  “And, the data provided the customer with an accurate analysis to mitigate the risk for continued operation.”

Veracity’s system allows technicians to identify indications through imaging capabilities and to quantify those indications with direct measurements as well as through conventional amplitude sizing.  With these added capabilities, companies can identify and size indications that were previously undetectable.  Veracity’s system increases the probability of detection while minimizing false calls.

“The multiple data capture methods, coupled with the fidelity of the medical grade imaging, allows operators to provide engineers with enhanced information for determining the operational capabilities of the components,” McKinley commented.

About Veracity Technology Solutions
Veracity develops customized nondestructive inspection solutions for customers in the aerospace and defense and the power generation industries.  Using proven, proprietary technology to check for potential defects, Veracity’s methodology helps customers extend the service life of high-value assets, lower inspection costs, and eliminate hazardous processes.  Veracity operates within the Services Group of AGC Aerospace & Defense.

About AGC Aerospace & Defense
AGC Aerospace & Defense, the unifying brand of private equity group Acorn Growth Companies, supplies technologies, systems, and services that support key commercial and military programs.  Capabilities within the AGC Aerospace & Defense portfolio range from financing, engineering, and integration services to manufacturing, logistics, and aircraft modifications.