GSA WEBINAR SERIES 

BUILDING SPACE-READY COMMUNITIES

Planning, Partnerships, and the Future Space Economy

Date: Oct 28, 2026
Time: 12:00 Eastern

As the commercial space industry continues to expand, airports and communities are increasingly evaluating opportunities to participate in the emerging space economy. Whether developing new spaceport facilities or exploring the transition of existing airports into spaceports, long-term success depends on thoughtful planning and strong community partnerships.

This Global Spaceport Alliance webinar will examine the intersection of spaceport development and community planning, highlighting the importance of early engagement, meaningful outreach, and collaboration with local stakeholders. Join spaceport and planning experts as they discuss strategies for preparing communities for future growth while balancing land use compatibility, infrastructure needs, environmental considerations, quality of life, and community priorities. Learn how proactive planning can help communities and aviation facilities navigate the opportunities and challenges associated with the next generation of aerospace development.

Panel:

• Maranda Thompson, Planning Department Manager, Aviation Services, Mead & Hunt – Moderator
• Lisa Harmon, Aviation and Environmental Planner, Mead & Hunt 
• Jeff Kloska, A.A.E, Director, Colorado Air and Space Port
• Dr. David Smith, CEO and General Manager, Mojave Air and Space Por
  
• Derek Nolek, PE, LEED AP, National Practice Leader – GSE Engineering, BRPH
• Craig Murphy, Kern County (invited)