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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
Only a small fraction of the employees at Hill Air Force Base are military with the largest percentage, around 75 percent, as Utah civilians. As the military advances their aircraft, they've become more complex and are completely computerized, adding to Utah's selection of electrical engineering and computer science jobs.
As the third largest Air Force base in the U.S., this is a great example of job sustainability and job creation. Additionally, this base has a good-sized operation budget and supports local Utah businesses and vendors whenever possible. Their impact was huge in 2012 at over $3.3 billion.
As we acknowledge Veterans' Day and the dedication of those who serve to keep us from harm, it's important to recognize the impact of the Utah National Guard. We currently have 8500 members of the Utah National Guard, which had an economic impact of $317 million in 2012. Some of these guard members have been deployed multiple times in the last few years, but they also handle civil emergencies and natural disasters closer to home.
Utah has a population of over 150,000 veterans. These are brave men and women we need to take care of, especially in recognition of their service to us, as a nation and their willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice.
National defense is a significant source of Utah's economic activity. With Hill Air Force Base, the Utah National Guard, Camp Williams and Dugway Proving Ground, these are tremendous examples of an important contribution to our community.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
