# Ohio Forms Steering Group for U.S. Space Academy Application

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has established a dedicated steering group led by Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik to coordinate the state's application to host the U.S. Space Academy. This initiative responds directly to NASA's Request for Information, with a firm application deadline of October 26, 2026. The steering group aims to leverage Ohio's significant aerospace infrastructure, including Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton and NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, to position the state as the prime candidate for hosting the academy.

- The formation of this steering group signals a coordinated state-level procurement and development effort to secure a major federal aerospace education and training facility.
- Procurement professionals should note the strategic involvement of multiple state agencies and aerospace stakeholders, indicating potential subcontracting and partnership opportunities.
- Contractors with expertise in aerospace, defense, educational facility development, and related professional services may find emerging opportunities linked to this application and potential future contracts.
- The October 26, 2026 deadline is critical for proposal submissions, emphasizing the need for timely engagement and alignment with Ohio's application strategy.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Education
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 24, 2026

### Government Entities
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
- Ohio Department of Development
- Ohio Department of Higher Education
- Jobs Ohio
- Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

### Key Quotes
> Because of their leadership role in Air and Space and their critical proximity, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Glenn Research Center make Ohio the ideal location for the U.S. Space Academy.
> — Mike DeWine, Governor of Ohio

### Sources
- [Governor DeWine Forms Steering Group for Ohio Application for U.S. Space Academy | Governor Mike DeWine](https://governor.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/governor/media/news-and-media/governor-dewine-forms-steering-group-for-ohio-application-for-us-space-academy) - OH