Innovate: Lessons from down under — What Guam can learn from South Australia's success
published guampdn.com May 2, 2025
published guampdn.com May 2, 2025
Guam finds itself at a pivotal moment.
Our economy traditionally hinges on what many describe as a “two-legged stool:” tourism and military spending. For decades, the island has relied on the steady stream of visitors drawn to its natural beauty and culture, complemented by the significant economic impact of military investments—from construction projects and to the daily expenditures of service members stationed on the island.
Moving forward, there is a powerful opportunity to drive innovation, technology transfer, and strategic partnerships with local industries.
By integrating ship repair, aircraft maintenance and overhaul, advanced training programs, research collaborations, and cutting-edge logistical operations, Guam can position itself as an innovative, dynamic, multifaceted logistics center of excellence.
This expanded role would serve as a catalyst for broader economic diversification, harnessing investments as a proactive engine for sustainable growth and resilience in the face of global economic shifts.
Why is turning Guam into a 21st century logistics center of excellence important? The United States Indo-Pacific Command confronts a vast and complex operational landscape in the Pacific Theater. Robust logistics support and sustainable supply chains are paramount. The region’s expansive geography, characterized by island outposts and limited infrastructure, demands innovative logistic solutions that are both agile and resilient.
Additionally, the theatre command has a greater need for advanced digital tracking systems, predictive maintenance, and rapid deployment networks that ensure seamless movement of essential equipment, munitions, and personnel.
A clear and urgent need exists today for skilled workforce labor to support Indo-Pacom, its prime contractors, and sub-tier supply chain providers.
So what can Guam do? For example, Defence SA in South Australia used a proactive and unified strategy to foster innovation and economic growth driven by aerospace and defense.
In 2009, the South Australian government established Defence SA as a visionary agency designed to consolidate and propel the state’s defense and space sectors into a new era of economic dynamism. Initially charged with streamlining interactions among government bodies, industry leaders, and research institutions, Defence SA quickly set the stage for transformative growth.
The 2015 launch of the South Australia Defence Sector Strategy attracted more than $20 billion in defense investments and engaged more than 300 local small and medium-sized enterprises.
Initiatives such as the Premier’s Defence Industry Scholarships Program played a pivotal role in training thousands of engineers and technical professionals, contributing to the creation of more than 10,000 skilled jobs across advanced fields like naval shipbuilding, cyber security, and space technology.
Guam can learn from this successful model to drive economic development. Such a methodical and coordinated aerospace and defense public-private partnership could brand and market Guam (and greater Micronesia) as “open for business.”
Today, there are defense industry firms that want to come into Guam and set up operations. However, a lack of trained workforce, deficient infrastructure and a perceived non-business friendly environment serve as deterrents.
The Guam Additive Materials & Manufacturing Accelerator is a great example of an innovative and proactive initiative to build the workforce and technological capabilities.
However, more workforce development is needed, especially tailored to the following aerospace and defense trades:
Sheet metal, metals technology and welding (American Welding Society standards and NCCER)
Engineering (mechanical, manufacturing, electrical and software)
Maintenance repair and overhaul technicians (specifically basic diesel and heavy equipment maintenance techs eventually evolving into maintainers for ships, submarines, aircraft and other more complex weapon systems)
Crane operators and maintainers (Navy Crane Center P-307 and NCCER standards)
Cyber security, coding, software development and sustainment.
Workforce and skills development is not just about technology; it’s about transforming lives and reimagining our island’s future.
By leveraging local talent, fostering public-private partnerships, and inviting global investment, we can create a vibrant ecosystem where educational programs, geo-strategic military plans and logistics, defense industrial support, and entrepreneurial ventures come together seamlessly.
Guam now has the opportunity to pivot toward an advanced, tech-driven future. It is simple yet powerful: strike the first spark and create a wildfire of positive change.
By emphasizing education, workforce and skills development, Guam can overcome longstanding challenges and tap into the immense collective potential that lies within its community.
Robert Jackson is the president of The M.O.S.T. Services. He is a retired Air Force colonel with 27 years service. Jackson is experienced in acquisition, logistics, business development, quality and process improvement in the federal government and the private sector. You can contact him at rob.jackson@themostservices.com.