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WMI Acquires Cloud Instrumentation Firm SPEC
By: Sarah Rose
Caption: Acquisition enhances WMI’s airborne atmospheric research capabilities
Word Count: 227
Weather Modification International (WMI) has acquired SPEC, a Boulder, Colorado-based firm known for its airborne cloud physics instruments and atmospheric research expertise. SPEC’s proprietary cloud particle probes have been widely used in NASA missions and global scientific studies for more than 50 years.
“This is a natural and exciting alignment,” said WMI chairman Pat Sweeney “SPEC has built a remarkable reputation in atmospheric instrumentation and research. Their specialized knowledge supports WMI’s mission to deepen our understanding of the atmosphere and deliver solutions that have real-world environmental impact, and we’re thrilled to welcome their team into our growing ecosystem of innovation.”
“We’ve enjoyed a long-standing relationship with WMI, and this alignment offers a natural path for growth for both companies,” said SPEC founder Paul Lawson. “It opens new opportunities to expand our impact in the international atmospheric research arena.”
As part of the transition, Don DeBlasio has been appointed general manager to lead operations at SPEC’s Boulder facility. WMI plans to invest in infrastructure, engineering, and production capacity while supporting the existing team.
This acquisition further strengthens WMI’s vertically integrated group of companies, including Fargo Jet Center, Premier Jet Center, Ice Crystal Engineering, and Exclusive Aircraft Sales. Together, they enhance WMI’s capabilities in cloud seeding, airborne atmospheric measurement, and specialized aircraft services.