DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX, Feb 18, 2025 – Coltala Holdings has announced the creation of Coltala Aerospace, a transformative platform dedicated to advancing America’s aerospace and defense industries. With the acquisition of Aeroparts Group (APG), that achieved growth last year of over 60%, Coltala displays its commitment to supporting businesses that are essential to America. This helps ensure safe air travel and strengthens national defense.
Through its acquisition of APG, Coltala Aerospace now comprises three industry-leading businesses: Evans Composites, APM and ACD Consulting. The companies serve both commercial and military aerospace sectors, providing precision machining, Part 145 MRO repair station services and engineering expertise that align with Coltala’s mission to strengthen infrastructure through essential service companies.
A Unique Partnership with Extraordinary Leaders
Coltala Aerospace is managed by Dale Gabel, the CEO of APG, and Ricky Armstrong, the Founder and COO. Their leadership has resulted in significant growth. Coltala collaborated closely with the APG management team for four months before finalizing the acquisition. The effort helped build a robust partnership and ensure both teams were aligned. Their proactive approach prepared APG for regular growth and a smooth transition, allowing it to continue serving key commercial airlines and military platforms worldwide.
“In an era where national security and supply chain reliability are more critical than ever, Coltala Aerospace is well positioned to meet these challenges and turn them into opportunity,” said Edward Crawford, Navy and Afghan Veteran, co-founder and co-CEO of Coltala Holdings. “We are building a platform with great leaders like Dale and Ricky that support the aerospace and defense industries while creating opportunities for veterans and strengthening America’s position in the global market.”
Ralph Manning, co-founder and co-CEO of Coltala Holdings, noted, “We partnered with APG because of Dale and Ricky’s exceptional leadership and their team’s dedication to operational excellence and innovation. Their relentless focus drove impressive year over year growth of over 60% last year. Coltala’s enterprise system will unlock even greater potential.”
Strategic Vision for Aerospace Growth in DFW
Coltala recognizes the Dallas-Fort Worth area as a vital hub for aerospace and defense. By investing in Coltala Aerospace, the company fosters regional innovation and growth, reinforcing DFW’s legacy as a cornerstone of the American aerospace and defense industry.
Modelled after successful platforms like Heico in Florida, APG unites industry-leading companies under a shared vision to advance aerospace and defense. With decades of experience and strong relationships with defense contractors, commercial aerospace leaders, and military stakeholders, Coltala and APG are well-positioned to make a lasting impact.
Dale Gabel, CEO of Coltala Aerospace, shared, “Coltala’s partnership brings fresh energy and resources to our team. Their values align perfectly with ours, and together, we will deliver exceptional results to our commercial and defense customers.”
Ricky Armstrong, Founder and COO of Coltala Aerospace, added, “This partnership represents a new chapter for APG. Coltala’s collaborative approach has already proven its value, and we’re excited to contribute to an industry vital to America’s future.”
Coltala partnered with Thornburg Bow River Advisors, including managing director and head of private credit Aaron Arnett and vice president Daniel Parks, who bring incredible resources and flexible capital solutions. “Dale, Ricky and the APG team have laid the groundwork for an extraordinary platform, providing meaningful contributions to the aerospace and defense industries. We are excited to support their next growth phase alongside Coltala,” Aaron added. Coltala also partnered with Dustin Gibson and Hayden Greenbauer of Sunflower Bank, who supported financing the transaction.
The acquisition marks a significant step in Coltala’s mission to build enduring businesses that change industries. Coltala Aerospace is supporting America’s aerospace and defense sectors, and a future is being shaped where innovation and purpose drive success for the nation.
Source: Coltola Holdings
About Coltala Holdings
Founded in 2017, Coltala Holdings is a private equity firm headquartered in Fort Worth, TX, with an additional office in Dallas. The firm specializes in acquiring majority ownership in stable U.S. businesses across healthcare, manufacturing, and business services. Coltala Holdings is committed to partnering with founder- and family-owned companies, particularly in Texas, focusing on essential services, including real estate, aerospace, and home health. The firm’s portfolio includes companies like Choice Health at Home, Paschal and Pond, and Robinson & Associates, reflecting its diverse investment interests. Coltala has deployed over $300 million in flexible capital into mission-driven companies to accelerate growth and enhance operational performance.
About Coltola Aerospace
Coltala Holdings, a private equity firm founded in 2017 and headquartered in Fort Worth, TX, has launched Coltala Aerospace, a new platform dedicated to advancing the U.S. aerospace and defense industries. The initiative follows the acquisition of Aerospace Products Group (APG), a company that provides essential components and services to the aerospace sector. Coltala Holdings focuses on acquiring founder- and family-owned businesses in Texas, emphasizing essential services in real estate, aerospace, and home health sectors.
