Post-9/11 Buildup Added Billions To Maryland's Economy

New opportunities for businesses from war on terror

General Physics Corp. had already built a strong business training police and fire departments in the use of emergency equipment.

But after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, the doors of opportunity opened even wider.

The attacks focused officials at all levels of government on homeland security, and federal money to support it become plentiful. Protecting against terrorist attacks became a high priority for municipalities and federal grants to support the effort became plentiful.

Business at Elkridge-based General Physics increased 400 percent in its homeland security division.

"There was an immediate spike," said Craig Seger, General Physics' vice president of homeland security, environmental and technical services.
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