Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (AIAM) to host two days of aerospace engagement in Grand Rapids, Sept. 7 & 8.
On September 7 & 8, 2022, the Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (AIAM) hosts AeroOne, its inaugural event bringing together aerospace original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), suppliers, and thought leaders to present an in-depth look at the current state of the supply chain. Venue for the conference and business showcase is the JW Marriott Grand Rapids.
The extensive agenda includes outlook sessions on the OEM Supply Chain, Advanced Air Mobility, Aero Engines, Tier 1 and Sub-Tier Suppliers, plus panel discussions on aerospace clusters and achieving zero-carbon emissions The three dozen speakers represent OEMs, aero engine manufacturers, tier suppliers, financial advisors, consulting firms, engineering companies, and educational institutions. Among the organizations represented are: AeroDynamic Advisory, Aeromed Group, Airbus, AlixPartners, AVWORKS Partners, Bank of America Securities, Boeing, Brian Foley Associates, Charles Edwards Management Consulting, Counterpoint Market Intelligence, Eaton, Electra Aero, Fairmont Consulting Group, GE Aviation, Janes Capital Partners, Joby Aviation, Liebherr-Aerospace & Transportation, Lockheed Martin Rotary & Mission Systems, Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC), NASA, Novaria Group, Oliver Wyman, Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance, Perryman Co., Pratt & Whitney, RBC Capital Markets, RCO Engineering, Regent, Spirit AeroSystems, University of Michigan, Weldaloy Specialty Forgings, and Woodward.
Tony Vernaci, President, Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (AIAM), describes what attendees can expect.
Aerospace Manufacturing & Design (AM&D): What’s the origin of the Rise Higher theme?
Tony Vernaci (TV): The industry has had some significant challenges during COVID-19, but it’s coming back, rising above pre-COVID levels and forecasts, rising higher.
AM&D: How did you select the topics?
TV: We’ve had this event in the works for at least three years, then COVID came along and derailed our plans a bit. It’s a collaboration across the AIAM board to talk about what the group’s members are seeing that’s challenging the industry, and how does that affect their supply base? This discussion is critical for the industry to be successful going forward.
AM&D: Why is it important to offer this event?
TV: We don’t have an airframer here in Michigan, but most of our companies are supplying either to the aircraft manufacturers or to Tier 1s. Our purpose is to elevate awareness of the 1,000 Michigan companies involved in the aerospace industry today. They’re a rather unknown asset because the state’s so well known for automotive that people don’t think about aerospace, but there are so many synergies between aerospace and automotive.
TV: We’ll have thought leaders of the industry from the airframers on down to answer: What are the post-COVID challenges? How does the industry’s supply chain get back on its feet? Where are the opportunities? What are the challenges?
A significant group of individuals are going to be here, so if you’re seeking opportunities to get into the industry or trying to understand what these companies are looking for in suppliers, this event is for you. If you’re already in the industry but want to expand your business portfolio, then this event is also for you.
AM&D: Who is participating in the Two-Day Business Showcase?
TV: We saw this event as a great opportunity for some of our members to present themselves to the industry, showcase what they do, and put their best foot forward. We’ll have 26 exhibit tables in a high-traffic area just outside of the speakers’ area. A wide range of the supply chain is represented: castings, drone technology, aircraft seating, a college of aerospace engineering, software.
AM&D: How does one attend?
TV: First, register on our website and plan your agenda. You can fly into Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) as well as Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). Hotel and other information can be found on the website.
When: September 7, 2022 (8am to 7pm) and September 8, 2022 (7:30am to 3:15pm)
Where: JW Marriott Grand Rapids, 235 Louis Street NW, Grand Rapids, USA, Michigan 49503, Tel: +1.616.242.1500; Attendees can also contact the hotel’s reservation department via phone at 877.901.6632.
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